Bespoke Abingdon Holidays

Founded in 1778, Abingdon developed along the Great Valley Road, an important early route that carried settlers, travellers and commerce through Virginia’s frontier. Today, its 20-block downtown historic district – recognised by the US National Register of Historic Places – preserves more than two centuries of history, with hand-laid brick sidewalks, beautifully maintained buildings and a distinctive collection of Federal and 19th-century architecture. Independent shops, art galleries, locally owned restaurants and cultural landmarks line Main Street, offering a welcoming blend of small-town hospitality and traditional character.   

Wander along Main Street and Courthouse Hill to discover the architectural details that trace the town’s evolution from a frontier settlement into a regional centre. The historic Washington County Courthouse, built in 1868, stands among the district’s notable landmarks, while the Martha Washington Inn reflects the town’s rich past. Nearby, the Arts Depot occupies a restored railroad station where visitors can discover local artists and Appalachian crafts. And beyond downtown, outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Virginia Creeper Trail, a scenic multi-use route through wooded valleys, streams and rolling countryside, or venture into the nearby Blue Ridge Mountains for hiking, cycling and wildlife watching.  

On the cultural side, Abingdon is home to Barter Theatre, founded in 1933 and celebrated as one of the longest-running professional theatres in the United States. Its Main Street location places it at the heart of a vibrant local arts scene, while across town, visitors can also explore the Abingdon Muster Grounds, an important site in the American Revolutionary War, and discover the stories that shaped Southwest Virginia.