ARCHITECTS
Course info
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Difficulty
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Course Report
Royal Birkdale has hosted more major championships and international golf events since WWII than any other course in the world, including 10 Open Championships and two Ryder Cups.
About
Royal Birkdale Golf Club, designed by George Lowe and enhanced by the Hawtree family, is a storied links on England’s Golf Coast in Southport. Renowned for its championship history, it features rolling dunes, defined fairways, and a memorable art deco clubhouse. The course’s valley-routing provides a fair challenge and exceptional spectator experience, consistently ranking among the world’s best.
Caddie Tip
Royal Birkdale demands careful club selection on windy days; aim for the valleys between dunes for safer lies off the tee. Play conservative to the wider sides on tough driving holes and pay close attention to hole locations before pitching into elevated greens.
The Main Challenge
The toughest aspect is handling relentless winds off the Irish Sea; nearly every shot is affected by swirling conditions. Navigating between dunes with precision, especially when rough is long, places a premium on accuracy and keeping the ball in play.
The Good
Golfers rave most about the pure links experience, fair and consistent layout, and the massive natural dunes framing every hole. The excellent routing lets the wind and weather shape your game without ever feeling unfair. The history and aura of Open Championships add an unforgettable dimension.
The Not So Good
Players commonly note that visitor tee times can be limited, and the high green fees combined with strict club rules sometimes feel exclusionary. Some also find the art deco clubhouse, while iconic, could be upgraded in places to modern standards.
Signature Hole:
#
13
The 13th hole, a par 4, is a standout for its striking visual appeal and strategic challenge. The tee shot must thread through a corridor of dunes to a fairway hidden below, with a demanding approach to an undulating green well protected by bunkers. It’s considered the heart of Birkdale’s famous dunes and a defining moment in the round.
Clubhouse
The original art deco clubhouse includes spacious changing rooms, a historic trophy lounge, multiple dining rooms, and bar overlooking the dunes. Visitors are welcome in defined areas, with catering and a professional shop offering bespoke Royal Birkdale merchandise.
Practice Facilities
Royal Birkdale provides a well-maintained short game area, large putting green, and a modest range. Practice bunkers and chipping zones help warm up for the demanding opening holes. Facilities are geared toward serious preparation for championship-level play.
Dress Code:
Strict
No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.
Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.
Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.
Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.
Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.
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