Top 10 Best Golf Courses in Brentwood

Golf in Brentwood and Williamson County

Brentwood's scenic landscape of rolling hills, mature hardwood forests, and gentle creeks provides an ideal setting for golf. The city and surrounding Williamson County are home to some of the finest private clubs in Tennessee, along with public and semi-private courses that welcome players of every skill level. With a long playing season stretching from early spring through late fall, golfers enjoy ample opportunities to hit the links.

Golf also plays an important social and business role in Brentwood. Many corporate executives working in the Maryland Farms office district or Cool Springs use the course for networking, client entertainment, and charity events. Here are the ten best golf courses for Brentwood golfers.

1. Governors Club

Governors Club is one of Brentwood's most prestigious private communities, featuring a championship course designed by Greg Norman. The layout winds through rolling terrain with dramatic elevation changes, strategic bunkering, and immaculate conditioning. Members enjoy a refined clubhouse, practice facilities, and an exclusive residential setting.

2. Brentwood Country Club

Brentwood Country Club is a longtime social anchor of the community. Its classic parkland course offers tree-lined fairways and well-maintained greens that reward accuracy. The club is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, active social calendar, swimming and tennis amenities, and strong junior golf programs.

3. Nashville Golf and Athletic Club

Located in Brentwood, Nashville Golf and Athletic Club offers a challenging layout with water hazards, undulating greens, and scenic views. The club combines golf with fitness, tennis, and dining amenities, making it a full lifestyle destination for members. Its welcoming culture appeals to both serious golfers and social members.

4. Old Natchez Country Club

Situated in nearby Franklin, Old Natchez Country Club features a Gary Roger Baird design set along the Harpeth River. Its natural setting, wide variety of hole designs, and excellent conditioning make it a favorite among serious players. The club's dining and social programs foster a close-knit membership.

5. Vanderbilt Legends Club

Vanderbilt Legends Club in Franklin offers two championship courses, the North and South, designed by Bob Cupp and Tom Kite. The club has hosted professional and collegiate events and serves as home to Vanderbilt University's golf teams. Its practice facilities are among the best in the region.

6. Westhaven Golf Club

Part of the Westhaven community in Franklin, this club offers a scenic course with rolling hills and thoughtfully placed hazards. Its residential golf community model appeals to families who want golf, pools, fitness, and walkable neighborhood amenities in one location.

7. Harpeth Hills Golf Course

Just north of Brentwood near Percy Warner Park, Harpeth Hills is one of Nashville's most popular public courses. It offers a challenging and well-maintained layout at accessible rates. Its proximity makes it a convenient choice for Brentwood residents who prefer public play without a club membership.

8. Forrest Crossing Golf Course

Forrest Crossing in Franklin is a well-regarded public course featuring a Gary Roger Baird design with the Harpeth River coming into play on several holes. Its friendly atmosphere, reasonable green fees, and solid conditioning make it a dependable weekday option for local golfers.

9. Gaylord Springs Golf Links

Located near the Gaylord Opryland Resort, Gaylord Springs is a Scottish links-style course designed by Larry Nelson. Its limestone bluffs, wetlands, and open fairways create a distinctive experience. The course is popular for corporate outings and visiting guests, offering resort-level service.

10. Hermitage Golf Course

Hermitage Golf Course features two acclaimed layouts, the President's Reserve and the General's Retreat, along the Cumberland River. Known for exceptional conditioning and having hosted professional tour events, it is one of the best public golf destinations in Tennessee and well worth the drive from Brentwood.

Golf Trends in the Brentwood Area

Golf participation has grown significantly in recent years, with more young players, women, and families joining the game. Technology-enhanced practice, including launch monitors and simulator bays, has become increasingly popular, allowing golfers to train year-round. Several clubs in the region have invested in renovations to greens, bunkers, and practice areas to meet modern expectations.

Junior golf programs are thriving in Williamson County, supported by strong high school teams and youth leagues. Sustainability is also a growing focus, with clubs adopting water conservation practices, native plantings, and wildlife-friendly course management.

How to Choose the Right Course

Consider your goals. Private clubs like Governors Club and Brentwood Country Club offer exclusivity, social programming, and premium conditions but require membership commitments. Public courses such as Harpeth Hills and Forrest Crossing provide flexibility and value. Semi-private and resort options such as Gaylord Springs are ideal for occasional rounds and corporate events. Also consider practice facilities, instruction availability, and family amenities.

Final Thoughts

Brentwood's golf scene reflects the area's natural beauty and vibrant community life. Whether you are a scratch golfer seeking a championship challenge or a beginner looking for a friendly place to learn, these ten courses offer outstanding experiences within easy reach of home. Grab your clubs and enjoy some of the best golf Middle Tennessee has to offer.