Belmont Recreation Center occupies the restored Hermitage Country Club at 1600 Hilliard Road in Henrico, Virginia, maintaining its formal atmosphere while serving as a premier public recreation facility. This elegant venue combines exceptional amenities including six clay and two asphalt tennis courts widely recognized as some of Richmond’s finest public courts, multiple ballrooms accommodating events from intimate gatherings to 120-person celebrations, and scenic golf course views operated by First Tee. The center successfully balances its heritage as a private country club with accessible community programming, offering everything from chess clubs to fitness classes while preserving the refined ambiance that makes it a sought-after wedding and special event venue.
The recreation center distinguishes itself through maintenance standards typically associated with exclusive private clubs, particularly evident in the meticulously kept clay tennis courts that draw players from across Richmond. The beautifully preserved interior features the Grand Ballroom divisible into two 60-person spaces, the intimate 20-person Hermitage Room, and a 30-person Sunroom, all supported by a full prep kitchen and large patio overlooking the golf course. Recent additions include a Community Game Room equipped with free arcade games, Foosball, Skeeball, and a Nintendo Switch connected to a twelve-foot projection screen, creating multi-generational entertainment options that complement the facility’s formal event spaces.
Belmont Recreation Center occupies the restored Hermitage Country Club at 1600 Hilliard Road in Henrico, Virginia, maintaining its formal atmosphere while serving as a premier public recreation facility. This elegant venue combines exceptional amenities including six clay and two asphalt tennis courts widely recognized as some of Richmond’s finest public courts, multiple ballrooms accommodating events from intimate gatherings to 120-person celebrations, and scenic golf course views operated by First Tee. The center successfully balances its heritage as a private country club with accessible community programming, offering everything from chess clubs to fitness classes while preserving the refined ambiance that makes it a sought-after wedding and special event venue.
The recreation center distinguishes itself through maintenance standards typically associated with exclusive private clubs, particularly evident in the meticulously kept clay tennis courts that draw players from across Richmond. The beautifully preserved interior features the Grand Ballroom divisible into two 60-person spaces, the intimate 20-person Hermitage Room, and a 30-person Sunroom, all supported by a full prep kitchen and large patio overlooking the golf course. Recent additions include a Community Game Room equipped with free arcade games, Foosball, Skeeball, and a Nintendo Switch connected to a twelve-foot projection screen, creating multi-generational entertainment options that complement the facility’s formal event spaces.
Six meticulously maintained clay courts provide playing surfaces comparable to Richmond’s finest private clubs, offering public access to premium tennis facilities. Courts close at sunset without lighting, limiting evening play but preserving the traditional clay court experience.
Two hard courts supplement the clay surfaces, providing alternative playing options during wet conditions when clay courts become unplayable. USTA programs reserve several courts daily, affecting public availability during peak times.
The 120-person capacity Grand Ballroom serves as the premier event space, divisible into Ballroom A and Ballroom B for simultaneous 60-person gatherings. High ceilings, elegant décor, and professional lighting create formal atmospheres suitable for weddings and corporate events.
This intimate 20-person community room provides meeting space for small groups, clubs, and business gatherings requiring privacy. The room maintains the facility’s historic character while offering modern amenities for presentations and workshops.
Natural light floods this 30-person space creating bright, welcoming environments for daytime events and social gatherings. Views of the surrounding golf course enhance the ambiance for luncheons and afternoon receptions.
Free entertainment options include vintage arcade games, Foosball, Skeeball, and modern video gaming through the large-screen Nintendo Switch setup. Open access requires only a free pass, making entertainment accessible to all community members regardless of economic status.
First Tee operates the adjoining 18-hole golf course, driving range, short game area, and 18-hole putting course providing comprehensive golf amenities. Recent improvements to practice facilities enhance training opportunities for players of all skill levels.
Commercial kitchen facilities support catered events with complete food preparation and service capabilities. Professional equipment enables everything from simple refreshments to elaborate multi-course dinners.
The 175-space parking lot shared with the golf course accommodates large events while maintaining accessibility for regular recreation users. Ground-level access to all facilities ensures ADA compliance throughout the venue.
Free fitness classes operate on first-come, first-served basis with Group Exercise Access Pass registration required at the front desk. Programming focuses on health and wellness for older adults, though all ages can participate with proper registration.
Friday evening sessions from 6:30-8:30 PM teach chess fundamentals and etiquette to all ages through informal lessons. Registration through Henrico Police Athletic League provides free instruction for beginners through advanced players.
Special events like October’s Halloween celebration create family-friendly entertainment bringing the community together for seasonal festivities. These programs utilize multiple facility spaces creating comprehensive experiences beyond typical recreation offerings.
Drop-in activities require only free access passes obtained at the recreation center, removing financial barriers to participation. Regular schedules posted on calendars ensure consistent programming availability for community planning.
Various community groups utilize meeting spaces for regular gatherings, with car clubs and social organizations maintaining long-term relationships with the facility. The formal atmosphere and quality amenities attract groups seeking refined settings for their activities.
Competitive rental rates for the elegant spaces make Belmont accessible for weddings and special events typically requiring expensive private venues. The no-alcohol policy maintains family-friendly environments while potentially limiting some event types.
Facility Reservation Guide and Application materials streamline booking processes with clear capacity limits and requirements outlined. Youth Event Requirements ensure appropriate supervision and safety measures for minors’ celebrations.
Business hours Monday-Friday 8 AM-4:30 PM accommodate administrative needs and daytime programs. Extended rental hours until 10 PM weekdays and 11 PM weekends support evening events and social gatherings.
Consistently praised for politeness and professionalism, staff members enhance visitor experiences through attentive service. Long-term employees familiar with regular groups provide continuity and personalized attention to community members.
The combination of premium facilities at public recreation prices creates exceptional value compared to private clubs and commercial venues. Multiple reviewers note searching numerous wedding venues at higher costs without finding better facilities or service.
Meticulous upkeep of both interior spaces and outdoor facilities maintains country club ambiance despite public access. Regular improvements and updates, including recent driving range enhancements, demonstrate ongoing investment in facility quality.
The successful transformation from exclusive private club to inclusive public facility preserves architectural heritage while serving diverse community needs. This balance between formal atmosphere and accessible programming creates unique recreation opportunities unavailable at typical municipal facilities, establishing Belmont as a model for adaptive reuse of historic properties for public benefit while maintaining the elegance and quality that distinguished the original Hermitage Country Club.
