Stonehouse Golf Club
Toano, Virginia
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.
History & Heritage
Stonehouse was Mike Strantz\'s first solo design, winning Golf Digest\'s Best New Upscale Public Course in 1996. Strantz drew on Scottish and English heathland traditions, aiming to complement nature so closely the layout would be indistinguishable from the landscape. Near Williamsburg, about 40 miles east of Richmond.
Companion course to Royal New Kent (1997) — the pair offers contrasting styles: Scottish heathland vs. Irish links. Strantz completed both in back-to-back years.
Signature Holes
A reachable par 5 with a downhill approach to a dramatic amphitheater-style green. Gives aggressive players a legitimate birdie opportunity to close — rewarding boldness after 17 holes of strategic challenge.
What to Expect
Blind and semi-blind shots are a defining feature throughout. Rolling, rugged terrain with elevation changes dramatic for Coastal Virginia. None of the par-5 pins are visible from the tees. Quirky, artistic, and rewards imagination over mechanical precision.
Public at $40-75 near Williamsburg. Play it twice — the second round is dramatically better.
Playing Tips
First-timers need a yardage book or GPS — blind shots everywhere. Trust the design: Strantz\'s lines are fair once you know where to aim.
Imagination and creativity trump mechanical precision throughout.
Highlights
- ✓ Mike Strantz companion to Royal New Kent
- ✓ Scottish links and English heathland inspiration
- ✓ Dramatic elevation changes for Coastal Virginia
Frequently Asked Questions
How does it relate to Royal New Kent?
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