The Guide to Living on Virginia’s Northern Neck

Learn more about life on Virginia’s Northern Neck, an idyllic waterfront location with a unique history

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VIRGINIA’S NORTHERN NECK

The History of Virginia’s Northern Neck

Among the most historic destinations in the Mid-Atlantic, Virginia’s Northern Neck offers a quintessential waterfront experience along the Chesapeake Bay.

Located on a peninsula bounded by the Potomac River and the Rappahannock River, Virginia’s Northern Neck was originally inhabited by Native American tribes until the 1600s, when it became a popular English settlement following colonization under King Charles II.

Due to its ideal waterfront location, Virginia’s Northern Neck quickly transformed into an important colonial destination, soon becoming home to many of Virginia’s most historic residences and legacy trades. Regarded as the “birthplace of our nation,” Virginia’s Northern Neck is the birthplace of many of America’s most important figures, including George Washington, James Monroe, and Robert E. Lee.

Today, Virginia’s Northern Neck remains home to a unique waterfront culture, where residents still continue to harvest Rockfish, Blue Crab, and world famous Virginia Oysters, as well as some of the Mid-Atlantic’s most charming small towns, including Irvington, Virginia and Kilmarnock, Virginia.

Camusrory of Woodstock, Virginia. Image courtesy of Reader & Swartz Architects.

THE HOMES COLLECTION

The Waterfront Homes of Virginia

Explore a curated collection of the most iconic waterfront homes in Virginia

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Browse homes for sale on Virginia’s Northern Neck presented by Sotheby’s International Realty

VIRGINIA’S NORTHERN NECK

“Located between the Potomac River and the Rappahannock River, Virginia’s Northern Neck offers the best of waterfront living in the Mid-Atlantic.”

— Byron V. Hughey

The Corrotoman River. Image courtesy of Fred Guckes.

TRAVEL GUIDE

A Weekend on Virginia’s Northern Neck

Enjoy a weekend on Virginia’s Northern Neck, a premiere waterfront destination in the Mid-Atlantic

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VIRGINIA’S NORTHERN NECK

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore common questions about life on Virginia’s Northern Neck, including best neighborhoods, restaurants, and more

WHERE IS VIRGINIA’S NORTHERN NECK?

Virginia’s Northern Neck is a geographic region of Virginia that is located on a peninsula between the Potomac River and the Rappahannock River. Virginia’s Northern Neck.

IS VIRGINIA’S NORTHERN NECK A GOOD PLACE TO LIVE?

For waterfront living, Virginia’s Northern Neck is considered one of the best places to live in the Mid-Atlantic. However, given its relatively remote geographic location, it may not be practical for those commuting daily to the Washington Metropolitan Area. As a result, Virginia’s Northern Neck is best known as a second home and destination market, and should be considered for those who value small town charm and waterfront living.

WHAT TOWNS ARE IN VIRGINIA’S NORTHERN NECK?

Virginia’s Northern Neck is comprised of many historic small towns and rural villages. Most notable is Irvington, Virginia in Lancaster County, which is the home of the iconic waterfront hotel, The Tides Inn. Other notable towns on Virginia’s Northern Neck include Kilmarnock, Virginia and White Stone, Virginia.

WHAT ARE THE BEST RESTAURANTS IN VIRGINIA’S NORTHERN NECK?

Given the broad geographic footprint of Virginia’s Northern Neck, there are many fabulous restaurants that not only exist within the region, but also embody its distinct waterfront culture. Among the most notable restaurants on Virginia’s Northern Neck is Dredge.

THE RAPPAHANNOCK RIVER COMPANY