Rural Living with Easy Access to City Life in Hanover County, Virginia

Venture just 12 miles north of Richmond – between the beautiful Chickahominy and Pamunkey Rivers – and you’ll find Hanover County, home to the authentic railroad town of Ashland and Randolph-Macon College, the oldest Methodist College in the United States. Pay a visit to this peaceful community, which, prior to the arrival of the first English settlers, served as a hunting ground for the Pamunkey and Chickahominy Indians. In the late 1600s, the area was settled by plantation owners and others involved in growing tobacco. Hanover County was officially formed in 1720, and named for King George I of England, who was Elector of Hannover in Germany when he assumed the British throne.

Formerly a summer resort area, Hanover is now one of the fastest-growing counties in the state, with approximately 86,000 residents. Enjoy the true small-town appeal of Ashland, where locally-owned shops, restaurants and a quaint town center recall the feel of a simpler time. Witness the mixture of historic charm and modern living in Pebble Creek, or the luxury brick homes with riverfront and golf-course views in River Run at Country Club Hills.

Past Glories and Present Thrills in Hanover, VA

Tour Scotchtown, the family home of Virginia’s first governor, one of Hanover County‘s most famous former residents: Patrick Henry. Visit Hanover Courthouse Complex, where this spirited orator successfully argued the 1763 Parson's Cause Case against the British crown. Rejoice in one of the nation’s most fundamental civil liberties at Historic Polegreen Church, birthplace of the Great Awakening of religious freedom, led by Samuel Davies and the Hanover Dissenters. Pay tribute to the U.S. military at Richmond National Battlefield, which has four sites commemorating Civil War battles.

Looking to pump up the adrenaline? Visit Kings Dominion, a 400-acre amusement park open from March through October, featuring one of the largest roller coaster collections on the East Coast as well as a 19-acre water park. Throughout the entire year, children of all ages – including the young at heart – are invited to Ashland Berry Farm, where you can pick your own strawberries and pumpkins or enjoy a hayride. For a more sophisticated adventure, savor a glass of premier Virginia vintage at James River Cellars Winery. Plan to visit during Memorial Day for Hanover County Heritage Day, or honor the county’s most famous crop at the Hanover Tomato Festival, celebrated each July. Discover the wholesome fun, adventure and relaxation to be had in Hanover County, VA.

Look into Hanover VA hotels and lodging located in the Northside/Ashland region.

Plan for Hanover VA Travel with our Helpful Guide

Tap into the authentic heart and soul of Virginia in Hanover County. Our comprehensive travel guide features helpful tips on everything from Civil War battlefields to roller coasters, water parks, hayrides and wineries. Start planning your trip now!