Shirley Plantation
Virginia's oldest plantation, operating since 1613, offering a deep dive into colonial history and family legacy.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tour
Shirley Plantation
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate tour
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Virginia's oldest plantation, operating since 1613, offering a deep dive into colonial history and family legacy.
"Truly a gem in examining Colonial and United States history, transporting you back in time."
🎟️ Purchase Tickets at Gift Shop
Buy your admission tickets at the gift shop upon arrival. Grounds-only access is cheaper than a full house tour.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Don't miss the chance to wander the expansive grounds and admire the historic outbuildings.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Manor House
Main House
Explore the stunning 1723 Georgian manor, a testament to colonial architecture and family legacy.
Ancient Oak Trees
Behind the Manor House
Stand beneath magnificent trees, some estimated to be over 450 years old, offering a glimpse of timeless nature.
The James River Views
Riverfront
Enjoy sweeping vistas of the James River, a picturesque backdrop to this historic estate.
Historic Outbuildings
Grounds
Discover various outbuildings, including the ice house and stable, each with its own story to tell.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Oldest Family Business in America
Plan Your Visit Wisely
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Purchase Tickets at Gift Shop
Buy your admission tickets at the gift shop upon arrival. Grounds-only access is cheaper than a full house tour.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Don't miss the chance to wander the expansive grounds and admire the historic outbuildings.
🚗 Easy Access from Rt. 5
Shirley Plantation is conveniently located about 2 miles off the main highway along the historic Rt. 5.
🚗 Consider Wedding Car Hire
Vintage car services are available for special events, adding a touch of elegance to your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Purchase Tickets at Gift Shop
Buy your admission tickets at the gift shop upon arrival. Grounds-only access is cheaper than a full house tour.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Don't miss the chance to wander the expansive grounds and admire the historic outbuildings.
🚗 Easy Access from Rt. 5
Shirley Plantation is conveniently located about 2 miles off the main highway along the historic Rt. 5.
🚗 Consider Wedding Car Hire
Vintage car services are available for special events, adding a touch of elegance to your visit.
🌳 Respectful Exploration
Remember to be respectful of the historical significance and the fact that the family still resides here.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Shirley Plantation as a gem for exploring early American history, highlighting its status as the oldest continuously run family business and the detailed, engaging tours. The impressive architecture, ancient trees, and river views are frequently mentioned positives. Some guests noted that the gardens were disappointing and overgrown, and the family's continued residence means only the ground floor of the house is accessible.
"This property is truly a gem in examining Colonial and United States history. Being the oldest continuously-run family business since 1614, the surroundings made one feel as if they were transported back in time. The tour guide provided a detailed history of the various peoples who occupied the property as well as a detailed history of the family that resided here for centuries.
Overall, this is an essential stop for those who love to explore the sites of Early American history."
Cole Mellinger
"An impressive plantation on the river. Many outbuildings to view.
Purchase tickets at the gift shop. $11 to walk the grounds and over $20 to tour the house ground floor. The family still lives in the house so the upstairs is closed off.
The gardens were disappointing as they were overgrown. It would be nice if a community group would volunteer to help preserve the gardens as they were probably very nice at some time in the past.
There are two magnificent old trees behind the house. The tour guide says they are over 450 years old.
There is approximately a 2 mile drive from the main highway."
Cathie Bales
"An absolute gem of the Rt 5 historic sites, and was not busy at all when I went. Highly recommend for the gorgeous architecture, 400 year old trees, and sweeping river views."
cherry
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shirley Plantation is located approximately 2 miles from the main highway along the historic Route 5 in Charles City County, Virginia. It's easily accessible by car.
Yes, ample parking is available for visitors at Shirley Plantation.
While public transportation options are limited, many visitors drive to Shirley Plantation. Ride-sharing services might be an option depending on your starting location.
The drive to Shirley Plantation is scenic, especially along the historic Route 5, which is lined with other significant historical sites.
Yes, Shirley Plantation is part of the historic James River Plantations trail, making it convenient to visit alongside other historical sites in the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices vary. Grounds-only access is available for a lower fee, while a full house tour is more expensive. Check their official website for current pricing.
Tickets can be purchased at the gift shop upon your arrival at Shirley Plantation.
Special events or days might offer free admission to the grounds, as noted by visitors. It's advisable to check their schedule for any promotions.
The family still resides in the house, so only the ground floor is typically open for tours.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Shirley Plantation website for the most up-to-date information on operating hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors can explore the historic manor house (ground floor), admire ancient oak trees, enjoy river views, and discover various outbuildings like the ice house.
Yes, guided tours of the manor house are typically offered, providing detailed historical insights from knowledgeable guides.
Shirley Plantation offers an educational experience about American history that can be engaging for children, especially elementary school age.
Photography is generally allowed on the grounds. Specific rules for interior photography of the manor house may apply, so it's best to inquire upon arrival.
Shirley Plantation is Virginia's first plantation, established in 1613, and has been continuously operated by the same family for 11 generations. It offers a deep dive into colonial and early American history.
📸 📸 Photography
The manor house exterior, the ancient oak trees, and the views of the James River are prime locations for stunning photographs.
Typically, photography inside historic homes is restricted to protect the artifacts and interiors. It's advisable to confirm the policy with your tour guide.
Visitors often capture architectural details of the manor, the grandeur of the old trees, and the scenic river landscapes. Wedding car photos are also a popular choice.
While dedicated photography tours are not commonly advertised, the general tours offer ample opportunities to capture the beauty of the estate.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset can offer beautiful lighting for exterior shots of the manor and grounds. Midday can be harsh but still offers good light for details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The guided tours, while detailed, are often presented in an engaging manner that can hold the attention of elementary-aged children. Consider focusing on the stories of the people who lived and worked at Shirley, including the enslaved individuals, to provide a more complete historical picture. The ancient trees and river views can also serve as natural points of interest for younger visitors. While the house tour is limited to the ground floor, the overall experience is rich with historical context that can spark curiosity and learning.
🏛️ History Buffs
The meticulously preserved manor house, built in 1723, provides a tangible connection to the architectural styles and domestic life of the 18th century. The site's continuous operation for over 400 years means that its historical layers are exceptionally deep. Visitors can explore various outbuildings that illustrate the functional aspects of plantation life, from agriculture to domestic services.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Living Piece of History
This deep-rooted legacy means that visiting Shirley is like stepping back in time, offering a tangible connection to the colonial era and beyond. The manor house itself, built in 1723, stands as a magnificent example of Georgian architecture, having witnessed centuries of American development, including the Civil War. The plantation's history is intertwined with the stories of all who lived and worked there, from the West family who first settled the land to the enslaved people who toiled the fields. Guides often provide a comprehensive narrative, touching upon the complex social and economic structures of the time. This multi-faceted history makes Shirley Plantation an essential stop for anyone interested in understanding the foundations of American society.
Beyond the main house, the grounds are dotted with historic outbuildings, each serving a purpose in the plantation's daily operations. These structures, along with the ancient trees and the serene James River backdrop, contribute to the immersive historical experience.
Experiencing Shirley Plantation Today
Beyond the house tour, the expansive grounds invite leisurely exploration. You can wander among the historic outbuildings, including the ice house and stable, gaining insight into the practicalities of plantation life.
For those interested in specific events, Shirley Plantation has also been a venue for celebrations, with classic car services available for grand exits, adding a touch of vintage charm.
While the gardens might be a bit overgrown at times, the overall experience is consistently praised as educational and impressive, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts. 
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