Hollymead House

One of the area’s most historic inns, Hollymead House was originally constructed in 1780 on a large farm near the Rivanna River, just 8 miles north of Charlottesville. During the Revolutionary War, it housed Hessian soldiers captured at Saratoga and marched to obsolescence in Albemarle. A century and a half later, it became a private residence of long-time University of Virginia Dean, B.F.D. “Dee” Runk. All the while the bustling metropolis of Charlottesville sprung north to Hollymead, which has today become a major residential and commercial district, while painstakingly preserving this historic gem. In 2018 the property was acquired by UVA alumna Pam Calary and her husband William who have lovingly restored it as an elegant inn replete with original hardwood floors in lavish drawing rooms of period furniture, historic wall prints, and bookcases that make time stand still.

Overnight guests can choose their room based on availability, or private groups can reserve the entire inn for themselves. Hollymead House offers 6 guest rooms, two upstairs in the main house and four more in a separate, but adjoining guest house. As a central location near the airport and many of the area’s best wedding venues, Hollymead House is the perfect spot to book for the bride and groom’s family members, friends and VIP’s. Their local partnerships allow for easy access to luxury transportation, on-site photos or even an impromptu picnic!

Breakfast is served in a central room that catches morning light. After exploring Charlottesville, guests can enjoy relaxing in Hollymead House’s old southern ambiance, where one room opens into the next to promote reflection on another time period. The house is magnificent for reading or conversation, for visiting over a board game or spot of tea. As evening sets in, the light softens and the rustle of a cocktail shaker is right in time!

Want a different and unique stay in Charlottesville? Try Hollymead House!