Locals are being invited to have their say ahead of The 154th Open at Royal Birkdale

Community Engagement Sessions are being held in Southport for residents ahead of The 154^th Open being held at Royal Birkdale from 12-19 July.

The Open is returning to Sefton for the first time since 2017 and The R&A in partnership with Sefton Council and other key stakeholders are providing residents with the opportunity to hear about the latest arrangements for the Championship and speak directly to representatives.

The first two engagement sessions will take place at Southport Market, King Street, Southport (PR8 1LA) on Thursday 12 February 2026, 12pm–6pm, and Thursday 14 May 2026, 11am–6pm. The sessions are open to everyone.

Cllr Dowd, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Partnership Engagement, said:

“The Open is a huge moment for Sefton, and it’s important that our communities feel informed, involved, and excited as preparations move forward. These engagement sessions are a great opportunity for residents to hear directly from the teams delivering the Championship, ask questions, and understand the positive impact this global event will bring to our borough.”

The Open attracts worldwide attention and is expected to bring thousands of visitors to the borough, delivering significant economic benefits for local businesses and communities. Practice Days will take place from Sunday 12 to Wednesday 15 July, followed by Championship Days from Thursday 16 to Sunday 19 July.

Information on updates and future engagement dates will be shared here.

Find out more huge events coming to the region in 2026 here.

Find out what’s good up North on our new platform, The Northern Guide. 

From the best hotels, beauty spots, days out, food and more up North – visit thenorthernguide.com and follow The Northern Guide on Instagram HERE.