Westminster National Golf Course

At a mere 45 minute drive from Baltimore City and just over an hour from the Rockville area, this lesser-known course in Northern/Central MD is well-worth the trip. Westminster National is inexpensive, rarely crowded, has a kind down-to-earth staff, an interesting and challenging layout, and is usually in good shape (you won't find lightning-quick greens here on the average day, but you'll be thankful for it). The only cons that can be found are that it takes a bit of experience to know where to play your shots, the course is somewhat secluded, and some people don't like the small "turtleback" greens (however I actually like that feature, as the small greens make the short course more challenging). Also- WALKERS TAKE NOTE, the course is very difficult to walk, especially using a push cart. It is extremely hilly terrain, and there are a couple of longer walks between holes. I have walked this course dozens of times, but it is a bear for sure.

As my title suggests, Westminster National is a completely unique golf course and therefore has gained both die-hard fans and some critics. To many (myself included), this course is an excellent test of course management, patience, accuracy, and the short game. What the course lacks in length and bunkering, it makes up for in a layout that demands accuracy. Some golfers (mostly first-time visitors) claim the course is quite tricky, almost unfairly so, with tight fairways, small greens, blind doglegs, and many holes where just a slight miss in the wrong spot is disastrous. Typically though, after several rounds (or when playing with someone who knows the course well), the course becomes much easier to navigate.

The photo may not look like the weather was "perfect" on my most recent outing to Westminster National, but I challenge anyone to find a better setting for golf than these conditions yesterday. It was misty and had rained the night before, and the greens were on the slower side but lush and smooth (one benefit of the course I've yet to mention is that it drains extremely quickly, so playing this course during or soon after a heavy rain is more do-able than at other courses). There was little to no wind, it was about 62 degrees, and there was a general mystic look to the course and the surrounding countryside (see pics). There were probably less than 30 people total on the course, and my twosome never saw a group ahead of us or behind us. It had rained multiple inches the night before, and while the carts were restricted to paths, the course was not sloppy or muddy whatsoever.

I recommend this course based solely on the value and scenery, but I bet that first-time players will come back for the golf as well. Westminster National is one of my favorites in central Maryland!

One of my favorite courses. Amazing value for the money. However this time was different. On hole 10 I was at the tee box looking down the Fairway. The grounds person mowing came straight for me, then turned and continued to mow for about 10 minutes as I stared daggers. I don't know what he was thinking but unacceptable.

You want to ride this course. I'm a walker but not at this place. They have new carts which was nice. Greens were in good shape, rolling well. Played Sunday morning and got around in under 4 hours. They have a new food shack out on the course were several holes intersect which was nice. The only thing I didn't like was that although the official golf season started 3/15 in Maryland they didn't have all the tee's out yet, starter told me they'd have that by next weekend. It's an easy/moderate course if you know where you're hitting the ball, if you tend to spray the ball a lot then bring a few extra balls with you.

Played the course twice the past week. Greens on the front nine were very fast. Got a little more normal on the back half. Course is in good shape.

Westminster National Golf course has been a great place to go for winter/off season golf. The staff is friendly and they take care of the course. It is well maintained. By far the best conditioned course we've played this off season. The price can't be beat. Thanks to the staff for the obvious pride they have in their course.

Overall good course rate of play way to long waiting 2-3 deep at a tee box

Played Westminster GC... 3 times this winter and the course has been great. The greens are in fantastic shape. The rough isn't overly thick and the fairways are very good as well. A good time awaits most golfers who may have the need to get out and play.

Pace of play was super slow had two 4 Somes in front of me the front 4 Somes was really slow

Had been wanting to check out this course for a while. Had a discount through GN but would pay full price. Fun layout and challenging greens. Good food and drink selection at the clubhouse. Friendly staff.

First time playing. What a steal at the current rate and with GolfPass! Course was in great shape. Greens were also in very good condition. Very friendly and welcoming staff shared knowledge of course and what to avoid.

Not a long course, but very tough with lots of elevation changes and difficult “mounded” greens that were fast, but true. Definitely want to come back and play again!