The Open is On: A Guide to the British Open Golf Championship

From 15-22 July, for its 147th year, The British Open Golf Championship will occupy the venue of Carnoustie, a historic golf town located in the northeast of Scotland with a course steeped in history and sporting greatness.

The Open was founded by pioneering golfers who had one guiding principle: to crown the Champion Golfer of the Year. Since 1860, The Open has been played over some of the world’s most cherished links courses and is the oldest and most international championship in professional golf. The Claret Jug – first presented in 1873 – is one of the most iconic trophies in all of sport.

The Open is On: A Guide to the British Open Golf Championship

Tickets & Hospitality

Daily Tickets  From £75 (Free tickets for kids under 15 years)
Weekly Tickets From £305 (Includes practice days and all Championship Days, Free tickets for under 16s, Youth Tickets include free camping accommodation).

The Champions Club
Whether with clients, friends or family, share and enjoy a stylish, relaxed atmosphere with your guests. Located a short walk from the 1st and 18th holes, The Champions Club features a large private garden area and outdoor LED screen. Made-to-order bistro classics are available as well as complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks. From £375

The Harrington Lounge
Named after the Champion Golfer, The Harrington Lounge is the ideal spot to enjoy all the action right alongside the 18th hole at Carnoustie. There are flexible menu offerings from which to choose as well as a complimentary bar including Champagne. From £700

The Hogan Balcony Suite
Experience the best view of The Open from The Hogan Balcony Suite, located within Carnoustie Hotel with a balcony overlooking the 18th green. Guests will have a reserved Grandstand Seat on the 18th Green and 1st Tee, as well as a grazing lounge buffet featuring local Scottish produce, signature wines and a full complimentary bar including Champagne. From £1,100

Tips for The Open

Getting There: Means of travel by road, bus, rail, bike, air and sea are available online.

Take a break from the course and spend some time at the Spectator Village. With a number of food and beverage offers, dedicated kids play area and giant TV screens, there is no need to miss any of the golf.

The Open offers a wide variety of locally-sourced, healthy food options dedicated to sustainability at catering facilities on course and in the Spectator Village.

There will be thousands of public seats located around the course including at the 18th green and at the Practice Ground, all free of charge to spectators.

Keep up-to-date with all the action through one of the many electronic leaderboards situated around the course.

There are plenty of activities for kids of all ages in the Spectator Village, including The Open Swingzone, the Soft Play Area, the Links Challenge putting challenge and the HSBC Grassroots Skillzone where children can put their golf skills to the test in a fun and friendly environment.

Cherished memories are made at The Open when young fans meet their heroes. Bring your family to the Autograph Zone for a chance to get up close with the world’s best players. Watch the big screens around the course to see when golfers will be appearing.

See Gate Opening Times and Hours of Play

Drive By The Goodwood Festival of Speed

The Course

Carnoustie first hosted The Open in 1931 and boasts Champion Golfers such as Henry Cotton, Ben Hogan, Gary Player and Tom Watson.

Despite not being able to see the sea from the links, the exposed layout means strong winds can have a significant impact on shots.

‘When the wind is blowing, it is the toughest course in Britain. And when it’s not blowing, it’s probably still the toughest.’ – Sir Michael Bonallack

Explore the course.

Where to Stay

Cluny Castle, Aberdeenshire:Cluny Castle is every inch the enchanting, Cinderalla-esque venue you would expect to find hidden deep in the rolling hills of Aberdeenshire. Set in over 200 acres of landscaped parkland, the castle itself dates back to the 15th century and remains a private home. However, when you choose to celebrate a special occasion – or just spend quality time with family and friends – its magnificent granite walls and turrets become all yours. Relax in the delightfully decorated West Wing Apartment (sleeps ten), the perfect base from which to explore the stunning landscapes and beautiful beaches along the Aberdeenshire coastline. The refurbishment of eight en-suite bedrooms on the top floor is nearly complete and means that, by the end of the year, up to 26 guests will be happily accommodated. All this heritage and splendour doesn’t have to mean seclusion; Cluny Castle is a 20-minute drive from Aberdeen airport. This is country living like you’ve never seen it before. From £1,365 for three nights

Information on The Open Camping Village is available online.

Visit theopen.com