​Residents and business owners in Birkdale have shared stories of an incredible energy as they prepare to welcome an estimated 300,000 visitors for The Open. Royal Birkdale Golf Club in Southport will host the 154th men’s Open Championship from 12 to 19 July, and local traders are hoping the event will give the area a much-needed boost.
Sally Bee, who runs the Sally Bee Lifestyle shop in Birkdale Village, explained that she plans to dedicate one of her shop windows to promoting Elsie’s Story. This charity was established in memory of seven-year-old Elsie Dot Stancombe following last year’s knife attack in Southport. “We’ve had a tricky few years, and much of the news has been negative,” Bee noted. “It’s heartening to see something positive.” She added that The Open feels like a celebration of Birkdale itself and has created a “massive buzz” within the close-knit community, with everyone “revving up for it.” She observed that it’s rare to see villages thriving in the current climate, and Birkdale’s spirited outlook is refreshing.
Christian Hannah, the operations manager at Penelope’s on the Park, commented that the area already feels energized by the surrounding excitement. He emphasized the importance of hospitality venues right now, noting that more than 300,000 spectators are anticipated. “This event should give local businesses a nice little deserved boost,” he said. Milly George, a Birkdale resident who serves as sales and events manager at Penelope’s on the Park, described The Open’s return as “amazing for Birkdale, Southport, and all surrounding areas” due to the influx of visitors it will bring. She also called Birkdale a “hidden gem” and mentioned that she has already begun meeting guests from different countries.
The 154th Open Championship is scheduled to run from 12 to 19 July, with Royal Birkdale set to host the tournament. Local reactions highlight the potential for a positive impact on the town’s economy and profile. Bella Zheng of Rainbow 2000, a family-run Chinese restaurant, said the business is preparing for a significant surge in customers and hopes the weather cooperates, making for smooth operations during the peak period.
Pete Searle, who runs the bar and cafe Ooshka Ba, has an additional reason for enthusiasm. His eight-year-old son is an avid golfer who participates with the Tommy Fleetwood Golf Academy and recently won a competition granting them tickets to a practice day at Royal Birkdale on Tuesday. Searle, 49, shared that his son is “very excited,” looking up to professional players in the same way many children admire their sports heroes.
The Open’s presence in Birkdale is framed not only as a sporting spectacle but also as a catalyst for community pride and economic activity. Local shop windows, hospitality venues, and family-owned businesses are planning for a busy week, hoping the event will leave a lasting positive impression on residents and visitors alike.