The Open Championship is heading back to arguably the most iconic venue in golf for 2027: the Old Course at St. Andrews. Before that, the 2026 edition of the tournament lands at Royal Birkdale, the first time it’s been there since Jordan Spieth lifted the Claret Jug in 2017. But once that wraps, all eyes turn to Scotland for one of the sport's biggest stages. The R&A doesn't schedule this legendary tournament too far ahead, but you know it's always going to cycle through those classic courses, and St. Andrews coming up is a massive deal.
"The Home of Golf" Returns to Center Stage
Let's be real, the Old Course at St. Andrews is just built different. It's hosted more Open Championships than any other course, dating all the way back to its first in 1873. This place is on a consistent rotation, popping up every five editions or twice a decade. We last saw it for the 150th Open in 2022, when Cameron Smith fought off Cameron Young and Rory McIlroy for his first and only major win. They don’t call it “The Home of Golf” for nothing; players from everywhere flock to Scotland just to try and play a round there. The course itself is loaded with history and challenges. We're talking 30 Open Championships since 1873. You’ve got the infamous "Hell Bunker" on the 14th hole, and don't even get me started on the Road Hole at 17. The double greens, where holes on the front and back nine share turf, are wild. And that first hole? It’s traditionally the widest fairway in golf, sharing space with the 18th. Legends like Tiger Woods completed his career Grand Slam at St. Andrews in 2000 with an eight-stroke victory, then grabbed another five-stroke win there in 2005. Jack Nicklaus won it twice on this course, along with other giants like Nick Faldo, John Daly, Seve Ballesteros, Sam Snead, and Bobby Jones. This place just oozes championship pedigree.Beyond St. Andrews: What's Next for The Open
While St. Andrews in 2027 is a huge highlight, the R&A has also locked in the venue for 2028. We're heading back to Royal Lytham & St. Annes in Lancashire, England. It’s been a minute since Royal Lytham & St. Annes last hosted an Open Championship, but its return will be another welcome sight for golf fans. So, get ready for some truly epic golf. With the 2026 tournament at Royal Birkdale, then the grand return to St. Andrews in 2027, and Royal Lytham & St. Annes in 2028, the next few years of the Open Championship are shaping up to be must-watch events. You won't want to miss a single swing.This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.