It’s no secret that George Washington has serious connections to Virginia.

Between his association to the Inn at Warner Hall and the Historic Christ Church, it’s no surprise he was familiar with the Northern Neck, even referring to it as “the Garden of Virginia.”

Fifty fives miles from Richmond, 75 miles from Washington DC and 80 miles from Norfolk, the Northern Neck is central to many of the larger Virginia cities and an ideal location for visitors from all over the state. It’s a great day trip for guests at Warner Hall. And it’s rich in history!

The area was originally inhabited by eight of Virginia’s Indian tribes that established along the shores. Over time, the rivers and creeks of Northern Neck drew explorers and residents. John Smith once referred to it as “a place heaven and earth never agreed better to frame man’s habitation.”

Even fifth United States President, James Monroe, was born in Westmoreland County in 1798.

For awhile, the area was known as the “Athens of the New World” during the Colonial era for the nation’s founding families who lived there, such as the Washingtons and Lees.

But there’s more to the area – Tappahannock, Urbanna, Kilmarnock, Irvington, White Stone – than its history.

At present, the Colonial architecture, small-town charm, eight wineries, seventeen museums, historic sites, marinas, abundance of restaurants and retail shops all contribute to the valuable assets that drive visitors to the Northern Neck.

It’s recognized for several restaurants, mostly specializing in fresh seafood out of the Bay, making the Northern Neck an excellent destination for the modern day “foodie.”

It offers several preserved historic sites, the Chesapeake Bay Wine Trail, scenic back roads and all kinds of birding, cycling and water trails.

For those drawn to the water, the the Potomac River, Rappahannock River, the Chesapeake Bay and their tributaries provide a haven for boaters and water enthusiasts, and have supported the fishing industry for generations.

The Northern Neck is a perfect day trip for Warner Hall guests of all ages with recreational activities that include birding, boat rentals, cycling, fishing, markets, golf, hunting, marinas, as well as popular nature and water trails.

Contact 804.333.1919 or email nntc@northernneck.org for more information, directions or services in the area.