The Three Royals

The Three Royals: Three world famous Open Championship venues situated along the Northwest coast.

For golf enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable experience on the greens, the northwest coast of England presents an extraordinary opportunity with “The Three Royals” tour. This journey traverses three of the most prestigious golf courses in the world: Royal Liverpool Golf Club, Royal Birkdale Golf Club, and Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club. Each of these legendary links courses has earned its place in golfing history, hosting some of the game’s greatest moments and providing a challenging yet beautiful setting for players of all levels.

Royal Liverpool Golf Club

Royal Liverpool Golf Club, affectionately known as Hoylake, is located on the Wirral Peninsula. This historic club dates back to 1869 and has been a regular host of The Open Championship. Hoylake’s flat and relatively straightforward-looking layout is deceptive; its challenges lie in its deep bunkers, strategic ditches, and the ever-present coastal winds that can make or break a round. The course demands precision and strategy, with holes like the par-3 11th and the par-5 18th showcasing its unpredictable nature. The Open has seen some iconic victories at Hoylake, from Bobby Jones’ triumph in 1930 to Rory McIlroy’s win in 2014. With its rich history and challenging setup, Royal Liverpool offers a quintessential links experience that requires both mental and physical stamina.

Royal Birkdale Golf Club

The famed Royal Birkdale Golf Club is set along the stunning Southport coastline. Frequently ranked among the top courses in the UK and the world, the club is known for its towering sand dunes that provide natural amphitheatres for spectators during major tournaments. Since its first Open Championship in 1954, Birkdale has seen legends like Arnold Palmer, Tom Watson, and Jordan Spieth lift the Claret Jug on its hallowed grounds. The course is designed to test every aspect of a golfer’s game, with its demanding fairways, strategic bunkering, and undulating greens. Standout holes include the par-4 5th, where a well-placed drive is crucial to avoid trouble, and the par-3 12th, nestled amongst the dunes. Royal Birkdale’s combination of beauty and difficulty makes it a must-play for any golfer seeking a world-class challenge.

Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club

Royal Lytham & St Annes Golf Club is a course known for its unassuming setting amidst suburban surroundings but revered for its challenging layout. Unlike most links courses, Royal Lytham begins with a par-3, setting the tone for a unique round where accuracy off the tee is essential. With over 200 bunkers strategically placed throughout the course, Lytham is a stern test of a golfer’s ability to avoid trouble. The course has hosted The Open Championship 11 times, with memorable moments including Seve Ballesteros’ dramatic win in 1979 and Ernie Els’ victory in 2012. The final hole, a demanding par-4, is one of the most challenging finishing holes in golf, often determining the outcome of tournaments held here. Royal Lytham’s historic clubhouses and beautifully kept grounds add to the overall experience.

Stay at the Hard Days Night Hotel

After a day on the links, unwind at the Hard Days Night Hotel in Liverpool, the world’s only Beatles-inspired hotel. Situated in the heart of the city, this stylish boutique hotel blends contemporary comfort with an unmistakable nod to the legendary band that hails from Liverpool. With themed rooms, memorabilia, and nightly live music, the Hard Days Night Hotel provides the perfect place to relax and enjoy the vibrant cultural atmosphere of Liverpool. Its central location also offers easy access to Liverpool’s renowned dining, shopping, and nightlife, making it an ideal base for exploring the city when not on the greens.

TREVOSE, CORNWALL - MAY 24: The green on the par 5, 4th hole at sunset at the Trevose Golf and Country Club, on May 24, in Trevose, England. (Photo by David Cannon/Getty Images)