Welcome to Berkeley Plantation . Step back in time to a bygone era and experience a genteel eighteenth-century lifestyle. Nowhere can you find a more unspoiled and tranquil environment. Our history begins in 1619 when settlers observed the first official Thanksgiving in America.

Virginia’s Most Historic Plantation . Berkeley’s history begins in 1619 when settlers observed the first official Thanksgiving in America. The 1726 Georgian mansion is the birthplace of Benjamin Harrison V, signer of the Declaration of Independence and governor of Virginia.

Visiting Berkeley Plantation . The staff and family invite you to experience Berkeley’s famous hospitality, as did many of our nation’s early presidents. Visit the site of the first official Thanksgiving. Hear “Taps,” first played at Berkeley in 1862.

General admission includes one-day admittance to Berkeley’s house, gardens, grounds, exhibits, outbuildings, films, and museums. While we recommend at least 2 hours for your visit, shorter visits are also possible.

Berkeley’s gardens and lawn extend a full quarter–mile from the front door of the mansion to the river banks. The 100 year old Boxwood garden gracing Berkeley’s buildings and 10 acres of formal gardens are one of the most extensive in Virginia.

The 100-year-old boxwood garden gracing Berkeley’s buildings and 10 acres of formal gardens are some of the most extensive in Virginia.

The Harrisons of Berkeley . In 1691, Berkeley was purchased by Benjamin Harrison III, who established the first successful shipyard on the James River. Tobacco was shipped from the plantation to England and 18-gun battleships were built there for the Revolutionary Navy.

In that year, the Jamieson Family, owners of Berkeley, invited members of the Woodlief family to the plantation to observe the annual event. That was the beginning of the Virginia Thanksgiving Festival, as we know it today.

Calendar of Events 2025 Coming Soon Spring Events April 1 through 7, 2024 Bring the family to Berkeley and learn its amazing history, while searching ...

Located Halfway Between Richmond and Williamsburg Off Scenic Route 5 in Charles City, Virginia From Norfolk / Virginia Beach I64 West towards Richmond to exit #211 (Route 106 South), Travel 14 miles to Flashing Light Route 5.