Tour and Tea at Rosemont Manor

My family recently visited Rosemont Manor, which was the home of Harry Byrd, a much beloved Governor and Senator in Virginia history.  In Virginia schools, they credit Harry Byrd with getting Virginia out of the depression before the rest of the country. It is a beautiful property in Berryville, VA.  Recently, a family bought Rosemont and turned it into a bed and breakfast, and a wedding destination.  They have tried to keep much of its historical identity.

Overall, it was a pleasant tour, half of which had historical value and half of which was a wedding promo.  Our group appeared to have consisted of a few young brides and their mothers checking out the place.  It would seem they attract a prestigious crowd.  Apparently, General Petraus' daughter had her wedding there and a president of a foreign country was planning a wedding.  I noticed the mother and daughter in our group who were dressed quite impeccably, was carry a Versace bag and sunglasses.

Largest holly tree I've ever seen

The family was also able to hold on to much of the property surrounding the house.  The property had many trees I've never seen including the largest holly tree I've ever seen.  Unfortunately, the tour is limited by how many guests Rosemont has that morning as the rooms were converted into guest rooms.  Lucky for us there were not many.

My kids got a kick out of the dial telephone and the owner, who took us on the tour, told us where we could find the two-way mirror.  We also got a quick look at the big copper sink in the kitchen and apparently, there is a hidden safe in the house.

The tea was my favorite part.  The tea, held inside the house, was not like teas I've been to before.  Teas I've attend, you get to pick which tea you wanted to drink.  There were three courses and with each course came a different tea blend.  Each one had its own flavor.  The last course is the dessert course and there appeared to be a little piece of wedding cake.

Overall, I enjoyed it and would consider going again.  (Of course, there are still many teas I need to attend.)We were able to attend for $39 a person however, their website says it is typically $60

Some tips:

• The owner us, we were the first tea that was not full so I suggest making reservation if you intend ongoing.

• It sounds like they are using Living Social quite often, so check it out for any specials.

• The manor has only been in business for 2 years but it sounds like it is becoming quite a success, so keep an eye on prices.

• I came mostly for the tea.  The tour was extra for me.  If I were to look at it objectively, I would improve the tour.