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.
x
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
March 26 and April 2. From 6-8 pm Come create a birdfeeder or mug with me! Be prepared for a great time and fellowship as we play in the clay. All too…
Get ready to party with Mother’s Finest the night before the Carolina Cup! The first ever CUP FEST will take over Downtown Camden and is FREE to att…
“Gateway to the Backcountry, the River Port of Camden, South Carolina” Lon D. Outen, Author and Research Assistant, Camden Archives and Museum Thi…
“Gateway to the Backcountry, the River Port of Camden, South Carolina” Lon D. Outen, Author and Research Assistant, Camden Archives and Museum Thi…
Join in the 91st running of The Carolina Cup, South Carolina’s “Rite of Spring”, on March 28, 2026! General Admission tickets allow entry to the…
Revolutionary War Visitor Center Located in Camden at 212 Broad Street, this attraction serves as a key historical and educational hub dedicated to the gateway to the Southern Campaign of the American Revolution. In fact, the Battle of Camden witnessed a crucial confrontation between the American and British forces during the war. Learn how South Carolinians were instrumental in turning the tide in the war for independence.
Skydive! Carolina Lookin’ for adventure? Head out to Skydive! Carolina at 1903 King Air Drive in Chester. Billed as the premier skydiving center of the Carolinas, this venue offers first-timers the opportunity to jump in tandem with a professional instructor from 14,000 feet. Training is, of course, provided prior to jumping. The entire experience is documented with photography and a DVD. They also welcome experienced and licensed skydivers.
Goodale State Park Located in Camden, this state park features a nature trail and canoe trail, which give visitors an excellent opportunity to view the native flora and fauna. Cypress trees line the spring-fed lake which offers boating and fishing. In the open water area, you can see ducks, kingfishers, osprey and occasionally bald eagles. Picnic shelters, tables, playground equipment and a meeting facility are available.Â
Inn Upon Moon River Plantation Blues B&B This plantation style home built in 1904, offers all the modern conveniences expected in comfortable and pleasant accommodations. The century-old front porch is perfect for watching the hustle and bustle of the community. The Inn is also a blues and jazz museum that contains the Dave CC Club Library for researching the blues. Located in the historic district, the inn is within walking distance to the quaint downtown.
Cotton Hills Farm Explore Cotton Hills Farm in Chester, a thriving family-owned farm since 1882, and South Carolina’s largest pumpkin farm. Offering seasonal fruit and vegetable picking, from strawberries in April-May to pumpkins in September-October, this farm presents an authentic rural experience. With its farm market and multiple locations, you can enjoy the farm’s fresh produce. Check out the special events, too!
Nestled in the rolling woodlands of Winnsboro, South Carolina, Rattlesnake Bike Park is quickly becoming one of the Southeast’s go-to mountain bi…
Each spring, Rock Hill, South Carolina comes alive in bright green as the community gathers for its signature event, the Come-See-Me Festival. Held an…
Across the Olde English District, rolling fields and backroads lead to some of the sweetest stops you’ll ever make. From strawberries in the spri…
Now that the New Year is here, it’s time to start dreaming about your 2026 vacation plans. Maybe you’re considering a trip abroad or imagini…
Who says Valentine’s Day is just for couples? Galentine’s Day is all about celebrating friendship, laughter, and the people who make life sw…
Winter might be more of a quiet season in some places, but in the Olde English District, it’s prime time for hitting the trails. Cooler temps, qu…
David and Elizabeth Claytor, innkeepers at Inn Upon Moon River Plantation Blues B&B, are soulmates, as they say. This Valentine’s Day, we have asked…
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.
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.
Welcome back, spring 🌸 Longer days, warmer sunshine, and fresh blooms are finally here, making it the perfect time for a stroll through Glencairn Garden.
From blooming camellias to peaceful ponds and vibrant seasonal color, this Rock Hill gem invites you to slow down and soak in the beauty. Whether you’re snapping photos or simply enjoying the fresh air, it’s always worth a visit.
Step back in time and stretch your legs at Andrew Jackson State Park 🌿
Explore peaceful walking trails, relax by the water , and discover the history of the 7th U.S. president at this scenic spot right here in Lancaster County.
Thrilled to be featured in @gardenandgun again! 🌸 Don’t miss the Rocky Shoals Spider Lily in bloom at Lilyfest, May 16–17 at Landsford Canal State Park—these stunning flowers only show their beauty for a single day! Thank you Alexandra Marvar for including the OED!✨
Fresh finds and local flavor are waiting at farmers markets across the Olde English District 🌽🍓 Support local farmers, browse handmade goods, and enjoy the season’s freshest produce.
Step back in time and experience the stories that shaped South Carolina at Rose Hill Plantation State Historic Site. From the grand plantation home to the peaceful grounds and preserved history, every corner offers a glimpse into 19th-century life and the complex past that helped define the region. With the beautiful weather outside, it’s the perfect time to stroll the grounds, take in the scenery, and explore the history that makes this site so memorable.
Sip your way through Camden’s historic downtown at @broadandvine 🍷 This former bank is now a sleek self-serve wine bar with an automated system and more than 30 wines to taste.
Step into history in downtown Ridgeway at Ruff & Company.
Established in 1840, this longtime community landmark blends everyday essentials with fascinating antiques on display throughout the store. It’s more than a place to shop, it’s a step back in time.
Sign up for the Olde English District’s eNewsletter to receive free travel resources, event updates, and tips on top attractions, dining, and unique things to do—all delivered straight to your inbox.