The Open Championship, golf’s oldest and most storied major, is synonymous with windswept links, rugged coastlines, and the unpredictable drama of seaside golf. Organised by The R&A, the championship rotates among a select group of elite courses, primarily in Scotland, England, and Northern Ireland. Unlike other majors with longer-term schedules, The Open’s future venues are announced sparingly, with only a few confirmed at any given time. As of 2025, the championship has locked in Royal Portrush for 2025, Royal Birkdale for 2026, and St Andrews for 2027, with speculation swirling about what lies beyond.
Royal Portrush: Northern Ireland’s Dunluce Links in 2025
The Open Championship returns in July 2025 to Royal Portrush’s Dunluce Links in Northern Ireland — only the third time the course has hosted golf’s oldest major. After debuting in 1951 and making a triumphant return in 2019 with Shane Lowry’s six-shot victory, the quick turnaround cements Portrush’s place as a modern classic.
Designed by Harry Colt in the 1920s, the Dunluce Links is a natural masterpiece. Iconic holes like the par-4 5th, “White Rocks,” offer sweeping Atlantic views, while tight bunkering, undulating greens, and shifting coastal winds test even elite players.
Beyond the course, County Antrim offers stunning scenery and cultural gems — from the Giant’s Causeway to the historic Bushmills Distillery. The 2025 Open will not only highlight world-class golf but also showcase the rich charm and allure of Northern Ireland.
Royal Birkdale: England’s Golf Coast Gem in 2026
The 154th Open heads to Royal Birkdale in 2026, marking the 11th time this storied Southport venue will host golf’s oldest major. Since Peter Thomson’s win in 1954, legends like Arnold Palmer, Tom Watson, and Jordan Spieth — whose dramatic 2017 victory remains iconic — have all lifted the Claret Jug here.
Known for its fairness and striking design, Birkdale features flat fairways, towering dunes, and punishing bunkers that reward strategic play. Highlights include the par-3 12th, “Little Eye,” a picturesque yet perilous test of precision.
Set in the heart of England’s Golf Coast, Southport offers access to three Open venues and a charming mix of seaside attractions, vibrant food spots, and nearby cultural hubs like Liverpool and Chester. In 2026, Royal Birkdale will again offer a championship — and a destination — worth the journey.
St Andrews: The Home of Golf in 2027
The 155th Open returns to the Old Course at St Andrews, Scotland, from July 15–18, 2027, marking its record 31st hosting. This edition celebrates the 100th anniversary of Bobby Jones’ 1927 victory, honouring a century of legends including Nicklaus, Ballesteros, Woods, and Zach Johnson.
Dating back to the 15th century, the Old Course blends history and challenge — wide fairways, shared greens, hidden bunkers, and the famous Road Hole test every aspect of a player’s game. Icons like the Swilcan Bridge and Hell Bunker only add to its allure.
Set in the historic town of St Andrews in Fife, visitors can enjoy ancient ruins, the prestigious university, coastal walks, and nearby links like Kingsbarns and Crail. In 2027, golf returns to its roots, where tradition, talent, and timeless beauty converge.
Beyond 2027: What’s Next for The Open?
With venues confirmed only through 2027, speculation centers on where The Open might head next. The rota of 10 historic courses — including St Andrews, Royal Birkdale, and Royal Portrush — offers strong clues. A return to Scotland in 2028 seems likely, with Carnoustie (last hosted in 2018) and Muirfield (absent since 2013) as top contenders.
Carnoustie, known as “Golf’s Greatest Test,” is famed for dramatic finishes like Harrington’s 2007 win and Van de Velde’s 1999 collapse. Muirfield, a classic East Lothian layout, boasts a rich history and proximity to Edinburgh’s cultural scene.
Royal Lytham & St Annes, last seen in 2012, may also reemerge. Though inland, its tight, bunker-laden course has hosted legends like Seve Ballesteros.
Notably, Turnberry remains off the schedule due to concerns over its ownership, despite its stunning Ailsa Course and fan-favourite status. For now, The R&A prioritizes tradition and focus on the game when choosing future hosts.
The Rota’s Legacy and Local Impact
The Open’s rota is a tight-knit group of world-class links courses, chosen not just for their challenge but for their connection to the UK’s coastal heritage. This familiar rotation builds deep fan loyalty and drives major tourism, benefiting host regions from Northern Ireland’s whiskey trails to England’s historic towns.
While new venues aren’t expected soon, Royal Portrush’s successful return hints at future possibilities in Wales or Ireland, where top courses like Royal County Down await. For now, upcoming Opens at Portrush, Birkdale, and St Andrews promise iconic moments and rich regional character — keeping the tradition alive while welcoming the world.
