The 148th Open is now just days away and excitement is building right across the country.
With tickets sold out across all four days of major action, thousands will be descending on the North Coast to catch a glimpse of the world's best golfers as they battle it out for the Claret Jug from.
If you're one of the lucky ones heading to the event then you'll want to make sure you're fully prepared, that's what we're here for.
We've put together this handy guide to ensure you make the most of the event, from how to get there, parking and food and drink, to tee times, mobile phone policies and more, we've got all the essential information you need.
When is it?
The Open makes an historic return to Northern Ireland from 14-21 July.
With a practice days and other events planned in the week of the event, the actual first day of the competition will begin on July 18 and conclude on Sunday, July 21.
Who's playing?
Some of the biggest names in golf will descend on the North Coast over the week including Irish Open winner John Rahm, Tiger Woods, Sergio Garcia, Ricky Fowler, Francesco Molinari and of course our very own Rory McIlroy and Darren Clarke to name a few.
Check out the full list of participants here.
What time do gates open each day?
| Day | Gate Opens | Hours of Play |
| Sunday | 9AM | Throughout the day |
| Monday | 7AM | Throughout the day |
| Tuesday | 7AM | Throughout the day |
| Wednesday | 7AM | Throughout the day |
| Thursday | 6AM | 6.35AM - 8.30PM estimated |
| Friday | 6AM | 6.35AM - 8.30PM estimated |
| Saturday | 7AM | 8AM - 7PM estimated |
| Sunday | 7AM | 8AM - 7PM estimated |
Where to park?
There will be no public car parking at Royal Portrush Golf Club or immediate vacinity.
Spectators choosing to travel to the event by car or motorcycle will be directed to The Open Park & Ride.
All Public Parking will be located at The Open Park & Ride facilities, where dedicated buses will be available to transport people arriving by car or motorbike to the course.
A limited number of weekly car park passes are available at a cost of £60. Weekly passes are only available in advance from TheOpen.com or by contacting The Open Ticket Office on +44 (0)1334 460010.
Motorbike parking is available at a cost of £5 per day
Park and ride opening times
| Gate Opens | Hours of Play | First Service from P&R to the course | Last Service from the course to P&R | |
| Sunday 14 July | 9AM | Throughout the day | 8AM | 8PM |
| Monday 15 July | 7AM | Throughout the day | 6.45AM | 8PM |
| Tuesday 16 July | 7AM | Throughout the day | 6.45AM | 8PM |
| Wednesday 17 July | 7AM | Throughout the day | 6.45AM | 8PM |
| Thursday 18 July | 6AM | 6.35AM - 8.30PM estimated | 5.45AM | 10PM |
| Friday 19 July | 6AM | 6.35AM - 8.30PM estimated | 5.45AM | 10PM |
| Saturday 20 July | 7AM | 8AM - 7PM estimated | 6.45AM | 9PM |
| Sunday 21 July | 7AM | 8AM - 7PM estimated | 6.45AM | 9PM |
Guests with Disabilities
Guests with mobility impairments or specific accessibility requirements are advised to telephone The Open Ticketing Team in advance on +44 (0) 1334 460010.
Taxi Service
There will be a designed taxi rank off Sandhill Drive in operation from 14-21 July.
Can you meet the players?
Yes, there's a dedicated Autograph Zone at The Open giving you that once in a lifetime chance to meet your favourite golfing heroes.
Be sure to check out the big screens to see what time players are expected in the Autograph Zone.
What food and drink will be available?
There's a whole host of locally produced food and drink options available on site. Patrons are also welcome to bring their own food and drink with them but please note alcoholic beverages are not allowed. Alcohol can be purchased at the public catering facilities within the venue.
Are there ATMs inside the course?
Yes, HSBC is an offical patron of The Open and so ATM facilities are available on site in the Spectator Village free of charge.
Are mobile phones permitted?
At The Open, mobile phones are permitted but a strict policy will be in place to ensure that play is not disrupted.
All devices must be kept on silent mode at all times. Photography of play is not permitted on Championship days and filming of play is not permitted at any time.
A number of items are prohibited, check out the full list here.
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