If you enjoy immersing yourself in history—or if you’re looking for a luxurious romantic getaway—the Inn at Warner Hall in Gloucester, Virginia, has you covered.
I stay at historical hotels and B&B’s all of the time, but since Warner Hall has been around for more than 350 years and has ties to the Father of our country, it truly stands out for its historical significance.
Tucked in the bend of the Severn River, and located near a number of major tourist attractions, this unique waterfront Bed and Breakfast offers a wonderful romantic escape for a historic weekend getaway.
Come along as I show you the timeless beauty and unparalleled hospitality that await you at the Inn at Warner Hall.
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Note: The Inn will be closed January and February 2025 for light renovations and refreshing. Reopening in March.
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Arriving At Warner Hall
As you turn into the long gravel driveway of the Inn at Warner Hall, don’t be surprised if you heart skips a beat when the graceful Colonial Revival mansion comes into focus.
Words that came to my mind upon seeing the iconic-columned portico were: Stunning. Magnificent. Amazing.
And that was before I even opened the door!
America turns 250 years old in 2026! Check out these posts that will help you plan a Revolutionary Road Trip.
A Peek Inside Warner Hall
Once you step into the broad central hall, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported into another time. A grand staircase rises up to a landing where it separates into two and leads you to the second floor guest rooms.
If you turn to your right as you enter Warner Hall, you’ll be in an expansive living room with comfortable period seating and checker boards on each end.
When I visited in December, there was also a Christmas tree and a blazing fire, which added a sense of comfort and over all “perfectness.”
If you turn left upon entering the foyer or central hall, you’ll find a cozy little parlor that is perfect for reading the newspaper or curling up with a book.
This was one of my favorite rooms because it felt like sitting in a best friend’s comfortable reading nook.
Adjacent to this parlor is the formal dining room, that features a beautiful chandelier hanging over the table, and vibrant red and gold wallpapered walls.
Do you enjoy staying at historic hotels? So do I! Take a look at my historic hotel reviews.
What To Expect at the Inn at Warner Hall
Check-In Process
The check-in process for me was an absolute breeze, with the innkeeper greeting me at the door, showing me my room (breathtaking), and giving me my keys.
Michael then gave me a tour of the entire house and pointed out places outside that I should visit. More on that later!
Parking
The Inn at Warner Hall has a circular driveway so unloading your luggage is easy and convenient. Cars then park in the center of the driveway once unloaded.
Room Details and Comfort
My room was named for the famous explorer, Meriwether Lewis, whose grandparents, John Lewis and Elizabeth Warner Lewis resided at Warner Hall during the later portion of the 18th Century.
The room was large, with a mahogany sleigh bed, and heart pine floors with oriental rugs. Views of the front pastures and stately entrance to historic Warner Hall could be seen from three sets of double windows.
I also had a lovely remote-controlled gas fireplace that was a wonderful touch on a chilly December day!
Michael delivered a bucket of ice and water to my room, and I also had access to a small refrigerator stocked with soft drinks, water and snacks.
And the bathroom? Spacious, with ceramic tile and molded marble touches. I had a 2-person whirlpool tub as well as a large walk-in shower, and took advantage of the thick luxurious robe hanging in my closet.
Other Accommodations
The Inn has 11 guest rooms, two of which are located on the west wing and accept pets. There are suites on the third floor that would be wonderful for longer stays!
The most expensive room is the Washington Suite that includes a king-size canopy bed, 11-foot ceilings, and custom crafted crown moldings.
Located on the ground floor, this suite offers guests an outside entrance and easy access to the Inn’s common areas and lovely grounds.
The price for this suite is around $450 depending on the time of year.
Other rooms start at $375.
Breakfast Delights
Breakfast was out of this world, starting with a very large bowl of fresh fruit. The main meal is made to order, and since I’m not a big breakfast eater, I just went with cheesy scrambled eggs, which were delicious.
(And the bacon was hands down the best bacon I’ve ever eaten).
Michael also brought out bite-sized blueberry muffins that were still warm and melted in my mouth.
What to Experience at the Inn
On-Site Amenities
There are many complimentary amenities at Warner Hall and more are being added.
In addition to bookshelves of books and movies to turn to on a rainy day, there is plenty to keep you occupied outside including a giant outdoor chessboard and lots of outdoor seating to just sit and relax.
If you want go exploring by water, you can use one of their kayaks, and if sticking to land is more your thing, the Inn has bikes available.
Hiking, fishing, birdwatching, croquet, horseshoes and volleyball are also available, as is simply napping in the hammock!
A scenic walking trail with wayside signs to describe the history of the land is in the works.
Don’t forget to write in the journal that you will find in your room. Mine was a lovely leather-bound and well-worn one that was fun to read.
Exploring the Grounds
The grounds include a dock and access to the Severn River, as well as a beautiful boathouse which is really a cute little cottage that boasts a bar and comfortable-looking seating area.
Also located on the grounds is an old cemetery that holds the remains of some of the original owners of Warner Hall, including George Washington’s great-grandparents.
Need tickets for nearby Busch Gardens and Water Country USA?
Nearby Attractions
Warner Hall is close to:
- Yorktown (16 minutes)
- Busch Gardens (30 minutes)
- Williamsburg (40 minutes)
There is a shopping center nearby with a wonderful antique shop called Marketplace Antiques that I enjoyed browsing through. The small town of Gloucester also has dining and shopping opportunities.
Travel Information
Getting There
Directions: Take 64 W to Exit 250B Ft. Eustis/Yorktown. At the end of the exit ramp take a left. At the next traffic light take a right onto Ft. Eustis Boulevard. Follow Ft. Eustis until it ends at the U.S. 17 traffic light. Turn left onto U.S. 17 North. Follow U.S. 17 North across Coleman Bridge (Toll $2). Travel approximately 6.5 miles after the toll plaza. Turn right on Va. 614/Featherbed Lane. Travel 2.3 miles and turn right onto Warner Hall Road/Va. 629. Warner Hall is one mile on the right at 4750 Warner Hall Road.
History of Warner Hall
Warner Hall is located on land originally patented around 1650 by Augustine Warner. The first house was constructed in 1674, and in 1676, the well known rebel Nathaniel Bacon spent time there.
It was the first brick home built North of the York River, which included a brick stable with three chimneys, the only one in the history of Gloucester County.
A second house, built around 1740, was tragically destroyed by fire in 1849, and beautifully rebuilt.
Interested in visiting Revolutionary War sites?
✅ St. John’s Church in Richmond, VA
✅ The Boston Tea Party
✅ Hanover Tavern
The two families associated with the property — the Warners and the Lewises –were among the most prominent families in Colonial Virginia.
Additionally, some of the most recognized names in American history are direct descendants of Augustine Warner including George Washington, Robert E. Lee, and Captain Meriwether Lewis, renowned American explorer of the Lewis & Clark expedition.
Queen Elizabeth II was a direct descendent of Augustine Warner through the Bowes-Lyon family and the Earl of Strathmore. In England, Warner Hall is referred to as “The home of the Queen’s American ancestors.”
George Washington was a frequent visitor to his grandparent’s plantation.
Related Post: The Beekman Arms Inn: Rest your head where George Washington slept.
Need tickets to Colonial Williamsburg? Check prices here.
Final Thoughts on the Inn at Warner Hall
If you are planning to travel this year, and want a place in the country, close to a body of water, where you can soak up some history and be close to some major tourist attractions, you’ve found your spot!
With its charming accommodations and welcoming atmosphere, Warner Hall is the perfect spot to unwind and immerse yourself in the rich history of the area.
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Like History? Read about the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia.
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