Best Golf Courses in Richmond, Virginia
Richmond is an underappreciated gem in the mid-Atlantic golf landscape. Kinloch Golf Club regularly ranks as Virginia's finest course, historic private clubs along the James River boast Golden Age architecture, and public courses like Independence and Royal New Kent offer exceptional accessible options in the surrounding countryside.
Richmond, Virginia · William Flynn (1928) · 18 holes · Par 72 · 6,808 yards
A William Flynn masterpiece along the James River, the CCV James River Course is consistently ranked among the finest private courses in Virginia. Flynn's Golden Age architecture features strategic bunkering, natural topography, and a classic routing through mature hardwoods on a historic estate overlooking the river valley.
Manakin-Sabot, Virginia · Lester George & Vinny Giles (2001) · 18 holes · Par 72 · 7,150 yards
Kinloch Golf Club west of Richmond is consistently ranked as the top course in Virginia and a top-100 course nationally. The George-Giles design through rolling Piedmont terrain features wide fairways, deep bunkers, and bold green complexes that reward creative shotmaking on a stunning property along the James River bluffs.
Midlothian, Virginia · Tom Fazio (2001) · 18 holes · Par 72 · 7,076 yards
A Tom Fazio public design in Midlothian south of Richmond, Independence is widely considered the best public course in the Richmond area. Fazio's layout through rolling Virginia terrain features strategic bunkering, dramatic water features, and mature hardwood forests that deliver a private-club experience at public pricing.
Richmond, Virginia · A.W. Tillinghast (1900) · 18 holes · Par 71 · 6,683 yards
A historic Tillinghast design in Richmond's West End, Hermitage Country Club is one of the most storied private clubs in Virginia. The compact but strategic par-71 features Tillinghast's trademark dramatic bunkering and challenging green complexes on a mature parkland property that has hosted state and regional championships.
Glen Allen, Virginia · Lester George (2008) · 18 holes · Par 72 · 7,046 yards
A modern Lester George design north of Richmond in Glen Allen, The Federal Club features a rolling layout through Virginia hardwood forest with natural creek corridors and a links-influenced open feel on several holes. George's strategic design rewards thoughtful play with multiple routing options from tee to green.
Providence Forge, Virginia · Mike Strantz (1997) · 18 holes · Par 72 · 7,291 yards
A Mike Strantz design east of Richmond modeled after the great links of Ireland, Royal New Kent is one of the most unique public courses in Virginia. The dramatic layout features massive dunes, deep pot bunkers, elevated greens, and a windswept character that creates an authentic links experience in the Virginia Tidewater region.
Toano, Virginia · Mike Strantz (1996) · 18 holes · Par 71 · 6,867 yards
The sibling course to Royal New Kent, Stonehouse is another Mike Strantz creation east of Richmond that draws inspiration from Scottish links and English heathland courses. The dramatic routing features massive elevation changes for Coastal Virginia, bold bunkering, and Strantz's characteristic visual drama.
Moseley, Virginia · Nicklaus Design (2010) · 18 holes · Par 72 · 7,038 yards
A Nicklaus Design layout in the Magnolia Green community south of Richmond, this public course offers a modern championship experience through rolling Virginia piedmont terrain. The well-conditioned 7,038-yard layout features strategic water hazards, native vegetation, and a welcoming atmosphere for all skill levels.
Public Courses in Richmond
Looking for courses you can play without a membership? See our complete guide to public courses in Richmond .
Overview
Richmond's golf scene benefits from rolling Piedmont terrain, a mild four-season climate, and a deep architectural heritage that spans from Golden Age masters like Flynn and Tillinghast to modern designers like Lester George and Mike Strantz. The James River corridor provides a natural scenic backdrop, and the city's growing food and craft beer scene adds appeal for golf travelers.
Best Time to Play
April through June and September through November are ideal. Virginia springs are beautiful with dogwood and azalea blooms. Fall foliage makes October rounds especially scenic. Summers are warm and humid but manageable.
Travel Tips & Getting There
Richmond International Airport (RIC) is 15 minutes from downtown. Royal New Kent is 30 minutes east toward Williamsburg. Kinloch is 30 minutes west. Combine a golf trip with Virginia wine country visits or historic Williamsburg (60 minutes).
Nearest Airport: Richmond International Airport (RIC)
Frequently Asked Questions
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