Q: Why should I visit Shirley? A: Shirley is Virginia’s oldest plantation founded in 1613 after a royal land grant established tobacco farming at West and Shirley Hundred. Shirley is also the oldest family-owned business in North America dating to 1638 when Edward Hill I began farming in Charles City along the James River. Shirley stands as a testament to Colonial life and the early American history of the indigenous, settlers, indentured, and enslaved, and it is the most intact and authentic example of colonial architecture in the country including all original buildings and no reproduced structures. Also, the present manor house is largely in its original state and is lived in by the 11th and 12th generations of the Hill Carter family who are the current stewards of the property.
Q: When is Shirley open? A: Shirley is currently closed for the winter season. From March to December, Shirley is open Monday – Saturday from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm, the exit gate closes at 5:00 pm. Shirley is closed to the public on Sundays, Easter, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and special events.
Q: How long does it take to get to Shirley? A: From downtown Richmond, it is an approximately 35-minute drive. From downtown Williamsburg, it is an approximately 45-minute drive.
Q: How long does it take to tour Shirley? A: The Grounds Tour is self-guided and at a leisurely pace takes approximately 45 minutes. The guided tour of the Manor House takes approximately 40-45 minutes. Be sure to leave time to shop in the gift shop!
Q: Is there a foundation at Shirley? A: Yes. The Shirley Plantation Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and sharing this important piece of American History.
Q: Is there a restaurant at Shirley? A: No. The gift shop sells snacks and drinks, and there are four restaurants located near Shirley:
• Upper Shirley Vineyards, winery, restaurant, and our next-door neighbor
•Indian Fields Tavern is located approximately 9 miles east of Shirley on Route 5
• Cul’s Courthouse Grille is located approximately 11 miles east of Shirley on Route 5, near the Charles City County Court House
• Dockside restaurant is located approximately 5 miles from Shirley Plantation on Route 106.
Q: Do I have to pay admissions if I only want to tour the grounds? A: Yes. Admission is required to tour the grounds.
Q: Can I tour the Manor House without a guide and on my own? A: A guide is required to tour the first floor of the Manor House. The house is still a private family home.
Q: Does the family live there NOW? A: Yes. The 11th and 12th generations, direct descendants of Edward Hill, still live in the house today.
Q: Is there a gift shop at Shirley? A: Yes! Visit our gift shop for drinks and snacks, custom Shirley souvenir items, books and toys, special giftware, jewelry, t-shirts, handcrafted items by local crafters, and many Made in Virginia gifts!
Q: What can I expect to see when I visit Shirley? A: A self-guided tour of the grounds and eight 18th-century buildings, audio tour, exhibits, gift shop, nature walk, and family-friendly game Mission:Shirley. With a guided tour of the home’s first floor, you will see original family portraits, antiques, and a unique flying staircase.
Q: Is my donation to Shirley tax deductible? A: Yes, your donation to Shirley Plantation Foundation is tax-deductible. Please click here for more information regarding Shirley Plantation Foundation.
Q: May I take pictures? A: Visitors are welcome to take pictures of the grounds, outbuildings, and exterior of the Great House. Photography is not allowed inside the Great House.
Q: Are there slave quarters at Shirley? A: There are no remaining slave quarters at Shirley; however, there is one cabin still standing on property now owned by a neighbor. There is an exhibit located in the Kitchen Building detailing the slave quarters that existed as well as items used in the daily lives of the enslaved.
Q: Is tobacco or cotton still grown at Shirley? A: Tobacco is no longer grown at Shirley. Cotton is still grown as part of a crop rotation of cotton, corn, soybean, and wheat.
Q: May I picnic at Shirley? A: Admission includes access to the grounds on which you are welcome to picnic. Great picnic items are for sale in our gift shop. No alcoholic beverages are allowed.
Q: Can the Shirley Plantation Foundation help me with my genealogy? A: The Shirley Plantation Foundation is not a genealogical research institution and does not conduct research for the public. Please click here for our list of resources for researching your genealogy.