Despite all its golfing accolades, the course is by no means the hardest links out there meaning that whether you are a low or high handicapper there is both fun and a challenge to be found on the course. Birkdale is as good as links golf in England comes, and is the jewel in Southport's considerable golfing crown.

Signature hole: par 3, 12th hole

The par 3, 12th is seen as the signature hole at Royal Birkdale. Despite being relatively short the green is well guarded by deep bunkers and thick rough making an accurate shot imperative if you want to any chance of parring the hole. The 12th is considered one of the finest on the course as when the wind blows hitting the green is no easy feat and once you get there it doesn’t exactly get any easier. The subtle contouring of the small putting surface make it difficult to read.

Royal Birkdale is seen by many as the 3rd best course in the UK and the 32nd best worldwide. Jordan Spieth claimed his 1st Claret Jug at Royal Birkdale in winning The 2017 Open Championship. His -12 total was enough for a 3-shot victory over Matt Kuchar. Ireland's Padraig Harrington claimed a back-to-back victory in The 2008 Open Championship at Royal Birkdale with a +3 total being enough to fend off a chasing Ian Poulter. Harrington's Eagle on the par-5 17th hole proved critical with his approach shot into the green considered by many to be one of the best played under pressure in Major golf.

However, it is not only the golf course that makes Royal Birkdale so spectacular, the clubhouse contains the perfect balance between representing the esteemed history of the club whilst still containing all the contemporary facilities needed to make sure you can relax and enjoy some wonderful food and drink after a day of golf. Before the round stock up in the pro-shop which only sells you the latest and best equipment. Also if arranged in advance there are also some of the best pros in the country at Royal Birkdale all of whom are willing to help you hone your skills before tackling the glorious golf course. There are buggies available to rent but only to those who have a genuine incapacity to play golf unless they have a buggy to get them round the course.

As far as links golf breaks go, Royal Birkdale is the perfect destination for golfers of all abilities. Even with the North West of England being littered with so many fantastic courses, Royal Birkdale is just that cut above the rest as it offers a unique golfing experience that cannot be found elsewhere due to the sheer number of tournaments it has held. It is also very easy to get to from wherever it is you wish to come from. Royal Birkdale is only 45 minutes away from Liverpool and 1 hour away from Manchester. The nearest airport is Liverpool John Lennon Airport again only a 45 minutes drive. If you are travelling via train, there are services running every 15 minutes from Liverpool to Southport, so the golf club is very easily accessible.

Royal Birkdale is ranked as one of the best courses in England

Royal Birkdale has hosted The Open 10 times and was the last English course to be added to The Open rota in 1954, Turnberry being the latest addition in 1977.

Royal Birkdale Golf Club is situated between the towns of Southport and Ainsdale off the A565, just half a mile from Hillside train station.

Address: Waterloo Road, Southport, Merseyside, England, PR8 2LX