The West course was the site of the Johannesburg Golf Club when it first moved to the current premises in 1909. Over the years it has been upgraded and its major revamping was in 1999.The course has since been further improved with the Stream Rehabilitation Project, wich was undertaken in 2002 to arrest erosion of the stream beds and reinforce the banks of the spectacular water course running from west to east through the property. It was voted the most improved course in 2000 by The Compleat Golfer magazine.

The 4th hole is regarded as the signature hole. A tributary of the Jukskei River fronts the green and is very much in play along the left hand side of the fairway. The hole, as is the West course itself, is enchanting against the backdrop of Linksfield Ridge.

The West Course, in comparison to the East Course,  is a fine example of how two layouts in close proximity can still create quite different, but vastly enjoyable golfing experiences. 
While its beautiful sweeping fairways and generous sized greens inspire joy and confidence, the player who strays from them will quickly find trees, water or other frustration in uncompromising abundance. But coming back from trouble is also a pleasure in itself, with a hard fought scramble for par sometimes bringing as much satisfaction as a well played two-club. 

Although measuring a few hundred meters less in overall length than its neighbour, the West Course doesn’t seem to play much shorter. Experienced golfers may find the easier holes a touch more forgiving, but the thrill of going for birdies is often tempered with staring disaster in the face and taking just punishment for even a small inaccuracy.

Players of every level will find much to delight in and many reasons to return to Royal West.