The Boyd Tavern has been entertaining folks in Mecklenburg County since 1790. The historic inn and tavern predates Boydton, which was established in 1812. It’s been through several iterations in its long history, including a boarding house and apartments.
Now it’s open for tours and as an event venue. Walk down one of its two story porches and admire the interior mid-nineteenth century style courtesy of famed Virginia architect Jacob W. Holt.

Get a hint of 18th Century plantation life with a tour of Prestwould Plantation. Originally built in 1794 by Sir Peyton Skipwith for himself and his second wife, Lady Jean, the grand home, many of the original outbuildings, and Lady Jean’s garden are open to the public. When built of stone quarried on the plantation, it was one of the largest homes of its day. The plantation once consisted of 10,000 acres along the Roanoke River. Stroll inside the home and get a peek of what it was like back then, you’ll spy some of the home’s original furnishings.

Pop over to the Bondurant Brothers Distillery and sample a bit of history served up one mason jar at a time. This family owned distillery first made a name for itself as an illegal moonshine operation during prohibition. Their spirits were in such high demand they quickly became the envy of the county -- and the enemy of local law enforcement. Today, the entire operation is entirely legit. As owner Rober Bondurant says, “The only difference between a distiller and moonshiner is taxes.” Check the hours before you go.

The gateway to another world is just around the corner. The life's work of Scottish heiress Lucy Hudgins, MacCallum More is a meandering, moss-covered testament to a life’s passion. The formal gardens feature an arboretum, herb garden, wildflower garden, rose and theme gardens. Over 200 varieties of plants are represented. Particularly striking is the sculpture garden, which includes a massive Spanish Cloister, shipped and assembled on site piece by piece.

End your day with dinner at South Hill's trendiest bar and restaurant. Housed in an old elementary school, the vibe is retro cafeteria turned craft kitchen. Grab a signature drink at the bar prepared by our resident mixologist as you wait for your table. The menu reads like a report card, and all the dishes are riffs on cafeteria culture. But the cafeteria connection ends there. The menu is filled with selections prepared simply and well. Enjoy braised pork chops. Order up sautéed shrimp in a light sauce. All meals are based upon locally sourced meats, vegetables and, in some cases, paired with local wines. When it comes to a great meal at the end of a wonderful day, we give this place an A+.