Royal New Kent Golf Club – A Mike Strantz Masterpiece Near Williamsburg
Royal New Kent Golf Club is not just a golf course—it’s an unforgettable experience. Located just outside Williamsburg, Virginia, this iconic Mike Strantz design has earned national acclaim for its bold architecture, dramatic visuals, and homage to the legendary Irish links.
Since its debut in 1997, Royal New Kent has stood as one of America’s premier public-access golf courses, consistently ranking among the nation’s best. For golf travelers planning a Williamsburg golf vacation, Royal New Kent Golf Club is a must-play destination that offers an exhilarating challenge for all skill levels.
A Tribute to Irish Links Golf
Inspired by classic seaside layouts like Royal County Down and Ballybunion, Royal New Kent transports players to the rolling dunes and rugged bunkers of the Emerald Isle. Strantz’s vision was to create the most authentic Irish-links experience on U.S. soil—and he succeeded spectacularly.
Undulating fairways framed by tall fescue
Massive sod-faced bunkers in wild, artistic shapes
Blind tee shots and pot bunkers that test course knowledge
Firm, fast Champion Bermuda greens that reward imagination
Every round at Royal New Kent is a mental and physical test, filled with creative shot-making opportunities and unforgettable scenery. It’s no wonder Golf Digest called it one of “America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses.”
Course Restoration & Modern Upgrades
After a brief decline in condition during the mid-2010s, Royal New Kent Golf Club underwent a major revitalization, bringing the course back to its original glory and beyond.
New ownership invested heavily in:
Champion Bermuda greens, now used by many top-tier PGA Tour venues
Restoration of Strantz’s original bunkering, preserving his signature artistry
Extensive fairway and infrastructure improvements to enhance playability
Today, Royal New Kent once again delivers pristine conditions, true roll, and the rugged beauty Strantz intended—all with a renewed focus on top-tier guest service.
National Recognition & Media Acclaim
The restoration of Royal New Kent sparked renewed national interest, earning features in Golf Digest, Golf Magazine, and more. A few highlights:
Fergal O’Leary, one of the few golfers to have played every Top 100 course in the world, wrote a glowing review of his round at Royal New Kent.
GOLF Magazine’s “The Cowboy Way” article celebrates Mike Strantz’s unique design philosophy and his enduring legacy at Royal New Kent.
The course’s comeback story is a shining example of how passion and vision can restore a golf treasure for future generations.
Ideal for Virginia Golf Vacations
Situated just off I-64 between Richmond and Williamsburg, Royal New Kent is easily accessible for those planning a Virginia golf vacation. It pairs perfectly with other top local tracks like Stonehouse, The Club at Viniterra, and Kingsmill.
Whether you’re traveling with a group or planning a golf buddy trip, Virginia Golf Vacations offers custom golf packages that include Royal New Kent and nearby lodging options for exceptional value.
Course Stats & Features
Par: 72
Yardage: ~7,400 from the back tees
Architect: Mike Strantz
Signature Features: Island-style greens, towering bunkers, multiple elevation changes
Practice Area: Driving range, putting green, short-game zone
Clubhouse Amenities: Pro shop, snack bar, cart rentals, friendly staff
Book Your Round at Royal New Kent Today
Whether you’re chasing a bucket list round or simply want to challenge your game on one of the best public courses in the country, Royal New Kent Golf Club offers a truly immersive experience.
Call Virginia Golf Vacations at 1-877-806-8163 or request a free quote online to book your golf package that includes this legendary Williamsburg golf course.
Don’t miss your chance to walk in the footsteps of Mike Strantz’s genius—play Royal New Kent on your next Virginia golf getaway.
Course Details: Par 72 | Course Architect: Mike Strantz
| Championship | Member | |
|---|---|---|
| Yardage | 7336 | 6023 |
| Course Rating | 76.5 | 70.8 |
| Slope | 153 | 135 |
Kingsmill’s “Big Break” Stay and Play
Book your Kingsmill stay and play golf trip with Virginia Golf Vacations and add other great nearby Williamsburg courses like The Golden Horseshoe and Royal New Kent.
