

Royal Liverpool, known more commonly as Hoylake, is one of the oldest and most storied clubs in England – home to 13 Open Championships, including Tiger’s masterclass in 2006 and Rory’s wire-to-wire win in 2014. At first glance, it doesn’t look intimidating – flat, exposed, and orderly. But that’s the deception. Hoylake is ruthless if you’re out of position. It demands a precise strategy, especially off the tee. Bunkers are perfectly placed, and the out-of-bounds lines – particularly early on – loom large. The course was recently updated ahead of the 2023 Open, with a brand-new closing hole (a short par-3 17th) that adds drama and risk at the end. Greens are firm, contoured, and fast – especially when the wind is up. The terrain may be understated, but the test is pure. Tiger used irons off nearly every tee in 2006 to win at -18, proving it’s about patience, not power. Hoylake rewards discipline and quietly exposes every flaw in your game.
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Tiger’s best round
Rory’s best round
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Ladies course record
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Discipline is key. Leave driver in the bag if needed. Play for angles and position. The new 17th demands total control late in the round – don’t over-commit.
This course will tempt you into mistakes. Stick to smart lines, play short of danger, and aim centre-green. Focus on getting through the first 6 holes without drama.
It’s a tough walk, but a fair challenge. Play safe, take the long way around hazards, and enjoy the calm beauty of a proper Open venue. You’ll remember it forever.
10 – quick, true, and subtly contoured
Often brutal – no protection. Prevailing westerly shapes nearly every tee shot and adds edge to club selection
Well-managed – high-level etiquette and marshalling
High – tight fairway, OB right, and the sense of Open history all around you
Traditional and rich with history – full of artefacts and tournament heritage
The par-3 17th (new for 2023 Open) is a short, elevated green with disaster in every direction – pure theatre. The 1st and 3rd holes have dangerous OB. The 18th is a solid par-5 finish that tempts a bold second. The 15th is a brutal par-5 often playing into the wind.
Typical west coast links – wind, shifting clouds, and cooler air. Summer offers firm fairways and testing breezes. Autumn brings moodier conditions and beautiful light.