New Kent County, Virginia

VIRGINIA.WIKI

New Kent County, Virginia

Virginia local guide

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COUNTY IN VIRGINIA

New Kent County

Colonial-era landmarks, river country, wineries, and easygoing outdoor escapes between Richmond and Williamsburg.

Region
Virginia Peninsula / Tidewater

Type
County

County seat
New Kent

Known for
Colonial history, wineries, parks, and rivers

Between Richmond, Virginia and Williamsburg, Virginia, New Kent County offers a quieter countryside visit shaped by colonial landmarks, vineyards, wooded trails, and waterways. Its visitor guide highlights wineries, cycling, equestrian activities, golf, parks, and historic sites; the county tourism office recommends starting at its Visitors and Commerce Center near Interstate 64 Exit 211.

The county’s history is visible at St. Peter’s Church, the courthouse grounds, and the New Kent Ordinary, while its parks and preserves offer a change of pace outdoors. New Kent County was first mentioned in Virginia General Assembly records in 1654, according to the county’s historical account.

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Why visit New Kent County?

New Kent is a good fit for travelers who want a historic stop or a relaxed countryside day between the Richmond area and the Historic Triangle. Rather than one dense attraction district, its visitor offerings are spread among landmarks, vineyards, parks, rural roads, and river settings.

History is part of the landscape here: St. Peter’s Parish dates to the 17th century, and the county’s courthouse site has served as a civic center since the colonial period. For a different kind of outing, local wineries, nature trails, and wildlife areas make room for tastings, walks, and bird-watching. Check individual sites for current visiting arrangements before setting out.

What to see and do

St. Peter’s Church

Visit the historic parish church associated with the 1759 marriage of George Washington and Martha Dandridge Custis. The tourism guide advises visitors to check the church’s own information or call ahead before planning a visit.

New Kent Courthouse and Ordinary

Explore the historic courthouse grounds, where the old courthouse dates to 1909, and learn about the New Kent Ordinary, an early tavern and inn on the courthouse site. Confirm current access and opening arrangements before visiting.

County wineries

New Kent County’s tourism guide features New Kent Winery, Saudé Creek Vineyards, Jolene Family Winery, and Gauthier Vineyard. Tasting availability and event schedules vary, so check winery websites before traveling.

Wahrani Nature Trail

Walk forest trails through a county park described by the tourism guide as having marked old-growth trees, an overlook, and colonial graves. Check county information for current trail access and conditions.

Parks and wildlife areas

County green spaces include community parks and preserves. The tourism guide also describes wetlands and wildlife habitat at places including Vandell Preserve at Cumberland Marsh and Game Farm Marsh Wildlife Management Area; check the managing agency for access rules and seasonal restrictions.

History and character

New Kent County’s recorded colonial history reaches back to 1654. The county account describes its earlier inclusion within Charles River County and says the modern boundaries took shape in 1766 through an exchange of land with James City County.

The historic core centers on the courthouse grounds and St. Peter’s Church. The tourism guide says the original courthouse was established at the current site in 1695; after earlier buildings were lost to fires, the surviving “old courthouse” was built in 1909. The restored old jail on the grounds houses the New Kent Historical Society. The nearby New Kent Ordinary, built by Colonel William Bassett after he donated courthouse land, served as a tavern and inn.

The Virginia Department of Historic Resources lists sites across the county on its historic-register page, including New Kent Ordinary, Emmaus Baptist Church, Crump’s Mill and Millpond, and George W. Watkins School. The list is a useful starting point for understanding the county’s broader historic landscape; listed properties are not necessarily open to visitors.

Planning a visit

New Kent County is best explored by car, with stops spaced across a largely rural area. The county tourism site identifies its Visitors and Commerce Center on the north side of Interstate 64 at Exit 211 as a place to begin; verify current visitor-center information before making it your first stop.

For a history-focused outing, combine the courthouse area with St. Peter’s Church, checking in advance for access and visiting arrangements. For a countryside day, choose a winery or trail and confirm current hours, reservations, events, and any restrictions directly with the site. County visitor resources also link to attractions, events, parks and facilities, and the Visitors Center.

Nearby places and attractions

Williamsburg, Virginia
Explore the Historic Triangle’s colonial-era attractions and visitor services.

Richmond, Virginia
The state capital offers museums, historic neighborhoods, and city dining.

James City County, Virginia
A neighboring county with access to Williamsburg-area destinations and outdoor recreation.

Charles City County, Virginia
Continue along the Virginia Peninsula through another county with deep colonial-era connections.

York County, Virginia
Visit the Yorktown area and sites connected with the Revolutionary War.

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References

External links

• Visit New Kent — New Kent County Tourism
• New Kent County visitor information
• New Kent County historic-register listings — Virginia Department of Historic Resources