Shaker Hills offers golfers a dynamic, modern championship experience amid classic New England scenery, with tactical challenges around every dogleg. Its top-tier layout, variety, and compelling closing stretch make it a local must-play and a regional destination.
Check out the striking view from the Far Points Pavilion after your round—it’s a favorite spot for post-golf stories overlooking the dynamic 18th hole.
Shaker Hills Country Club embodies the bold, strategic New England style championed by Brian Silva, incorporating sweeping elevation changes, broad tree-lined corridors, and an artful mix of risk-reward par 5s, tested with daring lines over bunkers and subtle green contours. The course weaves through rolling terrain, calling for thoughtful tee shots to open up nuanced approaches. 2012’s owner-led redesign introduced an explosive new finale, broadening play and increasing drama. Every hole rewards smart decisions—never mere brawn—and the course’s blend of highland scenery and modern flair creates a routing that’s as scenic as it is demanding.
Brian Silva’s work at Shaker Hills remains an influential example of modern New England design—blending bold tactics with generous options—while the 2012 renovation by Skip Curtis reworked the course’s finale for even more drama and strategy.
A true risk-reward par 5 that tempts bold players early, with a sloping fairway and a well-protected, elevated green. Approach shots must carry bunkers, and the smart layup sets up a manageable scoring chance.
Take the left side on your second shot to open up the green for an easier approach and avoid short-siding yourself in thick bunkers.
Bite off too much on your second and you risk a sandy or awkward recovery from difficult slopes left or long.
Generally well-conditioned but expect some variability in greens and fairways, especially during high-play stretches.
Busy—allow for a full four to five hours during peak times as public and league play can stack up.
Upscale, lively and social with a resort-club energy; expect a spirited, unpretentious crowd.
Golf-casual attire; collared shirts strongly encouraged, no denim in effect.
Tee times fill quickly on weekends and holidays—reserve early to get your preferred slot, especially at peak rates.
Take advantage of the full practice range and short-game area before your round; your opening holes will thank you.
Walking is possible but hilly—consider a cart for an easier day, especially if you play the Gold/Black tees.
The closing holes reward sharp distance control and discipline—save energy for your approach to 18.
Course opens, designed by Brian M. Silva
Recognized by Golf Digest as #2 Best New Course in America
Major renovation including new 18th hole led by Fred “Skip” Curtis
Clubhouse and pavilion renovations completed
The radical 2012 redesign of the 18th hole was so ambitious they used dynamite to blast out the old fairway, transforming the closing stretch into a memorable risk-reward par 5. That major shake-up breathed new drama into every tournament finish and closing foursome.
Soon after opening, Shaker Hills was named the #1 public course in Massachusetts and touted as the #2 best new course in America, putting it on the map for traveling players. This reputation still draws ambitious golfers from across New England seeking a worthy challenge.
Golfers regularly praise the exceptional practice facilities, which include a full range and complete short-game area that are included with every round. For those who want to grind or warm up with purpose, it’s a public-golf treat not to be missed.
Although Shaker Hills is fiercely popular with public and league play, it maintains a resort-club energy thanks to a convivial, lively pavilion and year-round events. This creates a bustling but friendly vibe uncommon at most daily-fee clubs.
The 18th hole’s redesign involved dynamite to create a new fairway.
Shaker Hills was named #2 Best New Course in America shortly after opening.
The rate includes practice facility access—a rare bonus for public golf.
The club hosts several annual USGA U.S. Open Qualifiers.
Multiple original trees were removed in 2012 to enhance sightlines and playability.
Challenging, scenic, and one of the region's best public rounds.
An accessible yet memorable Brian Silva companion round.
Historic New England charm just a short drive away.
Donald Ross pedigree for those with access or connections.
Classic club option to round out a private-heavy itinerary.
Marlborough or Westborough for best access and amenities.
Courses with the most similar DNA profile — matched by deviation shape across all eight playing characteristics.
Why it matches: Manakiki Golf Course is a natural next stop after Shaker Hills Country Club: it a comparable balance of challenge, variety, and character.
Why it matches: If Shaker Hills Country Club is your kind of course, High Grove Golf Club is worth a look because it a comparable balance of challenge, variety, and character.
Why it matches: Brambles Golf Club is a natural next stop after Shaker Hills Country Club: it keeps the shot-making repertoire broad.
Community Sentiment
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