Courtesy of the club
Overview
Perhaps the most exclusive club in Kentucky has found its way onto our ranking of Kentucky’s Best Golf Courses for the first time—thanks to finally obtaining enough ballots to be considered. For those fortunate to receive an invitation, you’ll encounter a Donald Ross gem built in the 1920s—with undulating and typically elevated greens that usually run as some of the fastest in the state. Architect Ron Prichard performed a renovation in recent years to restore a number of bunkers, and over time the routing has been flipped—so the closing stretch on the front nine provide some of the course’s most challenging holes. Walking is encouraged at Idle Hour, with subtle land movement in the fairways, water and well-placed bunkers presenting a stout driving test.
About
Awards
Ranking history:
Best in State: inaugural ranking.
2023-'24 ranking: 3rd.
Panelists
Ratings from our panel of 1,900 course-ranking panelists
100 GREATEST/BEST IN STATE SCORES
Shot Options
Character
Challenge
Layout Variety
Fun
Aesthetics
Conditioning
Reviews
Review
“Solid Donald Ross course with a few very memorable holes. I think it's the second best course in KY. Fabulous greens that help define the course."
Read More2019
Review
“Parkland course with minimal play. Always in good shape with good variety. If you can get on it is a gem"
Read More2019
Review
“The best country club in the state. Clubhouse is beautiful, the food is excellent, and it also possesses the only Donald Ross design in KY. They did an excellent job with their restoration a few years back. If you get the invite, go!"
Read More2018
Review
“Tough! Brutally tough!"
Read More2018
Review
“Idle Hour is the only Donald Ross designed golf course in Kentucky. Located in the heart of Lexington, Kentucky, Idle Hour is a wonderful place to play golf. It is the typical Ross design with interesting elevated greens and demanding short game shots. This course just makes you think of the history of golf. The bunkers are placed in areas where you would like to hit your tee shots. Simply brilliant design. The clubhouse and overall feel of the property is extremely pleasant and makes you want to hang out. If you are in Lexington, try to find a member to get on (it's a tough get)."
Read More2018
Readers
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