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Royal Birkdale
Birkdale was established in 1889 but extensively redesigned in 1922 to create the current layout, which winds its way through the sand dunes towering over each of the fairways. Since first hosting The Open in 1954, the course has been the most regular venue for the Championship other than St Andrews. Peter Thomson won his first and final Open at Royal Birkdale, which will stage The 154th Open in 2026.
Upcoming Venues
A modern classic
Royal Birkdale has hosted The Open ten times and has become one of The Open's most renowned and challenging venues.
Royal Birkdale in Pictures
THE 154th OPEN
Ryan Fox / New Zealander claims Claret Jug after thrilling finale.
The Open at Royal Birkdale
1954
Thomson wins The first Open to be played at Royal Birkdale
1961
Palmer wins the first of back-to-back Opens
1965
Thomson succeeds at Birkdale once again
1971
Trevino wins historic 100th Open
1976
Miller closes with 66 to win The Open
1983
Watson wins fifth Claret Jug
1991
Baker-Finch wins The Open after final round 66
1998
O'Meara wins playoff to take second major of 1998
2008
Harrington battles injury to win back-to-backÂ
2017
Spieth dramatically clinches victory at The Open
2026
Ryan Fox produces stunning finish to claim Claret Jug
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Champion Golfers at Royal Birkdale
- 2017
Jordan Spieth
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- 2007
- 2008
Padraig Harrington
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- 1998
Mark O'Meara
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- 1991
Ian Baker-Finch
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- 1975
- 1977
- 1980
- 1982
- 1983
Tom Watson
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- 1976
Johnny Miller
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- 1971
- 1972
Lee Trevino
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- 1954
- 1955
- 1956
- 1958
- 1965
Peter Thomson
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- 1961
- 1962
Arnold Palmer
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