« All Events

The Open Championship 2026

July 16, 2026 – July 19, 2026 BST

1st Hole, Royal Birkdale

The Open Championship 2026, often referred to as the British Open, is the oldest and one of the most prestigious golf tournaments in the world. Organized by The R&A, it is the only major championship played outside the United States and is celebrated for its rich history, iconic links courses, and often unpredictable weather conditions. In 2026, The Open will return to the magnificent Royal Birkdale Golf Club in Southport, England, for the 11th time, promising another thrilling chapter in golf’s storied history. This guide provides essential information for planning your visit to this historic event.

Tournament Overview

  • Event: The 154th Open Championship
  • Governing Body: The R&A (Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews)
  • Established: 1860
  • Frequency: Annually
  • Dates: July 12-19, 2026 (Practice days: July 13-15; Tournament days: July 16-19)
  • Venue: Royal Birkdale Golf Club, Southport, Merseyside, England
  • Format: 72 holes of stroke play (four rounds over four days).
  • Field Size: 156 players.
  • Cut: After 36 holes, the top 70 players (and ties) advance to the final two rounds.
  • Playoff: If there is a tie for the lead after 72 holes, a four-hole aggregate playoff is held. If still tied, sudden-death ensues.
  • Prize Money: One of golf’s most lucrative majors, with a significant purse (e.g., $17 million in 2023).

History & Significance

The Open Championship holds a unique place in golf’s heritage, being the sport’s original major. It is defined by its commitment to links golf – courses shaped by nature, featuring undulating fairways, deep pot bunkers, and the ever-present challenge of coastal winds. Winning the Claret Jug, the championship’s iconic trophy, is considered one of golf’s greatest achievements. Royal Birkdale, with its distinctive dunes and challenging layout, has contributed significantly to The Open’s legacy, hosting many memorable moments and champions.

Royal Birkdale’s Open History:

Royal Birkdale has hosted The Open Championship 10 times previously, with 2026 marking its 11th hosting. Past champions at Royal Birkdale include:

  • 1954: Peter Thomson
  • 1961: Arnold Palmer
  • 1971: Lee Trevino
  • 1976: Johnny Miller
  • 1983: Tom Watson
  • 1991: Ian Baker-Finch
  • 1998: Mark O’Meara
  • 2008: Pádraig Harrington
  • 2017: Jordan Spieth

Qualification

The field for The Open Championship is comprised of both exempt players and those who earn their spot through qualifying.

  • Exemptions: A significant portion of the field consists of players who are exempt based on various criteria, including past Open champions (up to age 60), winners of other major championships, top finishers in previous Opens, high positions in the Official World Golf Ranking, and winners of specific professional tournaments worldwide.
  • Open Qualifying Series (OQS): A series of tournaments held globally where leading players, not already exempt, can earn a spot in The Open.
  • Final Qualifying: The final stage of qualification, where professional and amateur golfers compete in 36-hole events at various courses in the UK to secure the remaining spots in the field.

Planning Your Visit to The Open Championship 2026: Travel, Tickets & Accommodation

Attending The Open Championship at Royal Birkdale is an extraordinary experience. Due to its popularity, careful advance planning for travel, tickets, and lodging is crucial.

How to Get to The Open Championship 2026

Royal Birkdale Golf Club is located on the Northwest coast of England, near Southport.

  • 1. By Air:
  • 2. By Rail:
    • The most convenient public transport option. Merseyrail trains run frequently (every 15 minutes) from Liverpool Central to Southport.
    • The nearest station to Royal Birkdale is Hillside Station, which is approximately a 5-minute walk from the club.
    • For those traveling from further afield in the UK, mainline train services connect to Liverpool Lime Street or Manchester Piccadilly, from where you can connect to Merseyrail.
  • 3. By Car & Parking:
    • Royal Birkdale is easily accessible via the A565.
    • For The Open Championship, official off-site spectator parking with complimentary shuttle services will be organized by The R&A. On-site parking at the course is typically not available to the general public. Always check the Official Open Championship Website for specific parking arrangements and shuttle schedules closer to the event.
    • Traffic: Expect significant traffic congestion on roads leading to and within the Southport area during tournament week. Plan for extra travel time.
  • 4. By Bus:
    • Local bus services also operate in the Southport area, with stops near Royal Birkdale.

Tickets & Hospitality for The Open Championship 2026

Tickets for The Open Championship are highly sought after and are typically allocated via a ballot system or through official providers.

  • Ticket Ballot: The primary method for securing general admission tickets for The Open is often through a public ballot, which usually opens many months in advance (e.g., a year prior). Registering for The R&A’s ‘The One Club’ can provide early access to ballot information.
  • General Ticket Types:
    • Daily Tickets: For specific tournament days (Thursday-Sunday).
    • Practice Day Tickets: For Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, offering a more relaxed atmosphere and better opportunities to see players up close.
    • Weekly Passes: For access throughout the entire championship week.
  • Hospitality Packages: Premium hospitality options, offering guaranteed entry, exclusive viewing areas, gourmet dining, and other amenities, are available through official providers. These are ideal for a luxurious experience.
  • How to Purchase: Always purchase tickets directly from The R&A’s official website or their authorized ticket providers to ensure validity and avoid fraudulent sales.

Where to Stay for The Open Championship 2026

Accommodation in and around Southport fills up quickly for The Open. Early booking is paramount.

  • 1. Key Towns for Accommodation:
    • Southport: The closest major town, offering a good selection of hotels, guesthouses, and B&Bs. It provides a traditional British seaside resort experience with shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
    • Formby / Ainsdale: Nearby towns offering some accommodation options.
    • Liverpool: For those who prefer a larger city experience with more extensive dining, nightlife, and cultural attractions, Liverpool is approximately 45 minutes away by car or train.
  • 2. Accommodation Types:
    • Hotels: Various star ratings available, including well-known chains and independent hotels.
    • Guesthouses & B&Bs: Numerous charming, often family-run, options providing a more personal touch.
    • Self-Catering: Apartments or holiday homes can be found for longer stays or groups.
  • 3. Booking Tips:
    • Book Well in Advance: Accommodation for The Open will be in extremely high demand and will be booked solid many months in advance. Start your search and booking process as soon as your travel plans are firm.
    • Consider Transport: If staying further afield (e.g., Liverpool), factor in train schedules and travel time to the course.
    • Use Reputable Sites: Utilise well-known booking platforms like Expedia, Booking.com, and TripAdvisor to find and compare options.
TripAdvisor

Fan Experience / What to Expect

Attending The Open Championship at Royal Birkdale is an unforgettable experience, characterized by the unique atmosphere of links golf.

  • Walking & On-Course Navigation: Be prepared for significant walking across undulating terrain, especially among the dunes. Comfortable, waterproof footwear is essential. Event maps will be provided, detailing pathways, grandstands, and amenities. Strategic planning of your route can enhance your viewing.
  • The Weather: Links golf is synonymous with varied weather. Be prepared for anything from glorious sunshine to strong winds and rain, sometimes all in one day! Dressing in layers and bringing waterproof outerwear is highly recommended.
  • Best Viewing Spots: While specific prime spots vary by course setup, popular areas at Birkdale often include:
    • Around the distinctive Art Deco clubhouse overlooking the 18th green.
    • Elevated positions within the dunes for panoramic views of multiple holes.
    • Around the practice ground to watch players warm up.
  • Concessions & Merchandise: Numerous concession stands offering a variety of food and beverages, as well as large merchandise tents with official Open Championship apparel and souvenirs, will be available on-site.
  • Fan Zones & Activities: The Open often features interactive fan zones, historical displays, and sponsor activations, providing entertainment away from the golf action.
  • Prohibited Items: A strict list of prohibited items (e.g., large bags, outside food/beverage, folding chairs with pointed ends, drones) will be enforced. Check the official R&A spectator guide before arriving to ensure smooth entry.
  • Mobile Phone & Wi-Fi: Complimentary Wi-Fi may be offered in key fan gathering areas. While mobile phones are generally allowed for communication, strict etiquette regarding noise and photography around players is enforced.
  • Accessibility: The R&A provides accessibility services, including accessible parking, pathways, and viewing platforms. For specific needs, contact The R&A or refer to the event’s accessibility guide.

Helpful Links for Planning Your Open Championship 2026 Experience

For the most accurate and up-to-date information for your visit, always consult these resources:

Official Sites:

Official Social Media:

Travel & Booking Tools:

Royal Birkdale Golf Club

Southport, United Kingdom

Leave a Reply