Your Guide Exploring to Southport During The Open
The 154th Open returns to Royal Birkdale July 12-19 2026 and Southport is ready to welcome the eyes of the golfing world.
Southport and the surrounding areas are steeped in golfing history. Home to some of the world's finest links courses, England's Golf Coast includes Royal Birkdale, which is set to host The Open for the eleventh time in 2026.
Just moments away from the course, Southport town centre is set to be a hub of of activity during the championship.
From visiting golf fans to local residents, everyone can make the most of tournament week with our guide to the top events and activities taking place across Southport.
What's On
Soak up the atmosphere of The Open in Southport town centre during tournament week.
Enjoy a packed programme of live music in venues across the town, alongside the inaugural Market Quarter Festival and a host of other events. Discover arts and cultural exhibitions celebrating the heritage of the Sefton Coast, while making the most of everything Southport has to offer year-round.
Food and Drink
Looking for somewhere to eat, drink or relax after a day at The Open? Southport offers a vibrant mix of restaurants and cosy cafés, as well as nightlife venues, classic pubs, and stylish late-night bars.
Experience Southport
Arts and Culture
Exhibitions and events celebrating culture and creativity on the Sefton Coast
Getting to Southport town centre from Royal Birkdale
Walking
The hub of town centre is less than a two-mile walk from Royal Birkdale Golf Club. Leave the course and head north along Waterloo Road, keep walk straight on to Lulworth Road and you'll be in the town centre in no time.
Rail
Merseyrail operate a enhanced schedule during the tournament. Trains from nearby stations Hillside and Birkdale provide a short journey into Southport.
Taxi
Southport town centre is just minutes away by car. A dedicated taxi pick-up area will operate from 12–19 July near the main public entrance to the course. As demand is expected to be high, visitors are advised to book in advance.
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