The R&A has today launched the ‘Golden Tent’ initiative, offering fans who book one of the final standard camping spots during May the chance to be upgraded to a premium glamping experience for The 154th Open at Royal Birkdale. 

One lucky booker will be upgraded to a luxury Bell Tent, featuring comfortable beds with duvets, pillows, lighting, and cosy décor. 

This relaxing retreat is located just a short distance from the Championship action, allowing winners to enjoy the high-energy festival atmosphere of The Open Camping Village and the comfort of a boutique stay.

The ‘Golden Tent’ initiative launches as The R&A advises that this is one of the last opportunities for golf fans to secure a spot and attend The 154th Open at Royal Birkdale. 

Adding to the convenience this year, fans can now purchase their Championship tickets and camping accommodation together for the very first time. 

The Open Camping Village at Victoria Park, located a walk away from Royal Birkdale, remains a key pillar of The R&A’s commitment to ensuring The Open remains affordable and accessible for young people and families. 

To further support this, camping is completely free of charge for under-16s, while 16-24 year olds can secure their spot for half price.

Glamping guests and campers alike enjoy full access to all Village amenities, including the Clubhouse, family area, games, and exclusive golf-themed events, ensuring the unique atmosphere of The Open continues off the course each day. 

Fans will be able to walk to the course or use a complimentary shuttle service running throughout the week. 

Since launching at Royal Troon in 2016, the initiative has provided over 20,000 free bed nights to fans under the age of 25. 

This year, nearly 23% of all bookings have been made by young fans, ensuring the next generation is at the heart of the historic eleventh visit to Royal Birkdale.

Those securing the final camping tickets for the week will also gain access to an enhanced practice day schedule. 

For the first time, fans can witness the ‘Last-Chance Qualifier’ on Monday, 13 July, a 12-player shootout for the final spot in the field, as well as the ‘Heroes Classic’ on Tuesday, 14 July, a showcase event featuring past Champion Golfers and legends of the game.

Fans wanting to experience The 155th Open in St Andrews in 2027 can guarantee their place now by booking a travel package today, while reservations for the 2027 Open Camping Village will be available soon. 

For more information on the ‘Golden Tent’ campaign, package options, and remaining tickets, fans can visit here.

Organisers Promote Affordable Regional Accommodation Options for Southport Championship

The choice of Victoria Park as the accommodation hub reinforces efforts to integrate the international tournament with the wider Merseyside locality. 

Brett Tonkyn, Director of Premium Experiences at The R&A, said:

“We are offering young people and families an affordable, accessible and fun experience as part of our accommodation options for The Open at Royal Birkdale. 

“With the launch of our ‘Golden Tent’ campaign, we are excited to add an extra layer of magic to The Open Camping Village, giving one fan a truly unforgettable upgrade to luxury glamping. 

“The atmosphere at the site has become a memorable part of The Open experience and we would encourage fans to sign up now before places are sold out.”

Historic Sefton Links Prepares to Welcome Eleventh Open Tournament This July

The upcoming tournament continues a long-standing tradition of major championship golf on the North West coast. 

Taking place from 12-19 July 2026, Royal Birkdale will host The Open for the eleventh time. 

The world-renowned links has a storied history of delivering dramatic finishes, from Jordan Spieth’s thrilling 2017 victory to Tom Watson lifting his fifth and final Claret Jug on the North West coast. 

With final allocations strictly limited, spectators are being encouraged to finalise their travel arrangements quickly to ensure access to the Southport event.

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