A Delightful Weekend Away...
On a cold, slightly rainy day, I met Heather at a local coffee shop. Actually, let me clarify—she wasn't my friend yet. But within five minutes of sitting down together, I knew we'd become fast friends. She was chic, intriguing, and an excellent conversationalist—a triple threat, as my mother would say. We chatted about everything from our work histories to the trials of renovating historic homes. She invited me to stay at her river house when the weather turned nice, and I gladly accepted. It was one of the best decisions I've made.
Just as Heather was meticulously dressed, her design for Rosehill Cottage was impeccable—simply chef's kiss. It seamlessly blends modernity with vintage and antique elements, incorporates chinoiserie touches amidst bold pops of color, and features natural rattan furniture that exudes a relaxed elegance.
A view of the Rappahannock River from the dining table.
The cozy bedroom I claimed for the weekend. The cottage sleeps 8 with 3 bedrooms, 5 beds and 3 baths.
I was completely enchanted and even considered googling 'squatters' rights' because I couldn't imagine leaving this place. But before you entertain any extreme (or illegal) ideas, an easier option is to simply book a stay here. Check out the full listing for all the details and amenities, and be sure to continue reading below for tips on where to shop, dine, and play during your visit.
Don't worry, it's not a Bigfoot sighting; it's just me dragging a kayak down to the river.
The resemblance is uncanny, no?
Pro Tip: The local grocery store sells bloodworms for fishing. The property includes two kayaks, and you can access the river directly from the front lawn via concrete stairs. Don’t miss the famous Merroir restaurant, renowned for its numerous awards and write-ups; it might just be the best seafood spot in the state. And as someone who never turns down a slice of Key Lime Pie, I must say, theirs is the absolute best. It truly takes the cake—literally.
Where to Dine, Shop, Play
Heather's Recomendations:
The hostess with the mostess sent me a lovely email the morning we arrived detailing some of her favorite places to frequent in the area. Find them below and keep up with the cottage & Heather by following @rosehillcottagerappahannock.
Oh! Let me not forget...Historic home lovers you are in for a TREAT because Heather is also fixing up her 1895 Capitol Hill Victorian! Follow the journey by following her on instagram @hmbien!
Now, onto the recs!
Via an email from Heather that reads:
"For reference, the cottage is 8 min from Urbanna, just under 15 to White Stone, 25 to Irvington.
Adrift is in White Stone and, by far, a favorite. You may need a reservation.
Definitely eat at Merroir if it’s nice out one day. Get the oyster po’ boy.
Urbanna Seafood Market is a great divey seafood spot with outdoor seating (it may only have outdoor seating actually…we only go when it’s nice out).
If you want to get seafood to cook, J&W or Miss Mary’s are both great. Get the Rivah Dip from J&W!
Call in an order of breakfast biscuit sandwiches and a cinnamon bun to Where the Sidewalk Ends in Urbanna. Call about 40 min in advance.
If you want a more city-style breakfast (flavored lattes, bagel sandwiches, etc), The Local in Irvington is great. There are a few shops by it, so I’d go on later end of breakfast and hit the shops once they open. While you’re over there, it’s worth stopping by Kilmarnock Antiques Gallery.
I LOVE Out of the Oven Bakery in White Stone to pick up baked goods. You can smell the cinnamon a block away.
Delta Pie is great to grab a quick dinner to make at home. Get the finish at home version.
You can also head over to Irvington to Dredge or Vine for dinner.
Something Different in Urbanna is a good spot for dinner — barbecue and bar food. Very local, casual vibe.
If you want to go antiquing/shopping.
Urbanna Flea Market is about 5 min away. Requires a lot of digging through nautical themed items but the prices can't be beat.
Kilmarnock has the big antiques gallery and lots of other spots. I don't know any of the names, but you'll see them all over town.
White Stone has one antiques shop right across from Chesapeake Doughnut. It has lots of glassware and is deceivingly bigger than it looks. Pointe Provisions is also great, but closed for renovations right now.
August Table in White Stone has the best block print linens. Pink Lemon is another shop right by there...
Low Tide in Urbanna is my favorite boutique, great jewelry."
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As a parting thought, let me share a quote from the renowned American poet and writer Jim Harrison: "You can't be unhappy in the middle of a big, beautiful river." While it may not be a groundbreaking revelation, it is certainly one of the most truthful statements I've come across recently.
So, find your happiness and book the charming Rosehill Cottage for a perfect summer or fall getaway.
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