The Inn & Tavern at Meander- Locus Dale, VA

As I have said before, I am not a B&B type person (Air or otherwise). That said, if the property has an onsite restaurant or bar, and I am not sharing the space with the owner, I’ll probably give it a go. Hence, a recent impromptu stay at Meander, which did not disappoint. 

In the best possibly way, a stay at Meander feels like visiting an elderly relative, who lives on a somewhat shabby grand old Southern estate. From the moment you turn into the drive, you enter another world. The vast property is perfect for exploring, with remnants of the past scattered about like Easter eggs, waiting to be discovered.

The property was first patented in 1726, by Col. Joshua Fry, who discovered the area while mapping what is now the State of Virginia, along with his partner Peter Jefferson (Thomas’ father). In addition to being a surveyor, Fry was a member of the House of Burgesses, a professor at William and Mary, and later a commander of the Virginia Militia during the French and Indian War (with George Washington as his second in command). 

The mansion itself, a lovely columned Greek Revival, was constructed between 1745 and 1766, and hosted a variety of famous founders, including Thomas Jefferson and George Mason. The house miraculously survived the Civil War intact, despite its proximity to several key battles, such as Cedar Mountain. Equally miraculous, the house stayed in the family until the early 1900s. 

The estate was then purchased by an area attorney, whose reclusive daughters established a world famous Whippet kennel (1928), and bred racehorses. The sisters remained on the estate along with their dogs, horses and Aberdeen Angus cattle until their deaths in the 1970s. Today, the repurposed kennel house is one of the inn’s offerings (pet friendly of course). 

In the 1990’s the historic home was renovated, and converted into an award winning bed and breakfast. Although it has since changed hands, and is a bit worse for the wear, it is still a charming property. The grounds include acres of explorable space, including gardens, pastures, a historic graveyard and a swimmable river complete with rope swing. 

The almost stand alone Summer Kitchen (attached to the manor house by a classic brick arcade) was charming, and very historic, but in need of a refresh (peeling paint, cracked windows).  The interior common spaces in the manor (lobby, parlor) were a bit bare, but the old gal’s bones are good, so there is potential. 

The real standout is the rear terrace, with its lovely mountain views, which are absolutely breathtaking at sunset. The covered porch (with requisite blue painted ceiling) is the perfect place for both dinner and breakfast, both of which were fantastic. Although a bit rough around the edges, it will certainly please anyone who enjoys historic properties.