Royal Birkdale: An irresistible links that is simply one of the best in the world

Should you ever be fortunate enough to tread the prestigious fairways of Royal Birkdale, you and your playing companions will be the envy of precisely every other golfer in the country for a few precious hours.

It’s pure brilliance, to put it simply. As seaside links go, Royal Birkdale pretty much tops the pile.

If that – admittedly uncharitable – thought doesn’t have you plotting your way to the Lancashire coast sometime soon, then perhaps the prospect of walking in the footsteps of Birkdale Open champions such as Arnold Palmer, Tom Watson, Peter Thomson, Padraig Harrington and Jordan Spieth will prove irresistible.

History

Originally known as The Birkdale, Royal Birkdale began as a nine-hole golf course which opened for play in 1889 located at Shaw Hills.

In 1894, the committee decided to extend the course to 18 holes and relocate to Birkdale Hills.

The club was simply known as Birkdale until 1951 when King George VI bestowed the royal charter on the club.

Its hosted everything – the Ryder Cup, Walker Cup, Curtis Cup, Ladies British Open Championship and The Open Championship.

What makes it special

From Kent to Cumbria, Devon to East Anglia, no one will be enjoying quite the same all-round golfing experience. Because Royal Birkdale really is that special.

There is arguably no finer destination for a golfing break this side of St Andrews. The ideal base is Southport, a popular resort since Victorian times and now packed with hotels, B&Bs and places to eat and drink – perfect for a weekend away, especially since motorway access to Liverpool and Blackpool makes it highly accessible.

Its unparalleled status within English golf has become less a matter of opinion than a statement of fact.

Where is it?

Royal Birkdale is the jewel of England’s Golf Coast, the beautiful Lancashire links surrounded by quality on all sides with Hillside right next door and Southport & Ainsdale only a short drive away.