Kingsmill on the James

Kingsmill on the James – A Williamsburg VA Neighborhood Spotlight by “Mr Williamsburg”

Kingsmill on the James is a gated residential and resort community, and one of Williamsburg, Virginia’s original master-planned golf communities. Located on 2,900 acres of green hills and forests stretching for three miles along the banks of the James River, it offers a wide variety of home styles in stunning natural settings. Kingsmill is an active community that appeals to all ages, from young families to retirees, with amenities that include outdoor pools, playgrounds, tennis courts, and walking/hiking trails.

In addition to its expansive residential areas, Kingsmill encompasses the separate, 400-room Kingsmill Resort & Spa.  Kingsmill residents have the option of becoming resort members in order to enjoy luxury extras such as world-class golf courses, a full-service marina, restaurants, tennis club, and much more.

Kingsmill is located less than three miles from historic Colonial Williamsburg and The College of William and Mary. In 2016, Kingsmill was named a “Best of the Best” College Town Community by ideal-LIVING magazine.

The Kingsmill development was started in the 1970s by Busch Properties, Inc., in conjunction with the creation of the Busch Gardens theme park and the Anheuser-Busch Brewery. Kingsmill currently contains approximately 2,354 homes (and lots).

In 2010 Xanterra purchased the Kingsmill Resort, including the golf courses and surrounding undeveloped parcels. On March 1, 2017, Escalante Golf, a boutique owner and operator of unique golf assets purchased the AAA Four Diamond Kingsmill Resort from Xanterra Kingsmill, LLC. The purchase price was $30.7 million.

Founded in 1991, Escalante Golf is a boutique owner and operator of luxury golf properties across nine states. The Fort Worth, Texas-based company has assembled an impressive collection of exclusive clubs in key markets that have hosted several prestigious amateur and professional golf tournaments including the U.S. MidChampionship, the WinCo Foods Portland Open and the Shell Houston Open.
Operating partners David McDonald, Elcio Silva, Robert Silva and David Matheson direct the Escalante team.

Read why a younger couple with kids chose Kingsmill as their favorite neighborhood

Kingsmill’s Many Home Choices

From condos to townhouses and single-family homes, Kingsmill offers homes for virtually any type of lifestyle.

Single Family Detached Homes

Resale single-family detached homes are often available throughout Kingsmill. They are located in beautiful natural settings, some beside the James River or overlooking peaceful ponds, others sited along wooded ravines or the Resort’s immaculate golf fairways. These homes range in price from $500,000 to $2 million+. Some of the newer upper-end neighborhoods in Kingsmill include Sandys Fort, Brownings Grant, Spencers Grant, The Landing, and Jefferson Hundred.

Burwell’s Landing, today, is one of the finest neighborhoods in Kingsmill on the James. From the panoramic, river-view side of the Plantation grand manor-house, built by Lewis Burwell lll, the then sprawling plantation and now neighborhood are in view.  Large, stately riverfront and river-view homes, on the streets of East and West Landing, line the banks of the James River. Private beaches, boat docks, and piers provide direct access to the James, for year-round relaxation and activities of fishing, boating, and family and neighborhood get-together. Some of the estates flank the 2nd, 15th, 16th, and 17th holes of the acclaimed   Plantation Course of Kingsmill, created by Ed Seay and Arnold Palmer. The grand entrance to Burwell’s Landing allows passage to the thirty-six residences of Burwell’s Landing, and also the entrance to the parcels of Armistead Point and Burwell’s Bluff, and to the ancient Mighty Oak in one of Burwell’s Landing’s park-like islands and generous common green area spaces.

Parcel Fees in Kingsmill 2024

Quarterpath Trace

Featured in the November 1983 issue of Southern Living magazine, Quarterpath Trace is one of the first and most unique neighborhoods in Kingsmill. It was named for Quarterpath Road, among the oldest roads in Williamsburg. Quarterpath Road extended from Williamsburg to the James River passing what are now the 17th and 18th holes on the River course. This road was used by the English during the Revolution and it was the route of escape for Lord Dunmore and the British Marines when removing powder and shot from the magazine in Williamsburg in April of 1775.  

Quarterpath Trace was designed to resemble a colonial village, with thirteen homes representing the original colonies being developed in the first phase. Comprised of a variety of building designs, including stores, kitchens, offices, schools and quarters, the houses are both single and attached dwellings placed on small lots, at interesting angles, about seven to an acre. With dwellings so close to the street each resident has a nice backyard to enjoy. In Colonial days, most would have had vegetable gardens. Today there are many interesting and charming gardens, each one framed by a white picket fence and brick walks. The original neighborhood sign, which now stands on Southall Road, depicted the layout of the first phase and has recently been refurbished. Today, the Thomas Gates and Edward Wakefield entrances have individual signs.

There are several community events that help to unite neighbors who hail from interesting and varied backgrounds; all share an appreciation for the history and beauty of the area. Quarterpath Trace has renewed a Christmas tradition by lining the streets with about six hundred luminaria. Assembling bags and placing the candles with friends put everyone in the spirit of the season. The evening of the lighting brings several residents out for caroling. Many Kingsmill residents from other neighborhoods come through to enjoy a little Christmas pleasure.

Parking lot picnics in the spring or fall bring neighbors together to share good food and music provided by a resident disc jockey. Finally, the parcel committee encourages homeowners to remain after meetings for snacks, drinks and music. It is a fun way to catch up with neighbors. The residents are from interesting and varied backgrounds.

Rivers Edge

River’s Edge is situated between the James River and Wareham’s Pond, providing water vistas from each residence, some views more panoramic than others. The houses are uniquely nestled in cul-de-sacs for easy access and privacy. Built-in four phases beginning in 1996, there are presently 54 homes, some are attached and others free-standing. A few additional lots are available on both pond and river. Three basic plans exist with ample square footage and openness surrounded by large windows.

Residents stand in awe daily with ever-shifting seasonal sunsets; the sky is a waterfall of colors cascading into the James River. The rainbow colors are spread wide or confined for moments in moving clouds.

In this serene location eagles nest and soar, swans visit, otters paddle, beavers gather and annoy, woodchucks climb and tease, and deer romp and graze. Virginia’s nature is alive and fascinating in rolling ravines edging the water.

A pool is conveniently located in the center of this attractive neighborhood and is available from May-September for lap swimming, treading water and children’s shouts and laughter–most likely echoing visiting grandchildren. Neighbors meet for poolside parties on summer evenings.

Residents of River’s Edge represent several countries and many states and the neighborhood experiences little turnover. This tight community includes actively employed, retirees, singles, couples and a few who enjoy second homes in other locations.

River’s Edge residents are social people! A monthly Happy Hour brings everyone together from 5-7 p.m., hosted by rotating households. These events do not require RSVP, just an appetizer to share and your beverage of choice. The PAC hosts Semi-annual and Annual PAC meetings for residents, as well as a holiday social. The “Ladies on the Edge” meet once a month for lunch at a local restaurant. And TLC volunteers look after neighbors who may, on occasion, need a helping hand. River’s Edge is a vibrant Parcel within Kingsmill who enjoy the good life with great neighbors!

Homes for sale in Kingsmill

Building lots for new, custom-designed, and built single-family residences are available in Spencer’s Grant neighborhood, Kingsmill’s newest residential offering. This development of 38 home sites is heavily wooded for privacy and offers views of conservation areas and the James River. All utilities are underground, and the community preserves both green spaces (40% of the property will remain untouched) and archaeologically significant areas.

Courtyard/Villas/Patio Homes are single-family detached homes on smaller lots for minimal grounds upkeep. Located adjacent to a golf course, these low- profile, single-story residences feature private patios or decks designed for minimum maintenance and a carefree lifestyle. Most offer views of golf fairways or natural green space. Prices range from $300,000 to $500,000.  Patio home neighborhoods in Kingsmill include Yeardleys Grant, Francis Thacker & Burwells Green.

Yeardleys Grant Floor Plan

Townhomes

Offering maintenance-free living, most Kingsmill townhomes feature main-level master bedrooms, screened porches, and large decks. Many offer abundant storage. Residences in the townhome communities of Winster Fax, Archers Mead, Littletown Quarter, Burwells Green, Harrops Glen ,  Warehams Point and some of Quarterpath Trace, are priced from $300,000 to $1.3 million

Winster Fax

The initial plans for Kingsmill called for single- and multi-family residences, nestled in the park-like setting. The concept of multi-family homes surrounded by large areas of open space was a popular alternative to single-family dwellings, especially in the seventies, and was an attractive addition to the traditional houses offered.


About the same time that ground was broken for the first homes on Whittaker’s Mill and Bray Wood, the first multi-family parcel was opened in Kingsmill in Winster Fax.

In 1974, Winster Fax was the first multi-family community to be platted in Kingsmill with construction beginning several years later. The parcel contains 10.5 acres, bordered by Kingsmill Road, Mount’s Bay Road and the 3rd Fairway of the River Golf Course.

There are 24 multi-family structures containing from three to six townhomes, totaling 107 individual homes, situated on wooded winding roads and cul-de-sacs lit by unique lantern light poles. The townhomes are two, three, or four bedrooms and each has an attached garage and enclosed storage area. As a special amenity, Winster Fax has two outdoor hard-surface tennis courts for the exclusive use of its residents and their house guests.

It is virtually a “small town,” with families, couples, and singles representing several generations. Some are long-timers, others recent retirees, first-time homeowners and military families. Surely, William Fairfax would be pleased to lend his name to such a desirable place to live.

Winster Fax Floor Plans

Littletown Quarter

Littletown Quarter Parcel is nestled along the 7th and 8th fairways of the River Course just east of Kingsmill Road. Littletown Quarter is home to 100 full and part-time families who enjoy the dells, hills and spectacular views of the golf course and Wareham’s Pond. It was the second multi-family parcel to be built in Kingsmill; construction was in five phases from 1975 until 1984. Designed by well-known St. Louis architects, Peckham and Guyton, many townhouses have additions, some designed by local architects such as the renowned Carlton Abbott.

Today Littletown Quarter is a charming, diverse community with almost as many opinions as residents–a rich mixture that engenders debate, consensus and progress. We face the same “aging community” challenges as other parcels such as keeping garages and fences in good repair and landscaping and drainage issues under control. These matters are handled aggressively while staying within the budget.

The patio home variant of multi-family parcels came along with the development of Quarterpath Trace, which evokes images of a colonial village with brick walkways and “dependencies.” Phase I began in 1977 and the parcel grew until 1987.

Littletown Quarter Floor Plans

Archer’s Mead, named after 17th-century lawyer and secretary of the Virginia Colony, Gabriel Archer, was developed in five separate phases, with the first units being sold in 1980.

Archers Mead

Archer’s Mead is a picturesque meadow of approximately 30 acres, filled with graceful trees, gardens, and rolling ravines. A community of 112 units nestled among winding paths, Archer’s Mead’s active and diverse community-oriented events make it an appealing place to be.

A focal point of this community is a private pool and adjacent park area. In season, the pool is the source of activities such as water aerobics classes, poolside movies, holiday parties, and regular functions where neighbors bring beverages and snacks to share and catch up on the latest happenings. The park also serves as the community’s picnic area where grills and thematically decorated tables serve to host spring and summer outings. There are annual picnics on Memorial Day, Labor Day, and July Fourth, as well as the annual costumed Halloween party. The community also participates in Kingsmill’s Fourth of July Parade and has been awarded first place several times for its sense of spirit and the number of residents participating in our varied floats.

The spirit of the neighborhood is reflected in the care residents take in maintaining the natural beauty of the grounds. As a supplement to its landscaping contract, individuals have undertaken projects to add color and diversity of green spaces throughout the streets. Two of the notable achievements have been a redesign of the middle entrance into the community and a specially created flower bed created for the 400th celebration of Jamestown and for which Archer’s Mead received an award from the Historic Triangle Jamestown 2007 committee for its thematic red, white, and blue plantings and creativity.

Archer’s Mead Floor Plans

Harrop’s Glen is a Town Home community strategically situated along the picturesque 5th and 6th holes of the noted Pete Dye-designed Kingsmill River Golf Course. The community is comprised of only 31 residences, making it the smallest of the Kingsmill parcels. In addition to its contemporary architectural design, the community features an attractive park-like center island area comprised of native Pine, Holly, and Dogwood trees surrounded by a common driveway having single entry/egress off of Wareham’s Pond Road.

The community was developed in two distinct phases. Phase I, built-in 1981/1982, contained 12 units whose exterior design represented, at the time, a radical departure from the more colonial style dwellings common to the Kingsmill and Williamsburg area. The firm chosen for the project by then developer, Wareham’s Pond Associates, was Carlton S. Abbot a prominent local architect. Phase II, completed approximately 10 years later, was the creation of Busch Properties and designed by Magoon & Associates, another local Williamsburg architectural firm. Phase II consists of 19 units and follows in harmony with the Phase I architectural design,

Harrop’s Glen Floor Plans

Moody’s Run

Moody’s Run, set along the back nine holes of the River golf course, was developed in two phases in 1988 and 1989.

Although Moody’s Run was developed in 1998, its genealogy extends back to 1766 when its namesake, Mathew Moody, was the proprietor of an ordinary at Burwell’s Landing on the James. Here, Moody supplied good entertainment for travelers of genteel nature through 1770. The tradition of good living continues today in the 25.87 acres that encompass today’s Moody’s Run.

Far from the general ordinary of its times, with its stables and storehouses, Moody’s Run offers 49 townhouses set amidst the 11th and 15th holes of Kingsmill’s River Course, the first hole of the Plantation Course and the Golf Course Driving range. This is most certainly an entertainment-focused setting in keeping with its history.

The townhouses, which were developed over several years and in three phases, feature four different interior layouts, offering spacious living and expansive views.

Social life is very important in Moody’s Run. The swimming pool, which was completely refurbished in 2006, serves as the perfect place for residents and their guests to share good times, conversations, and exercise. In addition to pool-related events, residents of Moody’s Run enjoy dinners at annual meetings, adding to the established entertainment tradition of Mathew Moody whose goal was to offer a lifestyle of comfort and enjoyment.

Moody’s Run Floor Plans

Wareham’s Point is the crown jewel of Kingsmill in the Spring when the beautiful flowering cherry trees and daffodils lining the entrance and roads are in full bloom. When the summer sizzles, the crepe myrtles provide pizazz.

Wareham’s Pond was created by Busch Properties in the early 1970s. Between 1991 and 1993, Wareham’s Point’s 72 residences, offering four-floor plans, were completed in three phases. Many of the townhomes border the 7th and 8th holes and fairways of the River Course, while others are situated above Wareham’s Pond with vistas of the pond and the James River. Swans, cranes, eagles, and deer sightings delight all in this idyllic setting.

The parcel camaraderie has existed from the start. Wareham’s Point own Wine and Dine has evolved into two groups, with members changing yearly by a drawing. They meet monthly for cocktails at the hosts’ homes and then go out to dinner. In December, there is a holiday party; in June, a picnic. During the warm summer months, Wine and Diners love poolside parties. There are also ladies and men’s luncheons, golf, and bridge groups for recreation.

The spirit of Wareham’s Point is evident when residents volunteer to water newly planted flowers and shrubs during the hottest months and participate in daffodil bulb planting during December. The latter results in spectacular displays of daffodils blooming throughout Wareham’s Point during the Spring.

This same spirit is present in WPAGN (Wareham’s Pointers Are Good Neighbors.) There is always help when needed. Exterior staining of housing units is done by the parcel on a six-year cycle.

Wareham’s Point Floor Plans

Burwell’s Green/ The Green


Burwell’s Green, or as it’s more commonly known, “The Green,” is a picturesque parcel of luxury townhomes nestled around the 13th, 14th, and 15th fairways of the Plantation Course and three ponds. The 32 townhomes are spread among nine buildings all of which are carefully set among beautifully landscaped grounds, with many ornamental flowering trees.  Guernsey and Tingle’s 1990 architectural plans for a colonial-in-design brick and cedar townhomes reflect significantly on the proud history of “The Green’s” original residents–the Burwell family.

The remains of that plantation home and two dependencies are the focal point of the Kingsmill Plantation site and its historical marker, which overlook The Green. Richard Kingsmill, the original landowner, and the Burwells would, no doubt, be pleased to see that the current residents can, by a short walk, still access the James River which was the site of the Burwell’s 18th-century landing dock and warehouse complex.

An important feature of this community is a social committee that offers its residents an active agenda of memorable events such as a Christmas dinner, wine and appetizer events, and a monthly men’s breakfast, all geared toward ensuring life is good in The Green.  

Burwell’s Green Floor Plans


The most recent parcel to be developed is River’s Edge, which is a mix of attached and detached homes. Phase I was placed on the market in 1997, and since that time four other phases have been completed.

The Enclave is Kingsmill’s newest neighborhood, located between the 2nd and 9th hole of the famous River Course. This 24-unit Single-Family Attached community features golf, river, and resort views with floor plans that range from approximately 2,726-2,842 square feet.

River’s Edge Floor Plans

River’s Edge Luxury Villas are 3,000 to 3,900 square-foot, custom-designed, deluxe townhomes overlooking the James River. The focus of every room – from the kitchen to the master suite — is a panoramic vista of the river and surrounding natural settings. To fully enjoy the views, the homes also feature a front porch and a secluded, brick-and-stone textured terrace. Interiors of the villas include custom features such as built-in bookcases, ceramic tile and marble, and hand-crafted, hardwood millwork. These luxury townhomes, which include a private auto court leading to a two-car garage, are priced from the $800,000’s.

Condominiums

The River Bluffs condominiums sit 80 feet above the beautiful James River, offering panoramic views of the river and surrounding landscape. Resale prices for these mid-rise condos start around the $800,000s. River Bluffs, an area rich with military history, is located at the end of Wareham’s Pond Road on the James River. There are 23 large condominiums in unique high-rise buildings each with generous windows that are enhanced by a covered veranda in every unit that allows for additional enjoyment of the scenery. Residents enjoy assigned underground parking and temperature-controlled storage units.

United Property Associates provides exceptional customer service and support to the Homeowner Association, taking care of the grounds and facility maintenance contracts. A on-site facility specialist is located in the administration building adjacent to the condominiums.

River Bluffs Floor Plans

Resort condominiums consist of clusters of one, two, and three-bedroom villas with optional connecting guest rooms. They feature outdoor terraces overlooking the James River, Wareham’s pond, one of the community’s golf courses, and the tennis club. These are the only properties in Kingsmill that can be rented by their owners on a weekly basis.  As an option, under Kingsmill’s rental program, villas can be leased on a nightly basis to conferees and resort guests.  Prices range from $290,000 to $700,000.

The Kingsmill Quarterpath Trace neighborhood was designed to have the flavor of Colonial Williamsburg. The homes there are very close together as they were in Colonial Williamsburg. No garages but they do have detached garden sheds for storage. Both attached and detached homes were built in Quarterpath Trace most are fenced with white picket fences. Brick sidewalks add to the colonial flavor along with cedar shake roofs. Quarterpath Trace endeavors to be maintain its colonial essence.

The Kingsmill Quarterpath Trace neighborhood is located next to a walking/ biking trail that is a short walk to the Mounts Bay Community Pool & Recreation area by way of a tunnel under Mounts Bay Road. Quarterpath Trace is closest to the 199 Mounts Bay Kingsmill entrance, very convenient to the James City County Offices and Williamsburg’s newest shopping center, Quarterpath Shopping Center. It’s just a couple minutes to two banks, Harris Teeter Grocery Store and an assortment of shops.

Kingsmill Home Owners Association

The Kingsmill Community Services Association (KCSA) is a self-governing body with various volunteer committees that allow homeowners to take an active part in the activities and operation of Kingsmill. One resident noted that joining the association’s Lifestyle Committee “is a great way to get plugged in.”

Social Clubs at Kingsmill

The Kingsmill community is brought together with a large offering of social clubs geared toward residents of all ages. Clubs range from children’s playgroups and a swim team to Watercolor and Needle Arts groups, Men’s and Ladies Golf Associations, and a Garden Club.

Kingsmill’s Recreational Amenities

 All Kingsmill homeowners have access to the community’s beautiful hiking and biking trails, fishing & canoeing on its spring-fed ponds,  the river beach, and tennis courts. They can also enjoy recreation centers with outside swimming pools (including swim team competition and toddler pools) and playgrounds that dot the community, much of which is connected by the walking trails.

KINGSMILL TRAIL MAP

Kingsmill was designed with the beauty of the environment in mind and to create a park-like space in which residents could live surrounded by natural beauty and tranquility. Approximately 40 percent of the area is green space, a majority which is easily accessible. There is almost 10 miles of established paved trails shared for walking and biking. Unpaved trails, accessible only by foot, take you through woods, over ravines, and beside streams, constantly keeping you in touch with the sights and sounds of nature!

Bicyclists are encouraged to stay on paved routes; those who venture to pathways off main routes are encouraged to be cautious! These routes are natural ground, gravel, and rocks and maybe steep and uneven. These paths are subject to weather and natural conditions that may make them difficult to maneuver. Please enjoy the natural surroundings while being safe!

Kingsmill Resort

When it comes to Kingsmill on the James, we’re more than a beautiful residential community. We are also partners with Kingsmill Resort, Williamsburg’s only AAA Four Diamond resort.

For those choosing an optional membership in the Kingsmill Resort & Spa (there are two membership levels, “sport” and “golf”), numerous additional amenities are available.  Resort & Spa amenities include:

 Kingsmill’s World-Class Golf Courses

While our properties are contiguous and fully integrated, we are completely separate legal entities with different owners. Kingsmill Community Services Association (KCSA) is the homeowners association that oversee’s our recreation centers, roadways, and common/limited common properties. KCSA is owned by the homeowners of the properties within the residential neighborhoods.

The Resort, including the 3 golf courses, tennis center, restaurants, Resort pools and many other amenities is exclusively owned by Escalante Golf.

While each of the organizations (KCSA and the Resort) are owned by separate interests, we are truly partners in collectively creating an outstanding Kingsmill experience – whether as a homeowner or as a Resort guest.

Kingsmill Resort & Spa is Virginia’s largest golf resort, boasting 63 holes of world-class golf on three courses along the historic James River.  The pristine courses, designed with input from such golf legends as Arnold Palmer, Pete Dye, and Tom Clark, have been consistently ranked among the best by the nation’s foremost golf publications. Kingsmill’s Golf Club now has more than 1,200 members.

The resort’s year‐round golf academy offers half and full‐day golf school and private instruction. Home to over 30 years of PGA and LPGA tournament play , including the Kingsmill Championship, Kingsmill’s courses have garnered such distinctions as “Top 10 Best Courses for Women” by Golf Digest and #6 of Virginia’s Top 10 Golf Courses by Golfweek Magazine.

River Golf Course is Kingsmill’s 6,853-yard, par-71 championship course designed by Pete Dye.  The course includes hills, elevated greens, thick woods, and many water features. It has hosted the Michelob Championship at Kingsmill.  The River Course includes a driving range and practice putting green.

Plantation Golf Course has a 6,543-yard layout that is more wide open and less demanding of pinpoint accuracy. Designed by Arnold Palmer and Ed Seay, the championship course has water coming into play on eight holes, and is marked with historical landmarks from a 1736 plantation. It includes a driving range and practice putting green.

Wood Golf Course, Kingsmill’s newest addition, was designed by Kingsmill Touring PGA Pro, Curtis Strange. This championship course includes deep ravines, fairway bunkers, and elevated greens that offer players a real challenge.  It includes a driving range. The Woods Course has been honored by Golf Magazine as a “Top Ten New Course You Can Play.”

Kingsmill’s Boating and Marina

Kingsmill offers a full-service marina that includes 90 permanent slips with 15 transient boat slips, increased slip size, dockside fueling, a boat ramp, water and power connections, a marina store, and the James Landing Bar & Grille. Kayak, paddle boat, paddle board, and pontoon boat rentals are available, as are fishing and charter tours.

Kingsmill is located 35 miles upriver from the Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel, off channel marker #40 on the James River, and just a short cruise from the Intracoastal Waterway and the Chesapeake Bay.

Kingsmill’s Sports Club and Spa

Kingsmill’s Sports Club and Fitness Center is equipped with both indoor and outdoor swimming pools, including the seasonal River Pool. It also features racquetball courts, Cybex and Kaiser circuit training equipment, state-of-the-art cardiovascular stations, free weight equipment, and an aerobics studio with classes and personal training. Members also have access to a sauna, steam room, game room, whirlpool, massage therapy, and convenient babysitting services. A children’s Day Camp is available.

The community’s full-service spa offers a comprehensive array of restorative services, including massages, body and skin treatments, and specialized nail and hair treatments.

Kingsmill’s Tennis Club

The Tennis Club offers 15 tennis courts, including Deco-Turf all-weather courts and Vel-Play composition courts, two of which are lighted for evening play. The Club includes a newly renovated player’s lounge and locker facilities.

Kingsmill Resort Options for Dining Out

The community offers many restaurants on site, ranging from resort fine dining to casual family fare. Resort guests and members can dine at any of Kingsmill’s dining establishments, each boasting a distinct flavor that will leave a lasting impression long after the meal is finished. Whether you enjoy the rich, bold flavor of a steak grilled to perfection or lighter fare, Kingsmill’s menu of culinary creations will suit even the most discerning taste buds.

Elements 1010 However you describe it, our cuisine is a celebration of seasonal ingredients blended expertly together to form a culinary delight. With a wide-ranging and seasonally changing menu, there’s always something new to discover at Elements 1010. It’s comfort food in an elegant setting, with panoramic views of the James River providing the perfect backdrop to your dining experience

EAGLES Dine in style as you enjoy views of Kingsmill’s River Course and the James River at Eagles. Eagles features locally-sourced products and offers a selection of fresh and creative culinary choices in the restaurant, on the patio, or in the lounge.

JAMES LANDING GRILLE Enjoy an evening outdoors with friends, live entertainment and great food. Open seasonally, the James Landing Grille is an ideal setting for a memorable time. Enjoy time on the deck with friends and family and take in the fresh air and views of the adjoining marina as you dine on delicious food. Menu options include steaks, seafood and salads.

THE MILL Step into the bakery and take in the comforting aromas of freshly‐baked breads. The Mill features coffees, lattes, mochas and espressos made from organic and fair‐trade beans roasted in Virginia for a truly local flavor. Throw in its smile‐inducing, house-made gelato menu and you’ve got the recipe for a Virginia favorite.

CURRENTS During the summer, you can enjoy an entire day at the River Pool with the food and beverage selection at Currents. Currents has salad, sandwich and snack choices for every age and taste, along with comfortable poolside seating.

Public Safety at Kingsmill

The community has its own 24-hour police force with a highly-qualified staff, and two manned entry gates to ensure the safety and privacy of residents and guests.

Kingsmill’s Convenient Location

Kingsmill is located less than three miles from the College of William and Mary and the historic streets of Colonial Williamsburg, with dining, shopping, theme parks, and history tours. Grocery shopping is most convenient with a new Harris Teeter store right outside the entrance to Kingsmill. Fresh Market, Martins, Food Lion, Farm Fresh and Wal Mart Neighborhood Market are within a 10 minute drive.

Nearest Airports to Kingsmill include Newport News/Williamsburg (PHF), 20 minutes away; Norfolk International (ORF), 45 minutes away; and Richmond International (RIC), 45 minutes away.

Kingsmill’s Schools

Children living in Kingsmill attend public schools operated by the Williamsburg-James City County Public School Division, a joint school system that serves both localities. In recent years, Expansion Management magazine, which rates school systems nationally, has consistently rated this system with a gold ribbon, indicating ranking in the top 17% nationally of systems evaluated.

Kingsmill children attend:

  • James River Elementary
  • Berkley  Middle School
  • Jamestown High School

 CAMPS Kingsmill Resort offers kids and teens unique opportunities to enjoy all the resort has to offer. Throughout the summer and on holidays, Kingsmill Resort offers a variety of children’s programs designed to keep kids active and engaged.

Kid’s Camp: Kids choose from a variety of activities ranging from craft projects to physical fitness classing in the pool or at the arcade. This camp including children’s boot camp and yoga, as well as time play includes a host of activities, a healthy lunch and tons of fun.

Kid’s Night Out: Kids will have dinner, golf, visit the arcade with tokens, or play at the outdoor playground. Afterwards, kids can enjoy movies and a snack in the activities center, the game room or indoor pool area.

Kingsmill’s Rich History

The land now known as Kingsmill has a rich history dating back to Colonial America, and has played a significant part in the growth of the Jamestown colony and Williamsburg.  In fact, with its pastoral hills and woods located along the banks of the James River, the Hope area of Kingsmill was initially considered as a permanent base by the first Englishmen in 1607. However, they eventually decided to settle at nearby Jamestown, where their ships could anchor closer to shore.

Kingsmill Plantation. Located in the heart of Virginia‘s Historic Triangle, the property featured a bustling plantation from 1619 through the 1800s. Richard Kingsmill, who was granted one of the first land grants by the Virginia Company, an English organization charged with the founding and settlement of Virginia, initially purchased 300 acres where Kingsmill Plantation later was located.

In the mid-1730s, Colonial customs inspector and British Colonel Lewis Burwell III bought 1,400 acres of Kingsmill’s original plot. On the area that is now the site of the Plantation Golf Course, Burwell built a plantation with a grand mansion and outbuildings. He called it Kingsmill Plantation. A thriving, small riverbank community developed around it. The mansion burned in 1844, leaving only the office and kitchen intact; they are among the earliest brick dependencies in Virginia and can be viewed on the second hole of the Plantation Golf Course.

Burwell’s Landing and Ordinary. As headquarters for his inspection station, Colonel Burwell also established the Burwell’s Landing ferry and warehouse, which became a major port of entry for Williamsburg during the 18th century.  The Landing also was home to a popular tavern, Burwell’s Ordinary, spurring the area’s growth as a social hub. The Burwell’s Landing site is visible from the 17th golf hole of Kingsmill’s River Golf Course.

Other plantations on the Kingsmill property. In the 1640s, Colonel Pettus built a tobacco plantation, called Littletown Plantation, on the property now featuring Kingsmill Resort’s marina.  Around 1700, James Bray II built a brick house overlooking the James River; substantial foundations of this home still stand today located on the path between the Resort Center and the spa.

Revolutionary and Civil War connections to Kingsmill. Kingsmill Plantation saw action during the Revolutionary War.  In the fall of 1775, as Patriot forces began to assemble near Williamsburg, the Colonial Governor of Virginia, Lord Dunmore, ordered that British ships patrol the James River to stop rebels from crossing by ferry. On November 5, 1775, militiamen from Chesterfield County assembled near Williamsburg, planning to embark upon Norfolk. The British vessel The Kingfisher patrolled the river but failed to stop 1,000 Colonial militiamen from crossing. The Kingfisher exchanged fire with a Colonial vessel at Burwell’s Ferry, but with no decisive action. Later, the Colonial Americans built two earthen forts in the area.

In 1781, at the end of the Revolutionary War, French forces under the Marquis de Lafayette utilized Burwell’s Landing as they docked and moved inland. Later that year, Colonial General Thomas Nelson and his militia foiled Benedict Arnold’s plan to land at Burwell’s Ferry, The Americans’ earthen forts were captured by the British that year.

The Civil War also saw battles in the vicinity of Kingsmill Plantation. Union General George B. McClellan’s Peninsular Campaign engulfed the plantation, as an army of 120,000 men landed and moved inland through the area on their way to Richmond. Several Confederate defensive lines, such as the Warwick and Williamsburg lines, also ran through the property. In 1865, the Battle of Williamsburg was fought on the property; the Confederates lost 1,682 men and the Union lost 2,283.

Artifacts from excavations on the Kingsmill property are on display at the Resort Center, the Jamestown Settlement Museum, and the Virginia Historical Society in Richmond.

Development of the Kingsmill community. The Kingsmill Community Services Association was incorporated in 1973 and lots were soon sold to builders and potential homeowners. Many of those who bought homes in 1974 still live in Kingsmill.

Beginning in the early 1970s the Kingsmill neighborhood and Kingsmill Resort were developed by Anheuser-Busch as a portion of the brewing company’s development of diversified activities in the Williamsburg area, which grew to include not only the brewery, but the Busch Gardens Williamsburg theme park, and the adjacent office and business properties.

The St. Louis-based brewer invested in the area following negotiations held between August Busch, II and Winthrop Rockefeller, a son of Colonial Williamsburg’s initial chief mentor, John D. Rockefeller, Jr.. Winthrop Rockefeller had been serving as both governor of Arkansas and chairman of Colonial Williamsburg in the 1960s and 1970s.

Both Winthrop Rockefeller, who died in 1973, and August Busch II, who died in 1989 have been credited by some historians with helping develop the Greater Williamsburg area into one of the top tourism destinations in the world. They felt that augmenting the attractions of the Historic Triangle of Colonial Virginia (Jamestown, Colonial Williamsburg, and Yorktown) with other attractions which would help draw future families to the region, as well as help balance out the local economy.

The Resort was incorporated in September 1975 to coincide with the grand opening of the golf club. The River Golf Course opened that year, followed by the Plantation Golf Course in 1985, and the Woods Golf Course 10 years later. Many nationally known sports and show business figures, including Presidents Gerald Ford and Bill Clinton, have played at Kingsmill Resort

What Residents Have to Say About Kingsmill:

We all have concerns about moving into a new community.  So, what is it like to actually live in Kingsmill?  Here’s what residents have to say:

It’s a kid-friendly community that gave us a “fabulous” welcome. Heidi and Chris Cook moved into Kingsmill in 2014 with a bit of trepidation. They loved the location that made commuting to their four Little Caesars Pizza shops so convenient. And they loved the neighborhood’s beautiful, mature landscaping and 1970s homes. But what about the neighbors? There were many older residents drawn to the amenities-rich community, but how would their two young children fit in?

“The week we moved in, numerous neighbors came by with baked goods,” Heidi said. “It was like a TV show… it absolutely exceeded my expectations!”

“Within the first week, I was already attending a Kingsmill playground picnic,” she added. “I was a little afraid of going into a community with an older population, but there are lots of kids in play groups and tons of families here. I felt very connected right away.”

Heidi noted that Kingsmill is the type of place where kids ride their bikes around and that was fine with her.  “It’s gated with its own police force, so we feel very safe here.”

Heidi also found that Kingsmill offers a slew of recreational choices for adults.  “I joined the tennis league and my husband is a golfer,” she said. “There are a lot of clubs geared toward all ages. Plus, there is a Lifestyle Committee – joining that is a great way to get plugged in!”

Chris and Heidi love Kingsmill. “We’ve made good friends here,” Heidi said. “And neighbors keep in touch with each other through the community website and the Facebook page.”

Longtime Kingsmill residents Dotty and Jack Gabig chose a parcel in Kingsmill, the last one available on a street where her friends lived. “We liked that the Kingsmill neighborhood had mixed architecture,” Jack notes. “The lot was level and the right size. Plus, it had a private back yard.” In 1999, the couple custom-built their traditional Colonial-style home in Kingsmill.

Jack says he was not really a golfer when he moved in because he hadn’t had much time to play. “But I became a golfer after I moved into Kingsmill,” he notes.

Kingsmill offers many programs and events, and the couple notes that one way to get to know the neighbors are at the rec center. “There’s a lot to offer here — dancing, the boat club, and so on — and it’s up to you to find your niche,” Dotty says.
There are also activities informally organized by neighbors, such a block parties and some of Dotty’s favorites, the “Stitch and Chat” and “Wine and Dine” groups.
Jack notes his neighbors are very welcoming. “The first day we were here, someone was pounding on our door like the cops,” he says. “It was a neighbor who brought over a meal.”

If you need something, like a ride to the shop to pick up your car, you just call a neighbor. If you go anywhere, your neighbors check on your place; many of us have keys to other neighbors’ homes.”
The couple says that Kingsmill’s population is changing. “Seven or eight years ago, we didn’t see many children,” Jack notes. “Now, we see young people moving in, and it’s not uncommon to see children out on their bikes. Kingsmill is a thriving community with new people coming in all the time.”
The Gabigs also note that the greater Williamsburg area is a great place for becoming active with the community. For example, Jack does community service work as a court-appointed advocate for at-risk kids. “If you have a liking to do something in a small town like Williamsburg, it’s easy to get involved,” he says.

“Entering Kingsmill is like crossing over into a different place; one that’s
consciously separate from the rest of the world. Living there is an escape,
where you can truly relax”

“It felt like I was on vacation every day.”

“Whether you’re fighting traffic on your way home or had a stressful day, once you turn into Kingsmill you can let your hair down. It’s kind of like a taking a deep breath.”

“It’s a crazy world out there. For me, it’s about being able to leave the world behind when you come into Kingsmill. There’s a certain amount of stress relief that [you feel] when you come through those gates.”

Ready to Check Out Kingsmill or other neighborhoods in Williamsburg VA?

I am a local Realtor who knows this friendly and active community very well. I would be happy to answer your questions, get you acquainted with the community, and help you find that perfect Kingsmill home.  Just call/ text me, John  Womeldorf, aka “Mr Williamsburg” at 757-254-8136, or send me an email at  John@MrWilliamsburg.com

Location map for Kingsmill -Williamsburg VA


Psssst! I wanted to let you in on a little secret. While I am a real estate agent…I am a different kind of real estate agent. I am creating a revolution in realty by combining everything you love about this area all into one place. Known around town as Mr. Williamsburg, I combine my extensive knowledge of the Williamsburg, Richmond, and Hampton Roads areas with my expertise in helping buyers and sellers navigate the ever-changing local real estate market to create a top-notch experience that checks all of your boxes.

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Your real estate journey is just that…yours. I get that it’ll be unique. It needs a marketing plan and a committed real estate professional to guide you every step of the way. To talk further, you can reach me via phone or text at 757-254-8136 or through email at John@MrWilliamsburg.com.

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