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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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Battle of Hanging Rock
1/20

Battle of Hanging Rock

A program on the Battle of Hanging Rock, led by renowned historian Bert Dunkerly, will be given on Tuesday, January 20 at 7 p…

Gnome Day
1/31

Gnome Day

Come join us as we celebrate the artist whose work inspired our exhibits, Vernon Grant, and his love for Gnomes! Enjoy lots o…

A man dressed in traditional Irish attire carries a large Irish flag during Irish Fest Camden, surrounded by festival goers and colorful banners on an open field.
3/07

Irish Fest Camden

The 7th Annual Irish Fest Camden is 3 days of fun events celebrating Irish and Celtic heritage. Make Camden, South Carolina y…

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Clover St. Patrick's Day Festival
3/13

Clover St. Patrick’s Day Festival

Clover’s 2026 St. Patrick’s Day FestivalJoin us for a full weekend of fun, music, food, and community as…

Burned Churches in the American Revolution
3/17

Burned Churches in the American Revolution

A public history lecture with Bill Segars. During the American Revoluti…

Carolina CupMap Pin
Camden, Springdale Race Track
3/28

The Carolina Cup

Join us for the 91st running of The Carolina Cup Races on March 28, 2026! This South Carolina tradition blen…

Two people in colorful frog mascot costumes pose together in front of a fountain during the Come-See-Me Festival, with families enjoying the outdoor event in the background.
4/16

Come See Me Festival

The Come-See-Me Festival will be back and better than ever in 2026! This year, you’ll be able to enjoy friends and family,…

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Crowds gather on a sunny day at the South Carolina Strawberry Festival, with families and visitors enjoying live entertainment near an outdoor stage surrounded by trees and vendor tents.
5/01

SC Strawberry Festival

Many exciting activities are planned for this festival that includes a Kids Zone with rides and activities, live entertainmen…

Best Dam Food Fest
5/09

Best Dam Food Fest

Savor the flavors of the Best Dam Food Festival at Catawba Park in Tega Cay, SC. Set against the backdrop of the Catawba Da…

People at Italian Festival at church
5/14

St. Philip Neri Italian Festival

The Italian Festival, St. Philip Neri Church’s biggest fellowship event is held each May. Celebrated since 1998, the Festiv…

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Lancaster Mural

5 Reasons To Visit A Small Town

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…

Celebrate Galentine’s Day in the Olde English District 

Celebrate Galentine’s Day in the Olde English District 

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 Hikes in the OED

Winter Hikes in the OED

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…

The Inn Upon Moon River Plantation Blues Bed & BreakfastMap Pin
owners of The Inn Upon Moon River Plantation Blues Bed & Breakfast

Staying Inn Love: The “Soulmates” Behind Inn Upon Moon River Plantation Blues B&B

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…

The Retreat at Lake WatereeMap Pin
The Retreat at Lake Wateree

Two-Day Foodie Getaway: A Taste of South Carolina Food

Whether you’re a self-proclaimed “foodie” or just like to eat, the Olde English District boasts delicious local eateries for every kind…

History comes alive in the Olde English District.

 First Day Hikes at South Carolina State Parks and Historic Sites

The Olde English District is proud to be home to nine beautiful South Carolina State Parks, each offering unique opportunities to explore history, nat…

Must Try Sweet Treats in The Olde English District

Must Try Sweet Treats in The Olde English District

It’s the season to treat yourself, and the Olde English District is serving up plenty of sweet treats to indulge in. From classic Southern favori…

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The Mercantile

The Olde English District’s Ultimate Gift Guide

Santa’s sleigh isn’t the only place you’ll find the best gifts for the holidays this year. Discover the best gift shopping in South Carolina at the lo…

People marching in a Christmas Parade

Celebrate the Season: 2025 Christmas Parades in the OED

Nothing kicks off the holiday season quite like a Christmas parade. Across The Olde English District, communities ring in the most wonderful time of t…

ChristmasVille: A Magical Holiday Experience in Old Town Rock Hill

ChristmasVille: A Magical Holiday Experience in Old Town Rock Hill

If you’re looking to soak up holiday spirit, get into a joyous mood, and make some truly memorable winter memories then you’ll want to head to Christm…

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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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#OEDtravel

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.

Looking to eat cleaner this New Year? 🥗 We’ve got you covered! Swing by @everydaygourmet.camden in downtown Camden, serving fresh, delicious lunches since 1985. 🌿 

#oedtravel
Last night, we were truly honored to warmly welcome the Venerable Monks of the “Walk for Peace” to the Olde English District. In recognition of their inspiring journey and the serenity they bring to our landscape, the OED is delighted to formally name the monks—and their beloved dog, Aloka—as Honorary Tourism Peace Ambassadors. 

Their journey through our region has made them a meaningful part of our story. By walking through our communities, they embody the very best of our spirit and represent the true heart of our hospitality. 

Their presence is a beautiful reminder that peace is not just a destination, but a journey best shared.

As they continue to traverse our district, we invite everyone to join us in celebrating their mission of spreading loving-kindness and their commitment to more peaceful days. 🕊️
We’re honored to welcome the venerable monks on their Walk for Peace and Aloka the Peace Dog to South Carolina’s Olde English District! Last night, they rested in the Town of Ridgeway. Today, they will trek to the Town of Great Falls and then on to York County as they move on to North Carolina.
The OED is proud to welcome folks from all walks of life but these few days are extra special!

📸: Walk for Peace

#oedtravel #peacetourism #discoversc
Here are five reasons why you should consider an escape to the small towns of the OED for a 2025 vacation:

📍 The OED is easily accessible
📍 Small-Town vacations tend to be more affordable
📍 Small Towns have unique lodging options
📍 Small Towns offer a variety of things to do
📍 Small Towns host unique festivals & events

Find out more about the small-town charm and amenities throughout the OED at the link in our bio!

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Looking for an easy winter walk? ❄️🌿
The Lindsay Pettus Greenway in Lancaster County is perfect for a peaceful stroll, bike ride, or family-friendly outing with cool-weather views along the trail.

If you’re looking for more winter hikes across the Olde English District, read our full blog — link in bio!

#oedtravel