Lexington, Kentucky
Lexington Country Club delivers a traditional parkland test reimagined for today’s player after a major Kevin Hargrave-led renovation. It is meticulously conditioned, strategically compelling, and loaded with history—an essential round for serious regional golfers.
Lexington Country Club stands tall as a model of classic Kentucky parkland design rejuvenated for the modern game. Tom Bendelow’s original bones—holes meandering gently through rolling pasture—set the routing in motion, while Kevin Hargrave’s 2023 transformation has taken the course to a new level with rebuilt greens, repositioned bunkers, wider fairways, and miles better sightlines. The new layout feels both fresher and truer to its roots, letting the landscape breathe and challenging golfers to pick angles against the ever-present breeze. Expanded putting surfaces and renovated creeks introduce new spice to the shotmaking menu, but the heart of the club remains: precise, enjoyable private-club golf that prizes history and playability in equal measure.
Bendelow’s classic routing meets Hargrave’s surgical renovation vision, creating a playable, challenging, and eminently walkable championship parkland—proof that great architecture endures through thoughtful modernization.
A true statement opener, the par-5 first gives golfers a generous corridor but demands precision to keep the second shot playable. The expanded fairway and subtle green contouring post-renovation ask you to think your way into a good start.
Favor the correct side of the tee shot to leave a clear angle for your approach, and weigh risk versus reward on the possible layup or going for the green in two.
Stray drives risk tangled rough or blocked approaches past new fairway bunkering—don’t lose your round early.
Firm, immaculate fairways and greens with upgraded irrigation and carefully restored turf post-renovation.
Moderate to brisk during member play; expect slower rounds during tournament or guest-heavy days.
Historic private-club atmosphere—quiet, traditional, and golf-centric with polished service.
Collared shirts and conservative country club attire; confirm policy before arrival.
Approach play to tiered, expanded greens is make-or-break—know your carry numbers cold.
Firm, fast greens mean top conditions—be prepared for quick surfaces and true roll.
Tree removal and new surrounds mean more short grass around the greens—master bump-and-runs.
Excellent practice facilities and a serene range—make use of them to dial in before your tee time.
Golf course opens, designed by Tom Bendelow
First Kentucky Amateur hosted at the club
Kevin Hargrave finalizes master plan for major renovation
Five greens rebuilt, bunkers reshaped, corridors widened, new irrigation system
Lexington Country Club has hosted the Kentucky Amateur tournament nine times since 1914, making it a centerpiece for the state’s competitive scene. That level of repeat selection is a testament to its standing and conditioning.
The 2023 renovation removed around 200 trees, revealing broader views across the property and restoring a more open, classic parkland vibe. Golfers now play along widened corridors with a fresh visual feel.
Tom Bendelow laid out the original routing in 1912, but it’s Kevin Hargrave’s steady hand that brought the course squarely into the modern era. The collaboration of eras gives the club its unique blend of tradition and relevance.
Renovation efforts on the creeks—particularly on holes 12 and 14—have revitalized risk-reward decisions and improved drainage, making these spots both beautiful and strategically testing.
Lexington CC has hosted the Kentucky Amateur more times (9) than nearly any other course in the state.
When the club reopened in April 2024, it featured five entirely rebuilt greens and more than 200 fewer trees.
The property’s new irrigation system allows tournament-level firmness year-round.
The club’s proximity to historic horse country makes for some of the most iconic drives in Bluegrass golf.
The club’s locker room and terrace have long been a meeting place for Kentucky golf’s notables.
Another of Kentucky’s top private clubs, featuring classic parkland routing and Hargrave’s consultation.
Well-regarded championship alternative with strong tradition and challenging layout.
Stay in north/central Lexington near Paris Pike or downtown for the best club access and post-round amenities.
Courses with the most similar DNA profile — matched by deviation shape across all eight playing characteristics.
Why it matches: Elyria Country Club is a natural next stop after Lexington Country Club: it a comparable balance of challenge, variety, and character.
Why it matches: There is real overlap here. Cincinnati Country Club a comparable balance of challenge, variety, and character, making it a compelling counterpart to Lexington Country Club.
Why it matches: What links these two? Puts the same premium on presentation — a familiar feeling, expressed in TPC River Highlands's own setting.
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