The Club was formed in 1889, starting life as a nine-hole course. In 1897 the decision was taken to move to Birkdale Hills where an 18-hole course was constructed. The layout was changed considerably in the mid-1930’s transforming the course into a championship venue. In 1991 a decision was taken to redesign and relay all the greens. Further changes were made to the course in 2005/2006, in preparation for the 2008 Open. This considerable investment and on-going improvement have enabled the club to retain its position as one of the finest links courses.
Even in the early days, the Birkdale Club was forward-thinking, with the members voting in favour of allowing ladies to use the links from 1889. Indeed, one of the first tournaments held was the 1909 Ladies’ British Open Match Play Championship. The growing stature of the Club was acknowledged in 1951 when the King gave his permission for the Club to be known as The Royal Birkdale Golf Club. The course has been the stage for many great golf championships including the Walker Cup, the Curtis Cup, the Amateur Championship, and the Ryder Cup. On nine occasions the greatest championship, The Open, has been played here. The Club hosted the British Seniors Open for the first time in 2013 and in 2014 hosted the Ricoh Women’ British Open for the sixth time.
The links measure 6,690 yards and although the distance itself is a test even for the most accomplished golfer, the wind, whistling down the fairways when it comes from the sea, adds to the challenge. Each hole runs through a landscape of high dunes, the fairways are flat and fair and from the tee there is generally a clear view of the task ahead. Each hole is memorable, from The Open Championship tees the 6th and 13th holes both measure 498 yards and are two of the longest par 4s in championship golf.
