Northumberland County lies on the Chesapeake Bay and is just across the Potomac River from Maryland.  The abundance of waterways, laid-back lifestyle, and temperate climate have made it one of Virginia’s leading retirement and vacation communities.  Northumberland comprises 286 square miles, with 94 square miles of water, and a population of approximately 12,400.  Northumberland is home to some charming towns.  The town of Reedville is rich in maritime history and home to the Chesapeake Bay Menhaden Fleet.  There is abundant shopping and dining in the town of Kilmarnock, which stretches from the edge of Northumberland into Lancaster County.  Located just outside of Kilmarnock in Northumberland County is Indian Creek Yacht & Country Club with an 18-hole golf course, social activities, yacht club, indoor/outdoor tennis and more (membership required).  Northumberland’s greatest asset is its waterfront, with miles of bay and river frontage, fishing charters and tournaments, cruises to Tangier, and ideal areas for water sports, kayaking, and taking in the sights and sounds of nature. Northumberland/Lancaster is also home to active local chapters of the Audobon Society, Master Naturalists, Master Gardeners, and Native Plant Society.

At the time of English settlement around 1635, the area was inhabited by the Native American Wicomico and Chickacoan tribes.  In 1648, this “Mother County of the Northern Neck” was organized and named after County Northumberland, England.  The county seat is Heathsville, with its historic district, Colonial-era Hughlett’s Tavern.   For some delightful places to visit, check out Good Luck Cellars and Ditchley Cider Works.

Come to Northumberland… a great place to visit, a great place to call home.

Areas in Northumberland: Kilmarnock, Burgess, Callao, Heathsville, Lottsburg, Reedville, Wicomico Church

Bodies of Water: Chesapeake Bay, Ingram Bay, Potomac River, Great Wicomico River, Cockrell Creek, Dividing Creek, Indian Creek, Mill Creek, Tipers Creek