New Kent

What makes New Kent special

New Kent is the county seat and the cultural heart of New Kent County. This is where you'll find the historic New Kent Courthouse, a growing selection of wineries and tasting rooms, and a community that takes pride in being both welcoming and rooted. It's the kind of place where people wave from their porches and stop to chat at the farmers' market.

The area has seen thoughtful growth in recent years, with new construction and planned communities adding to the existing mix of established homes and rural properties. But despite that growth, New Kent has kept its small-town character intact.

Living in New Kent

Residents enjoy a quiet, country lifestyle with the convenience of being just 30 minutes from Richmond and 25 minutes from Williamsburg. The community is served by the New Kent County Public Schools division, which has earned strong ratings under Virginia's school performance framework.

The area is particularly popular with military families relocating to the region, thanks to its central location between multiple military installations and the support of a veteran-friendly community. New construction options range from single-family homes to planned neighborhoods with modern amenities.

Wineries and wine country

New Kent sits at the center of Virginia's growing wine country. New Kent Winery, a family-owned destination built from reclaimed pre-Civil War bricks and century-old heart-pine railroad trusses, is a local landmark and popular wedding venue. The winery's tasting room and events draw visitors from across the region.

The surrounding area also features Gauthier Vineyard in nearby Barhamsville — a woman- and veteran-owned working farm and equestrian center known for its relaxed, farm-based atmosphere and community pizza nights.

Outdoor recreation

New Kent County offers abundant outdoor activities, from fishing and boating on local waterways to hiking in the Cumberland Marsh Natural Area Preserve. Pine Fork Park in nearby Quinton provides trails, sports fields, and picnic areas for families. The Chickahominy River and Pamunkey River are both easily accessible for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing.