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Welcome to the
OLDE ENGLISH DISTRICT

Connect with Character

The Olde English District honors its storied past while embracing the future. Here you can enjoy small-town charm, outdoor recreation, unique shopping opportunities, wonderful eateries, fun family adventures and so much more. It’s also a fantastic place to simply relax and recharge, disconnecting from the rigors of everyday life.

Spanning the counties of Chester, Chesterfield, Fairfield, Kershaw, Lancaster, Union and York, we invite you to see all that we have to offer. We know you’ll love what you discover in South Carolina’s Olde English District.

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York County

Just south of Charlotte, North Carolina, York County is a vibrant area packed with outdoor recreation, local restaurants and buzzing breweries. It is home to Kings Mountain National Military Park (as well as a state park by the same name, which commemorates a key Revolutionary War battle). The Anne Springs Close Greenway is a natural escape, perfect for an afternoon picnic or leisurely hike. Grab a bite in Downtown Rock Hill, also known as Old Town, at Kounter, Elk Ave Tavern or Flipside Restaurant, and be sure to check out some of the nearby watering holes after a delicious meal.

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Union County

Officially in South Carolina’s “Upstate,” Union County starts to hint at the foothills that rise to rolling hills and vistas. A visit to Union is not complete without a tour of downtown Civil Rights-era historic sites — nor without a stop at Midway BBQ. History buffs will love the Rose Hill Plantation State Historic Site in Sumter National Forest, which tells the rich yet complicated story of many generations of plantation dwellers. Adrenaline junkies, however, may want to visit the Union County Dragway just southeast of the town of Union.

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Chester County

With various water access points, agri-tourism destinations and scenic state parks, Chester County offers opportunities for both outdoor adventure and relaxation. Visitors often gravitate to the Catawba River or Landsford Canal State Park. The 523-acre Chester State Park is a haven for hiking, picnicking, boating and fishing. From enjoying annual festivals such as the Flopeye Fish Festival in Great Falls or Lily Fest at Landsford Canal State Park to stopping by local farms for u-pick produce, Chester County is a breath of fresh air from life’s hustle and bustle.

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Lancaster County

With a rich art community, Lancaster County features galleries and a variety of collectives sprinkled throughout, including Bob Doster’s Backstreet Studios. The Lindsay Pettus Greenway intersects nature and public art in a surprising setting, while history buffs will not want to miss Andrew Jackson State Park, which tells the story of the President’s boyhood and South Carolina’s storied role in the fight for American independence. Also noteworthy is the Native American Studies Center housed at USC Lancaster with its impressive collection of Catawba Indian pottery.

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Chesterfield County

Downtown Cheraw is a quaint and cozy town for dining, shopping and learning the area’s history, including the life of hometown favorite, Dizzy Gillespie. Nearby Pageland supports a strong antiquing district while two state parks invite visitors to do as much or as little as they like. Cheraw State Park has an 18-hole championship golf course, mountain biking and hiking trails, and fully outfitted cabins and campsites. Nature lovers will enjoy Sand Hills State Forest and the Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge. Find all this and more in beautiful Chesterfield County.

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Fairfield County

Home to the South Carolina Railroad Museum, Fairfield County is the gateway to the 283-acre Lake Wateree State Park, which sports 100 paved camping sites, an on-site tackle shop and a mile-long nature trail. Situated on about 2,600 wooded acres, Carolina Adventure World offers the thrills of ATV, UTV and dirt bike riding. Fairfield County also celebrates the quiet charms of small-town living. Don’t miss Laura’s Tea Room in Ridgeway and the longest continuously running clock in the U.S. in Winnsboro, whose settlement dates back to 1777.

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Kershaw County

In the county seat of Camden, a vibrant downtown attracts foodies, antiquers, equine enthusiasts and pickleball players, among others. Nearby, you’ll find charming inns, distilleries, grist mills and historic sites that invite a leisurely stroll. Many varieties of birds make their homes in cypress stands along Lake Wateree, while Goodale State Park offers an excellent opportunity to view native flora and fauna. The Revolutionary War Visitor Center and the Historic Camden campus interpret the origins of the nation.

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Old Town Market in Downtown Rock Hill
4/11

Old Town Market in Downtown Rock Hill

The Old Town Market at Fountain Park is OPEN every Saturday, April 4 – November 21, 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM. There will be no markets in July or festiv…

Crafts & Farmers Market at Kings Mountain State Park
4/25

Crafts & Farmers Market at Kings Mountain State Park

Join us on the Living History Farm for a fun filled day. Enjoy a variety of local food & craft vendors as well as a blacksmith demonstration. Take…

Sundown Series Trail Race at Anne Springs Close Greenway
5/06

Sundown Series Trail Race at Anne Springs Close Greenway

Chase the sun toward the horizon with the Sundown Series Trail Races! Southern summers are long and hot, but evenings welcome a break from the heat. T…

Fort Mill Farmers & Artisans Market
5/09

Fort Mill Farmers & Artisans Market

The Fort Mill Farmers & Artisans Market is back for Its 7th Season! Join us for another incredible year of local flavor, creativity, and community…

Bird Walk at Catawba Bend
5/09

Bird Walk at Catawba Bend

Explore Catawba Bend Preserve with our trip leader as we look for resident and migratory birds. Guided for all skill levels ages 10 and up. T…

Food Truck Firday at The Fountain
5/15

Food Truck Firday at The Fountain

Food Truck Fridays at Fountain Park returns to Old Town Rock Hill with local food trucks, live music, and a fun night…

Hometown Heroes: Celebrating 250 Years of American Service at Fort Mill History Museum
5/21

Hometown Heroes: Celebrating 250 Years of American Service at Fort Mill History Museum

A special exhibit to honor Fort Mill veterans and experience the temporary military exhibit, which will feature stories and a…

Moonlight Paddle Float at Cheraw State Park
5/30

Moonlight Paddle Float at Cheraw State Park

Enjoy the beautiful sunset and natural beauty, birds and wildlife abound on the 361-acre Lake Juniper at Cheraw State Park on a moonlight ride you’ll…

Union County SC Humanities Festival
6/04

Union County SC Humanities Festival

The 2026 South Carolina Humanities Festival will take place June 4–13 in Union County, in partnership with Union C…

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Your Guide to National Picnic Month in the OED

Your Guide to National Picnic Month in the OED

July is National Picnic Month, and there’s no better way to enjoy the summer sunshine than with a basket of your favorite foods and a scenic spot…

All Aboard: Why the South Carolina Railroad Museum Is a Must-Visit in The OED

All Aboard: Why the South Carolina Railroad Museum Is a Must-Visit in The OED

If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping back in time to the golden age of rail travel, the South Carolina Railroad Museum in Winnsboro is the perfect…

Battle of Huck’s Defeat Reenactment at Historic BrattonsvilleMap Pin
Battle of Huck's Defeat

How to Experience the Battle of Huck’s Defeat Reenactment

Every year, Historic Brattonsville brings the American Revolution to life with its annual Battle of Huck’s Defeat reenactment. Taking place July…

Celebrate Independence Day in the OED

Celebrate Independence Day in the OED

This Independence Day, the Olde English District invites you to celebrate across communities filled with patriotic pride, family-friendly fun, and unf…

Celebrating Juneteenth Across the Olde English District

Celebrating Juneteenth Across the Olde English District

Juneteenth is a time to reflect, celebrate, and honor the enduring legacy of freedom, resilience, and progress. Across the Olde English District, com…

Bob Doster's Backstreet Studio

Bob Doster’s Backstreet Studio

In the heart of downtown Lancaster, Bob Doster’s Backstreet Studio is a place where creativity comes to life. Known for its larger-than-life meta…

Discover the Farms of the Brave Ag + Art Tour in the Olde English District

Discover the Farms of the Brave Ag + Art Tour in the Olde English District

Agriculture, artistry, and patriotism come together during the first statewide Farms of the Brave Ag + Art Tour, a unique experience celebrating South…

Cherry Place FarmMap Pin
goats at Cherry Place Farm

How to Experience the South Carolina Ag + Art Tour in the Olde English District

The South Carolina Ag + Art Tour is the largest free farm and art tour in the United States—and one of the most immersive ways to connect with th…

Cherry Place FarmMap Pin
goats at Cherry Place Farm

Bob Doster’s Two-Day Itinerary

MorningBegin your journey in Lancaster atBob Doster’s Backstreet Studio & Garden, where renowned metal artist Bob Doster has transformed his work…

Cherry Place FarmMap Pin
goats at Cherry Place Farm

Nikki Thomas’ Two-Day Itinerary

MorningBegin in Lugoff at Gorget Distilling Co., where founder Nikki Thomas brings small-batch distillation to life. Schedule a tasting or guided tour…

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From the suburbs of Charlotte, N.C., to tucked-away towns and rural communities, the Olde English District offers just the kind of getaway you need. We offer an array of hotels, bed & breakfasts, cabins, camping and more across our seven counties.

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We love to see you enjoying your time in the Olde English District. Share your photos on social media using #oedtravel for a chance to be featured in our gallery.

Sunset chasing at Lake Monticello 🌅✨
Golden skies, calm water, and that “wish this moment would last a little longer” feeling.

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Your Weekend in the Olde English District 🌟

📍 Chester County – LIVE After 5: Juneteenth Celebration
🎶 Head to Downtown Chester for an evening of live music, community celebration, and Juneteenth festivities.

📍 Chesterfield County – Music of the American Revolution at Old St. David’s Episcopal Church
🎻 Experience the sounds of the Revolutionary era through a special performance celebrating America’s history and heritage.

📍 Fairfield County – June Night Ride at Carolina Adventure World
🌙 Hit the trails after dark and enjoy a unique off-road adventure under the stars.

📍 Kershaw County – Living History Military Timeline at the Revolutionary War Visitor Center
⚔️ Explore military history through interactive demonstrations and displays spanning different eras of American history.

📍 Lancaster County – U-Pick Lavender at Lavender Flair in Heath Springs
💜 Stroll through fragrant lavender fields and pick your own bouquet while enjoying a relaxing day on the farm.

📍 Union County – Craft & Farmers Market at Union County Farmers Market
🛍️ Shop local produce, handmade goods, and unique crafts while supporting local vendors.

📍 York County – Town of Fort Mill Summer Beach Bash
🏖️ Enjoy beach-themed fun, live entertainment, family activities, and summer vibes at Walter Elisha Park.

For even more events happening across the region, be sure to check out our events page! 👀🌟

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