Escape to tranquility and reclaim family time at this historic farm steeped in 18th century charm, set at the mouth of Urbanna Creek on 700 rural acres on the Rappahannock River. Take a dip in the pool or a leisurely country walk. Unplug with a book on the beach or cast for bass in your two private lakes. Watch eagles and osprey soar and nest. Kayak, canoe, book a sunset cruise. Our private chef will delight you with local fare and stories. Come, celebrate togetherness at Rosegill.
The Space
GROUNDS AND ACTIVITIES ON PROPERTY
As a recent guest noted, it is hard to adequately describe the beauty and wonder of Rosegill Farm but try we must. (Watch our 3 minute drone video of the property here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kyeNbsg33IE)
Let’s start with the grounds. Exhale as you turn down the long country lane flanked by original farm fields still active today, perhaps surprising fox, rabbits, and deer along the way. As the main house and other buildings come into view, you will be struck by the property’s grand scale and unique frontage on both river and creek. Take in the sweeping views of the two-mile wide Rappahannock River. You have arrived.
As soon as the kids tumble out of the car, they will be enthralled with the simple tree swing in the front yard, that timeless symbol of unadulterated joy. As they push each other you take in the scene, reminded of carefree childhood days, laughter, and the thrill of reaching higher with each push. You commend yourself for finding Rosegill and sharing its nostalgic charms with your whole family.
The first thing the group may wish to do is walk down to the beach. Rosegill’s expansive waterfront will delight all ages. Early risers will be rewarded with morning beach walks to watch the sun come up. Bring the kids down to comb for shells, skip stones, and wade in the river. Watch eagles and osprey soar, nest, and dive for fish. Grab a book about the local area and settle in on the beach.
When the kids get restless, hop on the golf cart you rented, grab some fishing poles, and head over to the lakes to fish for abundant bass. We provide two canoes, two sea kayaks, and two sit-on kayaks to paddle the lakes and creek. Strong kayakers may want to take to the river but be careful, it can be rough at times. Your on-site caretakers Megan and Riki can move watercraft down to the dock or lakes for your convenience. They are also available to answer questions or help with minor maintenance issues that may arise.
You might also explore the grounds by golf cart (or foot) and try to spot deer, bunnies, and turtles. As a special treat, we can arrange for a wonderful local naturalist to come lead a walk around the property focused on local birds, bees, and flora. A fun multi-generational activity.
Urbanna Creek hugs the property to the west and offers a large expanse of protected water to explore. Paddle over to the public marina, tie up, and walk into town! Back at Rosegill, all ages will love catching crabs off the dock. Boaters will appreciate our newly renovated boathouse (we can handle a 5’ draft). Bring your own boat or rent one locally. (Confirm with us first, please for tieing up). Be sure to book a local private charter to pick you up from the dock for a sunset cruise or fishing charter. We can help you arrange fishing charters out into the river or Chesapeake Bay.
This is truly the perfect home for a multi-generation family looking to connect. The kids will unplug and spend endless hours outdoors. There is plenty for older generations as well. Explore the expansive property, challenge someone to a game of chess, lounge around the pool, or catch up on your reading on the sun porch while the kids splash in the pool or run around the back yard. Come together in the quiet evenings over dinner, games, and a roaring backyard firepit.
THE MAIN HOUSE
Steeped in 18th-century charm, this lovingly restored home provides an enchanting escape from modern life. Step through the historic double front doors into the grand foyer, and continue to the impressive 12-foot-wide riverfront hallway with staircases (and ½ baths) at either end. Throw open another set of double doors out to the River Porch that offers views of the river, back lawn, and pool.
From morning coffee to evening drinks, this room beckons you to gather. Watch the osprey through the large plate glass windows with comfortable informal seating for all. The large farmhouse style table provides the perfect setting for waterfront dining or games.
The chef in the group will delight in the large well-stocked gourmet kitchen with Wolf stove, All-Clad cookware, built in refrigerator, warming drawer, and lovely views of the river. Use the large pot to cook those crabs you caught. As a special treat, book our private local chef Brenda to come and cook and delight you with stories of the area. Ask her about the Lancaster Tavern ghost. She can also cook what you catch and deliver meals!
You may choose to dine in the cozy 6-person breakfast room directly off the kitchen, the River Porch, or the formal dining room with two sideboards and a long table that seats 12.
After dinner perhaps you retire to the cozy wood-paneled den with seating for 5. Perfect for enjoying an after-dinner drink, playing a game, or some quiet conversation. The adjacent living room is comfortable for a larger group. Both rooms have tvs, but you may never turn them on. Or head back down to the beach to enjoy a peaceful walk and marvel at the changing colors from the setting sun.
You may also like to bring the group together in the evenings on the River Porch, or sit outside under a canopy of stars, warmed by the crackling fire pit. Roast marshmallows, swap stories about the day’s adventures, and plan the next day’s activities.
Nothing beats climbing into a well-made bed with high-end sheets and a cozy duvet after a full day of swimming, fishing, and exploring. Rosegill sleeps 12 in 9 beds across 5 elegantly appointed bedrooms, each dressed in down comforters and Company Store linens. The traditional furnishings reflect timeless sophistication, providing comfort and charm in every room. There are 3 full baths upstairs, as well as a second wide hallway. There, built in benches, card tables, and a chess table provide additional gathering places. Grab a book and stretch out on one of the window benches; the elevated views up here are nothing short of stunning.
URBANNA TOWN
If you can drag yourself away from Rosegill, do explore charming Urbanna, just on the other side of the small bridge across the creek. It’s a historically significant town, one of the oldest in the United States, and also one of the smallest.
Urbanna is situated on sheltered, deep water Urbanna creek, where its economy, culture, and ecology have been closely tied to the surrounding waters throughout its history. The town was named “Urbanna” in 1704 after Queen Anne of England and became the county seat of Middlesex in 1748, with its citizens experiencing prosperity during the mid-20th century thanks to the Rappahannock River oyster trade.
The Historic District includes 101 buildings, 75 of which are designated of historic value. Ten buildings are 18th century, many are 19th century, and some are Victorian structures.
Your first stop might be the Wormeley-Montague House. One of the few remaining 18th century buildings, it now houses the Urbanna Trading Company (managed by your caretakers Megan and Riki) and is the spot to pick up local foods and gifts as well as browse the great wine selection. Also be sure to visit the Scottish Factor Store Museum & Visitor Center and view the 1st edition Mitchell Map, widely regarded as the most important map of North America. More recommendations on making the most of your time in Urbanna are provided in our digital guidebook upon reservation confirmation.
VIRGINIA’S HISTORIC TRIANGLE: COLONIAL WILLIAMSBURG, YORKTOWN, AND JAMESTOWN
Immerse yourselves in colonial history by combining a stay at Rosegill Farm with an exploration of Virginia’s Historic Triangle: Colonial Williamsburg, Yorktown, and Jamestown are each located within an hour’s drive. Virginia students learn about their state’s history in 4th grade, a perfect time to take them on this tour. More details on visiting these important Virginia areas are provided in our digital guidebook.
HISTORY OF ROSEGILL
Rosegill ranks among the oldest and most historic estates in America. The extensive nature of the original complex, coupled with its association with some of the colony’s most prestigious individuals, makes Rosegill potentially one of the state’s richest archeological sites.
In 1649, shortly after the settlement of Jamestown and more than 80 years before George Washington was born, Ralph Wormeley received a Crown grant of 3,200 acres, and within a few years established Rosegill on the southern shore of the Rappahannock River. The first buildings were built between 1650 and 1654, when it was the home of Sir Henry Chicheley, a governor of Colonial Virginia who married Wormeley’s widow. The present complex, consisting of four brick buildings, most likely was erected during the tenure of Ralph Wormeley IV (1715-1790). The main house evolved from a small brick dwelling into a large U-shaped structure covered by a gambrel roof. In the 1850s the extending wings were removed and the second story added. Rosegill is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the Virginia Landmarks Register.
STAY WITH US!
Probably our greatest compliment came from a guest who shared they usually go on a beach vacation, but by mid-week the kids are on their phones. At Rosegill, the kids did not touch their phones until 9pm each night. They were that enthralled with all the property has to offer!
This vacation is not just about relaxation but also connection. The peaceful surroundings and the rhythm of farm life encourage all to unplug, slow down, and enjoy nature and each other in new and meaningful ways. Create memories that span generations and leave with stories to cherish for years to come. Celebrate milestone birthdays, anniversaries, or simply gather friends and family. Retreat to Rosegill. Book your stay now!
Guest Access
Guests have access to the Main House, pool, beach, dock, lakes, trails. and grounds. There are two other smaller houses on the property that are private. The caretakers Megan and Riki reside in the house to East (right side when facing house), another family resides in the house to the left. Megan and Riki are available to help guests during their stay.
Interaction
We are available to help make your visit to Rosegill special. Our caretakers Megan and Riki are just a phone call away and live next door. They are ready to assist with anything you might need during your stay, and will move kayaks and canoes to the lakes or river at your request. Your host Maria is also available by phone and messaging on the platform on which you booked. Do not hesitate to reach out. We look forward to hosting you!
Ask us for our 3-Day Itinerary with all our favorite spots and be sure to check out our partner discounts in our Welcome Guide when you book for catering, fishing charters, sailing charters, and more!
Please note that the pool isn’t heated.
To ensure transparency, please note that if your payment was processed via Stripe and you choose to cancel your reservation, the initial Stripe processing fees are non-refundable, as per Stripe’s policy.
Other things to note
While we have added modern amenities, Rosegill is still a very old house and requires tender loving care. Please be prepared to treat the property with great respect.
Due to the historic nature of the home and tranquil setting, this property does not accommodate wedding parties, events, rehearsal dinners, or large gatherings.
Rosegill is a working agricultural farm (corn, wheat, soy), and thus you may see or hear farm machinery and crop dusting planes. Some farm work may take place early in the morning and involve noise. Please do not touch any farm equipment you see on the property.
All three fireplaces are either non-functioning or defective, and may not be used at any time.
The property has security cameras covering the driveways, parking areas, pool, grounds and exterior of the home. There are no interior cameras.
Specific Cliff Danger Warning – There is a grassy lawn extension from the Rosegill Main House to the Rappahannock River shoreline. It’s very natural and inviting to walk toward the River to get as close as possible. Please don’t get too close, it drops off with a 30’ high cliff down to the beach all along the riverfront. It is very steep and unstable. Winter storms erode the cliff and parts collapse from time to time. Unsupervised children should not go anywhere near the top of the cliff. Extra care must be taken there and with small children.
The Main House is not the only home at Rosegill. The East Cottage, 85′ East of the Main House, is occupied by the property caretakers Megan and Riki (who are available to help you if needed and whose contact information is shared upon booking). We ask all residents and guests to give privacy to those in the other houses.
The barns and other outbuildings are not included in the rental. You are welcome to walk over to those buildings and look around the outside but please do not go inside and please do not touch any farm equipment.
The swimming pool is open May 15 – September 15. It is unheated. Use of the pool is reserved exclusively for those in the Main House during rentals.
Our property offers access to beautiful waterfront features such as river access, private dock, beach, and water activities. While we want you to have a fun and relaxing experience, it’s important to understand that water activities come with certain risks.
Waterfronts are fun but unpredictable environments. Even strong swimmers can run into trouble. There are no lifeguards on duty, and natural conditions may vary, including slippery surfaces, changing water depths, sharp objects, or wildlife.
To ensure everyone’s safety and to comply with insurance and legal requirements, all guests must acknowledge and accept these risks.
This waiver applies to any water-related activity or equipment you may use on or near the property, including:
Swimming or wading
Using paddleboards, kayaks, rafts, or canoes
Walking on docks, beaches, or near water
Fishing or boating
Any other recreational waterfront use
By using the waterfront or any water-related equipment, you understand and accept that:
Water activities are inherently risky.
You are responsible for your own safety and the safety of anyone in your group.
The property owner and host are not responsible for any accidents, injuries, or deaths that occur during your stay, regardless of the cause.
Important Safety Rules To help keep everyone safe, we ask that you follow these basic safety guidelines:
No lifeguard is on duty – swim and use water equipment at your own risk.
Children under 18 must be supervised at all times when near or in the water.
No diving or jumping from docks, boats, or other structures.
No water activity under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Wear life jackets when using kayaks, paddleboards, or any watercraft.
Check weather and water conditions before going in. Avoid using the water after dark or during storms.
Release of Liability
By staying at this property and/or using the waterfront:
You agree to release the property owner and host from any legal claims or responsibility for injuries, losses, or damages that happen due to water activities.
You accept full responsibility for any accidents that occur while using the waterfront or watercraft.
You agree to cover any costs resulting from your use of the property that causes damage, injury, or requires emergency response.
Thanks and have a great time!
To finalize bookings, we require execution of a Rental Agreement with house rules, which will be sent upon booking.
To ensure transparency, please note that if your payment was processed via Stripe and you choose to cancel your reservation, the initial Stripe processing fees are non-refundable, as per Stripe’s policy.
Heads up! Jellyfish have been spotted around the docks at this time of year, so please use extra caution when swimming or wading in the water. We also recommend wearing water shoes for added protection. Stay safe and enjoy the water!
Getting Around
A car is necessary. You may also want to rent a golf cart for exploring the expansive property. More information available upon booking.