Northwest England’s three royal-designated golf clubs — Birkdale, Lytham & St. Annes, and Liverpool — often garner attention for more than the fact each is an outstanding venue. The trio has combined to host 33 British Opens, including Royal Birkdale Golf Club’s 10th time next week, and being a part of the storied major’s history makes each a must-play for visiting golfers. The region, though, has plenty of upper-crust alternatives, each with its own piece of quirky history, as WTGN contributor Dove Jones reveals.