Royal Birkdale Golf Club (Southport)

1st Hole, Royal Birkdale

Royal Birkdale Golf Club, established in 1889, stands as one of England’s most iconic and revered links courses. Located in Southport, Merseyside, on the stunning Northwest coast of England, it is consistently ranked among the top golf courses in the world. Renowned for its towering dunes, flat and fair fairways, and a clear view from each tee, Birkdale presents a classic links challenge that tests the game’s elite while offering an unforgettable experience for visitors. The club’s distinctive Art Deco clubhouse, built in the 1930s, overlooks the 18th green, providing a spectacular vantage point. Royal Birkdale earned its “Royal” status in 1951 and has since been a frequent and celebrated host of The Open Championship.

Major Championship History

Royal Birkdale boasts an impressive history of hosting major championships, most notably The Open Championship, making it a cornerstone of the Open rota.

  • The Open Championship: 10 times (1954, 1961, 1971, 1976, 1983, 1991, 1998, 2008, 2017, 2026)

Notable Open Champions at Royal Birkdale:

  • 1954: Peter Thomson (First Open at Birkdale, won by the Australian legend).
  • 1961: Arnold Palmer (His first Open victory, famously secured with a miraculous shot from a bush on the 16th).
  • 1976: Johnny Miller (Dominated the final round with a six-shot victory).
  • 1983: Tom Watson (Won his fifth Open title, hitting a legendary 2-iron on the 18th).
  • 2017: Jordan Spieth (Claimed his third major, with a memorable run on the back nine).

Other Notable Championships:

  • Women’s Open: 6 times (e.g., 2000, 2005, 2010, 2014)
  • Ryder Cup: Twice (1965, 1969 – site of the famous “concession” between Jack Nicklaus and Tony Jacklin)
  • Senior Open Championship: Once (2013)
  • Walker Cup: Once (1951)
  • Curtis Cup: Once (1948)
  • The Amateur Championship: Multiple times (e.g., 1946, 1989, 2005, 2020)

Club Overview

Established: 1889
Royal Status Granted: 1951
Location: Southport, Merseyside, England, UK
Course Type: Links-style, Private (but welcomes visitors)
Architects: George Lowe (original 1897), with significant changes by J.H. Taylor (1930s) and later refinements.
Yardage (Championship Tees): Approx. 6,690 yards (can play longer for The Open)
Par: 71 (Men), 73 (Women)
Address: Waterloo Road, Birkdale, Southport, Merseyside PR8 2LX, United Kingdom

Where is Royal Birkdale Golf Club?

Royal Birkdale Golf Club is located on the coast of Northwest England, between the towns of Southport and Ainsdale, approximately 45 minutes north of Liverpool and an hour west of Manchester.

1. By Air:

2. By Car & Parking:

  • Driving Directions: Royal Birkdale is easily accessible via the A565 road.
  • Parking: On-site parking is available for visitors. For major championships like The Open, official off-site spectator parking with complimentary shuttle services will be organized by The R&A (Royal & Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews). Always check the official championship website for specific parking arrangements during these events.

3. By Public Transport:

  • Train: 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.
  • Bus: Local bus services also operate in the area.

Important Planning Notes:

  • Traffic: While generally less congested than major cities, traffic can increase significantly during large events.
  • Book Early: Accommodation and tee times, especially during peak season or around major championships, are in high demand.
  • “England’s Golf Coast”: Royal Birkdale is part of a renowned stretch of links courses in the region, including Royal Liverpool and Royal Lytham & St Annes, making it ideal for a golf tour.

Tickets to Events at Royal Birkdale Golf Club

As a private members’ club, access to Royal Birkdale is typically for members and their guests. However, during major championships, tickets are available to the public.

  • The Open Championship Tickets: Tickets for The Open are highly sought after and usually go on sale well in advance (often a year prior). They can be purchased directly from The R&A’s official website. Various ticket types are usually available, including:
    • Daily Tickets: For specific tournament days (Thursday-Sunday).
    • Practice Day Tickets: For Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, offering a more relaxed atmosphere.
    • Weekly Passes: For access throughout the entire championship week.
    • Hospitality Packages: Premium options with exclusive viewing, dining, and amenities.
  • Other Competitions: Royal Birkdale also hosts various amateur and professional competitions throughout the year. Information on tickets or entry for these events can often be found on the club’s website or golf event listing sites.

Where to Stay near Royal Birkdale Golf Club

The town of Southport offers a range of accommodation options, from traditional hotels to guesthouses, catering to various budgets.

1. Key Towns for Accommodation:

  • Southport: The closest major town, offering a wide selection of hotels, guesthouses, and B&Bs. It’s a traditional seaside resort with shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
  • Formby: To the south of Birkdale, offering some accommodation and the Formby Hall Golf Resort & Spa.
  • Liverpool: For those who prefer a 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 Early: Especially when The Open Championship is hosted, accommodation in Southport and surrounding areas will be booked solid many months in advance.
  • 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

Playing at Royal Birkdale Golf Club

Playing a round at Royal Birkdale is a highly sought-after experience for golfers worldwide. As a private club, visitor tee times are available but must be booked in advance.

Green Fees (Visitor Rates – approximate, always confirm with club):

  • Summer (18 Holes): Typically range from £240 – £370 per person (approx. $300 – $470 USD), with higher rates on Sundays/Bank Holidays.
  • Winter (18 Holes): Generally lower, ranging from £120 – £150 per person (approx. $150 – $190 USD).
  • Caddies: Caddies are available and highly recommended for navigating the links course. Caddie fees and gratuities are separate from the green fee.

Booking Tee Times:

  • Advance Booking: Visitors are strongly advised to book tee times well in advance, especially during the peak summer season.
  • Availability: Visitor play is generally welcomed every day except Saturday.
  • Contact: Tee times can typically be booked directly through the Royal Birkdale Golf Club’s professional shop or secretary’s office via phone or email, or through specialist golf tour operators.

Best Time to Visit and Play:

  • Summer (May – September): Offers the best chance for favorable weather conditions (milder temperatures, less rain, longer daylight hours), ideal for links golf. However, this is also peak season, so expect higher green fees and more demand.
  • Spring (March-April) & Autumn (October-November): Can offer good playing conditions with potentially lower green fees and fewer crowds, though weather can be more unpredictable.

Walkability:

  • Royal Birkdale is a classic links course and is highly walkable. Walking the course is the traditional and recommended way to experience its nuances and appreciate the natural terrain.
  • Buggies (Golf Carts): The club has a policy regarding the use of motorized buggies. They are generally permitted but may be subject to restrictions based on course conditions or for health and safety reasons. They are often reserved for those with medical certificates or disabilities. It’s advisable to check the club’s specific buggy policy if you require one.

Helpful Links for Planning Your Visit to Royal Birkdale Golf Club

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

Official Sites:

Travel & Booking Tools:

Last Updated on July 16, 2025 by Sports Tourist

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