WITH all eyes on Merseyside for The Open Championship, passengers using Merseyrail services had faced major travel disruption due to planned strike action. Fortunately, on:- 17 July 2026, the industrial action was called off after the operator presented staff with a revised pay offer.

The planned strikes by the RMT Union were scheduled to take place from:- Saturday 18 July to Monday 20 July 2026, directly coinciding with the peak days of the golf tournament at:- Royal Birkdale in Southport. RMT General Secretary Eddie Dempsey welcomed the improved offer, stating that it would now be formally discussed with members.

Merseyrail’s initial proposal of a:- 4% pay rise for 2026 was previously rejected by union members. However, the operator has now put forward a revised deal worth:- 7.25% over 2 years, which will be backdated to January 2026.

The news brings immense relief to general commuters and golf fans alike. Trains will now run as scheduled, albeit under an amended timetable designed specifically to accommodate the thousands of spectators travelling to and from the championship.

Northern Line Services to and from The Open

Passengers heading to Royal Birkdale should travel to Hillside station, which is the closest stop to the course and sits on the Southport branch of the Northern Line.

  • Service Frequency... Trains between:- Liverpool Central/Moorfields and Hillside, as well as services between:- Southport and Hillside, will run every 20 minutes.

  • Peak Times... During peak travel windows before and after the day's play, service frequency will double to run every 10 minutes to help clear crowds.

  • Sunday Travel... The 20 minute frequency will operate throughout Sunday 19 July 2026, dropping to a 40 minute service after 20:30.

Passengers are advised that seats cannot be booked in advance and trains will be exceptionally busy. You should allow extra time for your journey and check the live Merseyrail app before setting off.