Bellewood delivers a polished, member-only golf experience on a storied estate transformed by Tom Drauschak into a well-routed and challenging par 71. The emphasis is on walkability, reliable conditions, and a swift, tee-time-free round—perfect for players seeking club life and solid test near Philadelphia.
Course DNA
Difficulty
76
Scenery
73
Conditioning
82
Shot Variety
71
Walkability
77
Green Complexity
68
Wow Factor
67
Design Quality
68
Don't miss
After your round, grab a drink on the sweeping mansion porch overlooking the 18th green—a favorite gathering spot for members and guests alike.
At a glance
Quick facts
No tee-times
Members enjoy a tee-time free system for quick rounds
Georgian-style clubhouse
The former Edward Gruber mansion anchors the club
Philadelphia PGA events
Regular host to regional pro tournaments
Five par-3s
Bold one-shot holes punctuate the routing
Original 1999 layout
Built from the ground up on estate land
Practice facilities
Full practice area designed with the course
Mature parkland setting
Tree-lined fairways and estate vistas
The design
The architecture
Bellewood Country Club makes the most of its rolling, estate-derived landscape, with Tom Drauschak crafting a classic parkland routing that both challenges and rewards throughout an 18-hole journey. Five par-3s bolster the course's reputation for variety, and a trio of bold par-5s anchor the scoring opportunities. The layout leverages mature trees, estate vistas, and purposeful bunkering to sustain interest for members round after round, while the mansion clubhouse lends a stately presence and sense of occasion to every start and finish.
Tom Drauschak's philosophy focused on creating a member-first experience with a challenging, varied course that honored the estate's history and delivered day-in, day-out playability.
Defining features
Converted estate grounds with mature trees
Five diverse par-3s, including a prominent 220-yarder
No tee-time play for brisk rounds
Long par-5s offering true risk-reward options
Original routing emphasizing land movement and flow
Georgian-style clubhouse visible from key vantage points
Hole by hole
Signature holes
Hole 7
Backstretch Gamble
PAR
5
YARDAGE
548
A true three-shot par 5 for most, the 7th stretches 548 yards and tempts bold play with a reachable green for long hitters. Elevated bunkers guard the approach and a subtle dogleg demands both power and poise off the tee.
Play it smart
Long hitters can gamble for eagle but must keep tee shots in the fairway and confront tricky bunkering; lay up short for a wedge approach and a safer birdie attempt.
Where it bites
Out-of-position drives can bring trees and deep bunkers into play, making birdie a challenge and par a relief if you miss the fairway.
Course management
Shots to think about
Opening drive on 1
Favor the left side of the fairway for a better angle to the green—and resist the urge to overswing.
Second shot on 7
If you’re not sure you can clear the fairway bunkers, lay back for a full wedge and trust your short game.
Tee shot on 8
Club up and play for the fat of the green—par is an excellent score here.
Approach on 10
Don’t push your luck—smart layup short of bunkers leaves a manageable third.
Closing shot on 18
Aim for the center—even on adrenaline, the green slopes can foil the overaggressive.
Putting on multi-tier greens
Read for back-to-front breaks and stay below the hole when possible.
On the day
What to expect
Conditions
Meticulously maintained fairways and greens throughout the season.
Pace
Rounds often finish in under four hours thanks to a no-tee-time policy and member focus.
Vibe
Classic private-club atmosphere with estate-era charm and attentive service.
Before you tee off
Your game plan
01
Leave extra time for arrival
The private entrance and estate layout can take a few extra minutes to navigate, especially on your first visit.
02
Brush up on your long irons
Bellewood’s demanding par 3s and tiered greens reward confident mid-to-long iron play.
03
Respect the club customs
Polished private-club conduct is expected throughout—even with the relaxed, tee-time-free pace.
The lore
How it came to be
1998
Property purchased and construction of the golf course began
1999
Bellewood Country Club opened for play on the former Gruber estate
2002
Hosted regional golf championships and began establishing its reputation
2024
Braden Shattuck broke the course record during a Philadelphia PGA event
2026
Host site for the Philadelphia PGA Senior Professional Championship
Stories & legends
What makes it special
Clubhouse Transformation
From Mansion to Clubhouse
Bellewood's stately Georgian mansion was transformed from the Edward Gruber estate house into the club's present-day centerpiece, preserving its historic charm. The club celebrates the estate's original architecture even as it serves golfers every day.
Championship Golf
Record Setting Rounds
In 2024, Philadelphia native Braden Shattuck shattered Bellewood’s course record during a Philadelphia PGA event, showing the challenge and playability Drauschak’s design offers top competitors.
Club Traditions
Golf in Under Four Hours
Bellewood is renowned for its quick rounds thanks to a no-tee-time policy and member-first approach, making it possible to play 18 holes in under four hours on most days.
Course Creation
Rapid Vision to Reality
The course and full club facilities were conceived, approved, and built in less than 18 months—a remarkable development window for a new private club.
For the group chat
Fun facts
1
The original Georgian mansion is now the club’s centerpiece and event venue.
2
No tee times are required—members play as they arrive, keeping things relaxed.
3
Five challenging par 3s ensure your iron game is tested on every nine.
4
The property was built and opened as a club in under 18 months.
5
The 2026 Philadelphia PGA Senior Professional Championship will be hosted here.
Build the trip
If you're planning a golf getaway to Pottstown
CourseAccessWhy it's on the listTrip
Spring Ford Country Club
Private
Established neighboring private club with a parkland layout and lively member tournament scene.
Jeffersonville Golf Club
Public
A classic Donald Ross design offering accessible tee times and big value for visiting players.
Pickering Valley Golf Club
Public
Convenient, walkable, and affordable—ideal for a tune-up round before or after Bellewood.
Philadelphia Cricket Club (Wissahickon)
Private
A revered historic club—premium for itinerary swappers or extended stays.
Sunnybrook Golf Club
Public
Strong public reputation and an easy drive from Pottstown.
Stay in the Royersford or Collegeville area for minimal drive times and easy access to local gems.
Course DNA
If You Like Bellewood Country Club
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Community Sentiment
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