A free ferry ride across the james river takes you to surry -- where more historical attractions await

Spend the day across the river and explore the surrounding areas! While in Williamsburg, you will likely visit Colonial Williamsburg, Busch Gardens, Water Country, and Jamestown. But here are some ideas you may not have thought about!

A 30 minute ferry ride (FREE) across the James River will bring you to the "Surry Side" where you will find some hidden treasures. While driving through the beautiful countryside, you'll come upon the following attractions:

Smith's Fort Plantation
Coming from the Jamestown/Scotland ferry, a few miles down on your right hand side will be a beautiful historical residence. The main house on the property, the Faulcon House, was built in 1751, but the plantation received its name because it was the location of the Fort built by Captain John Smith in 1609. He built this right across the James River from the Jamestown Colony as a secondary place to retreat during attacks.

Later, this land would be given to John Rolfe by Chief Powhatan - a dowry for when Rolfe and Pocahontas married. Archaeological surveys of the property show that a number of structures have existed on the property and the present, restored main house was built by Jacob Faulcon in 1751 .

Smith's Fort Hours :
Tuesday - Saturday 10 am - 4 pm
Sunday 12 - pm - 4 pm

One admission gets you into both Smith’s Fort and Bacon’s Castle

Bacon's Castle
Bacon's Castle is the oldest documented house in Virginia built by Arthur Allen in 1665! The house is named because the supporters of Nathaniel Bacon's revolt against Governor William Berkeley occupied the building in 1676 during Bacon's Rebellion.

Well worth the time! Entertaining and educational for adults and children alike. The hours of operation are the same as Smith's Fort Plantation.

Chippokes Plantation State Park
On your way back from Bacon’s Castle, you will see the road to Chippokes Plantation State Park on your right side as you travel back down Rt 10.

This park is extremely beautiful and is a great place to take a stroll and stretch your legs. The beach at the James River is great for finding shells or shark's teeth. 

Two historic homes occupy this state park. In 1619, Captain William Powell, a prominent colonial gentleman, received a grant for 550 acres of river frontage on Chippokes Creek. This is the first record of ownership for this land. The bordering creek and the plantation were named for an Indian chief who befriended the early English settlers. Under the ownership of Colonel Henry Bishop in 1646, the plantation was expanded to its present boundaries encompassing 1,403 acres.

Dining in Surry
Your days finale might be dining at the Surrey House Restaurant. This eatery was built in 1954 and was the mainstay for eating in the town. It features yummy southern cooking with a menu filled with options such as steak, seafood, sandwiches and homemade pies!