The 10 Best Golf Courses That Have Hosted The Open Championship

1. Old Course at St Andrews

The Old Course ranks first because it has hosted The Open a record 30 times, more than any other venue, with the most recent being the 150th Open in 2022. It offers genuine public access through the St Andrews Links Trust, with a peak 2027 green fee of about £320. The course features the iconic Swilcan Bridge, the Road Hole 17th, and massive double greens that are recognized worldwide.

This course is for any golfer seeking the ultimate pilgrimage to the birthplace of the sport, but securing a round requires planning. You must enter the daily ballot, book an advance slot the prior September, or purchase a guaranteed tee time through an approved tour operator, as walk-on play is nearly impossible in peak season. Compared to the pick below, Royal Portrush, St Andrews offers a deeper history but a less dramatic coastal setting.

2. Royal Portrush (Dunluce Links)

Royal Portrush ranks second because it returned to the Open rota in 2019 after a 68-year gap, with Shane Lowry winning before a roaring home crowd, and The Open returns here in 2025. The Harry Colt design on the Antrim coast features the fearsome par-3 "Calamity Corner" over a ravine and dunes near the Giant's Causeway. Visitor green fees run about £325 (≈€380) for 2027, making it a premium but accessible major venue.

This course is for golfers who want a modern Open pedigree combined with dramatic seaside scenery, all in one spectacular package. It trades the deep historical resonance of St Andrews for a more rugged and visually stunning experience. Compared to the Old Course, Portrush offers a more challenging and undulating layout, but it lacks the sheer number of Open championships.

3. Royal Birkdale

Royal Birkdale ranks third because it has hosted The Open 10 times, including the 2017 event won by Jordan Spieth, and is widely regarded as the fairest of the English Open courses. Located on England's Lancashire coast in Southport, its fairways run through flat-bottomed valleys between towering dunes, punishing wayward shots while giving good ones a fair bounce. Visitor green fees run about £300 for 2027, placing it in the mid-range for Open venues.

This course is for golfers who appreciate a design that championship players consistently praise for its honesty and shot-making demands. It trades the raw power of Portrush for a more strategic and fair test of golf. Compared to Royal Portrush, Birkdale offers a more consistent and less extreme challenge, but it lacks the dramatic coastal cliffs. It is a true test of accuracy and course management, rewarding precise play over brute force.

4. Carnoustie (Championship)

Carnoustie ranks fourth as the Best Value pick because it is the longest and arguably hardest course on the Open rota, having hosted eight Opens, including the 1999 Van de Velde meltdown and the 2018 win by Francesco Molinari. Crucially for visitors, it is publicly accessible via a links-management company at about £280 for 2027, offering strong value for an Open venue.

This course is for golfers who want a true major venue without the marquee price, but they must be prepared for a severe challenge. It trades the fairness of Royal Birkdale for a relentless and punishing examination of golf. Compared to Birkdale, Carnoustie is longer, more difficult, and less forgiving of errors. It is a test of mental and physical endurance, where par is always a great score.

5. Royal Troon (Old Course)

Royal Troon ranks fifth because it hosted its 10th Open in 2024 and is home to two iconic holes: the par-3 8th "Postage Stamp," the shortest hole on the rota at about 123 yards, and the long 6th. The classic out-and-back routing means a benign front nine and a wind-lashed return, testing every aspect of a player's game. Visitor green fees run about £330 for 2027, placing it among the pricier venues.

This course is for golfers who want a mix of one of golf's shortest and most feared par-3s with a stern overall examination. It trades the raw difficulty of Carnoustie for a more balanced, two-sided test. Compared to Carnoustie, Troon offers a more varied experience with its contrasting nines, but it is slightly more expensive. It is a fair but demanding links that rewards precise iron play and strategic thinking.

6. Royal Liverpool (Hoylake)

Royal Liverpool ranks sixth because it has hosted 13 Opens, including the 2006 win by Tiger Woods and the 2023 win by Brian Harman. Known as Hoylake, this course on England's Wirral Peninsula is one of the oldest links, founded in 1869, and is flatter and more exposed than the dune courses. Internal out-of-bounds and fierce wind define its challenge, with a new short par-3 17th added for the 2023 Open.

This course is for golfers who appreciate deep Open history and a links that relies on wind and strategy rather than dramatic elevation. It trades the iconic holes of Royal Troon for a more subtle and exposed test. Compared to Troon, Hoylake is flatter and less visually striking, but it offers a unique challenge with its internal out-of-bounds. It is a thinking golfer's course, where club selection and shot placement are paramount.

7. Muirfield

Muirfield ranks seventh because it has hosted 16 Opens and is celebrated as the fairest test in championship golf, thanks to its two-loop routing that exposes players to every wind direction. Home of The Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers, its impeccable conditioning and strategic bunkering reward precise, thoughtful golf. Visitor green fees run about £365 for 2027, with play limited to Tuesdays and Thursdays, making it a premium and exclusive experience.

This course is for golfers who want the most honest and balanced test on the rota, but they must plan around the limited visitor days. It trades the exposed flatness of Royal Liverpool for a more varied and strategic routing. Compared to Hoylake, Muirfield is more expensive and less accessible, but it offers a superior and more complete design. It is a course that demands precision and patience, with no weak holes and no easy escapes.

8. Royal St George's (Sandwich)

Royal St George's ranks eighth because it is the only Open venue in southeast England, having hosted 15 Opens, including the 2021 win by Collin Morikawa. Famous for its huge, rumpled dunes, blind shots, and the deepest bunker in championship golf on the par-4 4th, it is a quirky, old-school links that divides opinion but never bores. Visitor green fees run about £295 for 2027, making it an accessible option.

This course is for golfers who appreciate an untamed, characterful links design that offers a unique and challenging experience. It trades the fairness of Muirfield for a more quirky and unpredictable test. Compared to Muirfield, Royal St George's is less balanced but more memorable, with its blind shots and dramatic dunes. It is a course that requires creativity and adaptability, rewarding bold play and punishing indecision.

9. Royal Lytham & St Annes

Royal Lytham & St Annes ranks ninth because it has hosted 11 Opens, including the 2012 win by Ernie Els, and is unusual as an Open course set inland of the sea, surrounded by red-brick suburbia. It opens with a par-3, rare among championship courses, and is defended by more than 200 bunkers. Bobby Jones won the 1926 Open here, commemorated by a plaque on the 17th.

This course is for golfers who want dense bunkering and championship history at a comparatively attainable price. It trades the scenic drama of Royal St George's for a more inland and enclosed setting. Compared to Royal St George's, Lytham is less visually striking but offers a more precise and demanding test. It is a course where bunker avoidance is paramount, and a good score requires exceptional iron play and course management.

10. Turnberry (Ailsa Course)

Turnberry ranks tenth because it hosted four Opens, including the legendary 1977 "Duel in the Sun" between Watson and Nicklaus, and remains one of the most scenic and revered Open venues despite being currently off the active rota. A Martin Ebert redesign added the spectacular lighthouse-side par-3 9th, and the course offers views to the Ailsa Craig and the Isle of Arran. Resort green fees run about £400 for 2027, making it the priciest course here.

This course is for golfers who want a bucket-list experience with the most dramatic coastal views in golf, but they must be willing to pay a premium. It trades active-rota status for a truly unforgettable setting and a world-class redesign. Compared to Royal Lytham, Turnberry is far more expensive but offers a superior visual and emotional experience.

How we ranked these

This ranking measured each course's Open Championship history, including the number of times hosted and the significance of those events, weighted heavily toward recent and memorable championships. Design quality and architectural reputation, as assessed by expert rankings and player feedback, were also primary factors. Visitor accessibility, including green fee cost, booking difficulty, and public availability, was weighted to reflect practical playability for the average golfer.

Deliberately ignored were non-Open tournaments, women's and amateur championships, and course conditioning at the time of evaluation, as these do not reflect the core Open experience. Also excluded were courses with no Open history, private courses with no public access, and any subjective aesthetic preferences not tied to championship pedigree. The focus remained solely on the Open rota and the tangible factors of history, design, and visitor access.

What to look for

When choosing between these courses, the primary differentiators are access, cost, and the specific Open history you value most. Active rota venues offer the authentic championship feel, while historic hosts like Turnberry provide iconic moments at a premium. Consider the booking process: St Andrews requires a ballot, Muirfield restricts play to Tuesdays and Thursdays, and others offer direct online booking. Cluster courses geographically to maximize your trip.

The most common mistake is underestimating the difficulty of securing tee times, especially at St Andrews and Muirfield, and failing to plan months in advance. Another error is choosing solely on price, ignoring that a £400 round at Turnberry may offer a more memorable experience than a cheaper round at a less iconic venue. Balance your budget with the specific atmosphere and history you seek.

Related questions

What are the most famous golf courses in the world?

The most famous golf courses globally include St Andrews, Augusta National, Pebble Beach, and Cypress Point. These venues are renowned for their history, design, and hosting major championships. St Andrews is the birthplace of golf, while Augusta National hosts the Masters. Pebble Beach offers stunning coastal views, and Cypress Point is a private, exclusive layout.

What is the oldest golf course in the world?

The Old Course at St Andrews in Scotland is widely recognized as the oldest golf course in the world, with records of play dating back to the 15th century. It is the 'Home of Golf' and has hosted The Open Championship a record 30 times. Its iconic double greens and the Swilcan Bridge are symbols of the sport's heritage.

How many times has The Open Championship been held at St Andrews?

The Open Championship has been held at the Old Course at St Andrews 30 times, more than any other venue. The most recent was the 150th Open in 2022. This record underscores St Andrews' central role in golf's history and its status as the sport's spiritual home.

What is the hardest golf course on The Open rota?

Carnoustie is widely considered the hardest course on The Open rota, earning the nickname 'Carnasty.' Its brutal finishing stretch, with the Barry Burn winding through the closing holes, has challenged the world's best. The 1999 Open, where Jean Van de Velde famously faltered, is a testament to its difficulty.

Which golf course has hosted the most Open Championships?

The Old Course at St Andrews has hosted The Open Championship 30 times, the most of any course. It last hosted in 2022 for the 150th Open. Other frequent hosts include Muirfield with 16, Royal St George's with 15, and Royal Liverpool with 13.

What is the 'Postage Stamp' hole?

The 'Postage Stamp' is the nickname for the 8th hole at Royal Troon, a par-3 measuring just 123 yards. It is one of the shortest holes on The Open rota but is notoriously difficult due to its tiny green surrounded by deep bunkers. Many championship hopes have been dashed here.

What is the 'Duel in the Sun'?

The 'Duel in the Sun' refers to the 1977 Open Championship at Turnberry, where Jack Nicklaus and Tom Watson battled head-to-head over the final two rounds. Watson ultimately won by one stroke. This epic contest is considered one of the greatest in golf history, cementing Turnberry's legendary status.

Are the courses on The Open rota open to the public?

Yes, all courses on The Open rota are open to the public, but access varies. Some, like the Old Course at St Andrews, use a daily ballot system. Others, like Carnoustie and Royal Birkdale, offer direct online booking. Muirfield restricts visitor play to specific days, and a handicap certificate is often required.

FAQ

Can any golfer book a tee time at these Open Championship courses?

Yes, all courses on this list allow public access, though availability varies. The Old Course at St Andrews uses a daily ballot system, while others like Carnoustie and Royal Birkdale offer online booking. Some courses require a handicap certificate, typically between 18 and 28 for men and women.

What is the best time of year to play an Open rota course?

Late spring through early autumn (May to September) offers the most reliable weather and longer daylight hours. However, summer months are busiest, so booking several months ahead is recommended. Shoulder seasons like April or October can be quieter but bring more wind and rain.

How much does it cost to play a round at an Open Championship venue?

Green fees range roughly from £280 to £400 for a single round, depending on the course and season. The Old Course at St Andrews is around £320, while Carnoustie is about £280. Some courses offer twilight or winter rates that can be lower.

Do I need to be a member to play these courses?

No, all courses featured are open to the public, though some have limited visitor slots. For example, Muirfield and Royal Troon require booking through their official websites or by phone. Membership is not required, but advance planning is essential.

Are caddies available for hire at these courses?

Yes, most Open venues offer caddie services, typically costing between £50 and £80 per round plus a tip. Booking in advance is recommended, especially at popular courses like St Andrews and Royal Portrush. Some courses also allow you to bring your own caddie.

Can I play the same tees used in The Open Championship?

Usually yes, but the championship tees are often set back and may not be available for daily play. Most courses have multiple tee boxes, and you can request the back tees if your handicap allows. However, the course setup for a major is much more difficult than standard conditions.

Which Open rota course is the best value for money?

Carnoustie is considered the best value, offering a true championship test for around £280. It has hosted eight Opens, including the 1999 and 2018 events. Its public management and relatively lower fee compared to other marquee venues make it an attractive option for golfers seeking Open pedigree.

What is the most expensive Open rota course to play?

Turnberry (Ailsa Course) is the most expensive, with green fees around £400 for 2027. This premium reflects its resort setting and iconic status, despite being off the current rota. The course offers stunning scenery and a Martin Ebert redesign, including the famous lighthouse par-3 9th.

How far in advance should I book a round at St Andrews?

For the Old Course, you can enter the daily ballot, but for guaranteed tee times, it's best to book through an approved tour operator or secure an advance slot the previous September. Peak season slots fill up quickly, so planning 6-12 months ahead is recommended.

Are there any Open venues that are not on the current rota?

Yes, Turnberry and Carnoustie are not on the current active rota. Turnberry last hosted in 1994 and is off due to ownership issues, while Carnoustie last hosted in 2018 but remains a future rotation candidate. Both are still open to the public and offer championship golf.

Sources

• https://www.randa.org/
• https://www.golfdigest.com/
• https://www.standrews.com/
• https://www.golfmonthly.com/
• https://www.top100golfcourses.com/
• https://www.visitscotland.com/
• https://www.visitbritain.com/
• https://www.linksmagazine.com/

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