Overview: History, what to expect, and unique features of Sherwood Forest
Sherwood Forest Plantation is a historic house and former plantation located in Charles City County, Virginia, along the scenic James River. The main house, originally built around 1730, is historically significant as the home of the tenth U.S. President, John Tyler. Tyler purchased the property in 1842 and renamed it Sherwood Forest, a nod to his reputation as a political “outlaw” after his falling-out with the Whig party. He lived here from the end of his presidential term in 1845 until his death in 1862.
Visitors can expect to see the longest frame house in America, extended by President Tyler to over 300 feet, notably by adding a 68-foot ballroom designed for the popular Virginia Reel dance. The grounds feature 25 acres of terraced gardens and centuries-old trees. The house remains a private residence, continuously owned by the Tyler family descendants, adding a unique personal dimension to the tour. The plantation complex includes several original 17th-century outbuildings, such as a tobacco barn and smoke house, representing one of the most complete plantation yards in America.
While George Washington’s Mount Vernon and Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello may be the US presidential homes in Virginia that pull in the crowds, Sherwood Forest offers something a little different.
Planning your visit to Sherwood Forest: opening times and access
Sherwood Forest operates primarily as a self-guided grounds tour, with house tours available by appointment.
- Grounds hours: The grounds are typically open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (seasonal hours may vary slightly; check website for winter schedule).
- House tours: Guided house tours require an appointment and are contingent on the availability of the private residence. Call or email at least one week in advance to schedule.
- Closures: The grounds observe closures on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.
- Recommended time: Allow one hour for the self-guided grounds tour. The combined grounds and house tour takes two or more hours.
Sherwood Forest admission fees and tickets
A fee applies for both the self-guided grounds tour and the guided house tour.
| Ticket type | Price (Estimate, checked December 2025) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Self-guided Grounds Tour (Adult) | $10.00 | Cash only is sometimes required; confirm payment methods upon arrival. |
| Guided House Tour (Adult) | $35.00 | Includes the grounds tour; requires booking in advance. |
| Child (15 and under) | Free (Grounds) / $25.00 (House Tour) | |
| Group Tour (10+ people) | Varies | Available for both grounds and house by advance appointment. |
Booking note: Due to the site’s status as a private residence, visitors must call or email in advance to arrange house tours and group visits.
Accessibility and safety
The site maintains facilities but visitors should note the outdoor, historical nature of the complex.
- Accessibility: The grounds are primarily grass, dirt paths, and lawn, which may present challenges for mobility. Access is generally flat but can be soft after rain. Call ahead for specific accessibility needs.
- Safety: Visitors must stay on designated paths and treat the grounds with respect, remembering it remains a private residence.
Nearby attractions for Sherwood Forest
Sherwood Forest is located on Virginia’s historic Route 5, placing it near the James River Plantations and major historical destinations:
- Berkeley Plantation: Located nearby, this historic plantation was the birthplace of President William Henry Harrison and features a beautifully preserved 18th-century home.
- Shirley Plantation: The oldest continuously family-owned business in North America, offering another spectacular look at James River plantation life.
- Williamsburg: Located approximately 30 minutes east, Colonial Williamsburg is the world’s largest living history museum, detailing the life of 18th-century America.
- Richmond: Located about 45 minutes west, Virginia’s capital city offers museums, historic battlefields, and the Virginia State Capitol (designed by Thomas Jefferson).
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) about Sherwood Forest
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is unique about the house’s architecture? | The house is the longest frame dwelling in America, stretching 301 feet, including the long, narrow ballroom added by President Tyler for dancing. |
| Why did John Tyler name it Sherwood Forest? | Tyler renamed it Sherwood Forest to signify that the Whig political party had “outlawed” him, referencing the legendary outlaw Robin Hood. |
| Can I visit the house without an appointment? | No, tours of the private main house are available only by advance appointment. The grounds are open daily for self-guided tours without appointment. |
| Did the plantation own slaves? | Yes, like many plantations in the mid-19th century Virginia, the Tylers owned dozens of enslaved African Americans who worked the land until Emancipation. |
| Is the house still occupied? | Yes, Sherwood Forest remains the only historic presidential house still occupied by direct descendants of the president who owned it. |
