No matter what time of year you choose to visit, you are sure to enjoy the year-round beauty and charm of Chester, both inside and out. Guests will enjoy Chester’s cozy library and living room with grand piano. In cool weather, warm yourself in front of a crackling fireplace or curl up on the plush sofa with a good book. In warmer weather, gracious Southern porches with rocking chairs and porch swings are the perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening. Chester’s extensive gardens and pondside patio are wonderful for enjoying a cool drink or morning cup of coffee. The patio and porches are also perfect for hosting your next family reunion or business reception.

This beautiful home was built in 1847 by Joseph C. Wright, a retired landscape architect from Chester, England. Situated on seven acres of historic arboretum, Chester’s grounds contain an expansive natural lily pond, garden patio pond and fountains, large stands of English boxwoods, over 50 different varieties of trees, shrubs and flowers, and reputably the largest holly tree on record in Albemarle County. The woodland trail and sweeping lawns make for a lovely early morning walk or afternoon stroll. The grounds are an informal sanctuary for a wide variety of Virginia wildlife. Deer, hawks, tree frogs, hummingbirds and many species of nesting birds, among others, can be seen on a regular basis. Many varieties of unusual birds have been spotted at Chester; in fact, a bird census is conducted twice yearly by a local wildlife group. Chester is also home to Lucy Rose, a gentle, playful hound; Susie, her constant canine companion; Casey, a loving golden retriever; and Dr. Who, a dignified silver tabby cat, affectionately known as “Doc.”