Most scenic, historic road in Virginia. Do you enjoy a ramble in the country ending up in a fun place for food and drink?

Do you enjoy a ramble in the country ending up in a fun place for food and drink?

The Orlean Market, located in the village of Orlean, can send you on some interesting side roads for that wonderful road trip to the country. We will be sending a series of these interesting rides; take your choice and maybe enjoy all of them on different days.

Our first trip takes you along I-66 to Exit 18 (Markham exit).  Get off the interstate and turn left on Leeds Manor Road (Rt. 688). Follow this winding road over the railroad track. On the left is located "Mt. View", a very old landmark and home of the Stribling family since early 1800's. Some members of the Stribling Battery (Civil War unit) lived at Mt. View; they were reported to have come home for Sunday family dinners between  skirmishes.  Stribling Orchard is open in summer peach and fall apple seasons for pick-your-own fruit and all kinds of baked goodies.

Several miles up the road is located the Leeds Ruritan Park on the right which is a great place for kids to run around and stretch their legs.  The Leeds Ruritan Club sponsors a day in the country with a jousting tournament on the third Saturday in September.  Food and fun for the family.

About three miles up Leeds Manor Road, Leeds Episcopal Church is located on the right. Area residents have been worshiping in this church for about 200 years. The original brick and stucco structure was damaged by bullet fire during the Civil War, but was repaired immediately by community residents. A wander through the cemetery will provide a strong sense of family by the names Marshall, Stribling, Green, Ambler and many more which can be found on the markers.

Almost next door in the village of Hume is the originally known structure called Barbee's Tavern or Barbee's Crossroads. This stage stop was located at the crossroads of Hume Road and Leeds Manor Road.  When it was converted into a residence, the walls were papered with newspapers which provided many interesting community items.  The structure presently is used as a bed and breakfast which can be rented for special events (contact The Orlean Market for information and reservations.

Continuing through Hume, you will pass Mt. Morris Baptist Church, one of the first black independent churches in the area.  This very active church recently celebrated its one hundred fiftieth anniversary.

After crossing Crest Hill Road, "Edgeworth", one of the many homes of the Marshall family is located on the right.  This lovely home with several dependencies is currently on the market.

Finish your country drive with a stop at The Orlean Market, located in Orlean across from the Orlean Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department.  Enjoy a light snack or a full meal (Breakfast, lunch 7 days a week, and dinner Wednesdays-Saturdays) plus beverages to quench your thirst. Check out our weekly newsletter for a full schedule of special music and events. Come to visit often and enjoy your country ride!

WWW.ORLEANMARKET.COM 

540-364-2774 

6855 LEEDS MANOR ROAD 

MARSHALL VIRGINIA 20115