Welcome to Ridgely!
Ridgely has been a fixture in the Alleghany Highlands for over 100 years, welcoming friends, family, and guests to relax and unwind in its comfortable setting.
Built in 1902 by Ambrose and Rives Ford, Ridgely was and remains one of the most spectacular homes in the Highlands, known by many throughout the region simply as The Ford House.
From the time of its construction, Ridgely has known only 3 families to call it home - The Fords, The Roberts, and now Sean and Lisa Dunster. We welcome you to experience a house and gardens like none other.
Built on the side of Fore Mountain, Ridgely and Ridgely Gardens encompass 2 acres, with dozens of varieties of flowers, plants, bushes, and trees, many of which have been here since the 1920s. Walk the grounds enveloped by nature, sit and relax among the beauty, leave refreshed and wanting to come back again and again.
The House
One of the oldest houses in Clifton Forge, Ridgely has been lovingly maintained to where most of the original design, architecture, and charm remain. Yet it has also been meticulously updated with many of the modern features guests come to expect in a home this grand.
A walk through Ridgely is a walk back through time where elegance and comfort meet.
The Gardens
The gardens at Ridgely were designed in 1926 and remain virtually the same as when it was first landscaped. Once home to Mrs. Ford's prized roses, several heirloom rose bushes still thrive after nearly a century. Three large oak trees serve as guardians to the property, keeping watch for close to 200 years. This is in addition to magnolia, birch, pine, maple, peach, apple, and dozens of other trees, plants, and flowers. Three levels connected by paths and walkways make up the perfect location for small weddings, office parties, and corporate retreats.
OUR SERVICES
Breakfast
We provide a hot breakfast of specialty dishes each morning, prepared just for you. We take into consideration any
dietary restrictions.
Free Wifi
High-speed internet is available throughout the house, gardens, and meeting space, allowing you to work, stream, or simply
surf the web.
Weddings
Let Ridgely and our beautiful gardens serve as the backdrop for your special day. The perfect spot for that intimate wedding.
Office Parties/Showers
Ridgely offers spacious indoor/outdoor areas to host office parties, baby showers,
or bridal showers. Contact us for more details.
Art/Photography Clubs
Let the gardens move your creative spirit. We welcome artists of all genres to find inspiration at Ridgely, as they have for generations. Contact us to arrange your visit.
Meeting Space
Ridgely Gardens includes a private air-conditioned meeting space perfect for corporate retreats, off-site meetings, or club functions. Contact us to see how we can help coordinate your next gathering.
Amtrak Shuttle Service
Give yourself an extra special treat and ride the Amtrak Cardinal train to Clifton Forge! See some of the most spectacular scenery from the rails, we'll come pick you up when you arrive.
THINGS TO DO
Lexington, VA
Just 30 minutes down the road, Lexington offers a wonderful mix of shopping, dining, and sightseeing. Home to the Virginia Equestrian Center and Washington & Lee University, Lexington has something for everyone.
Outdoor Adventures & Activities
From fishing to hiking, kayaking to skiing, Clifton Forge is perfectly situated so you can take advantage of the many outdoor opportunities in the area. Whether it's riding a bike or riding a horse, there's something for everyone's pace.
Lewisburg, WVA
A short drive up I-64 through the beautiful mountains of West Virginia, Lewisburg was voted the Coolest Small Town in America. Take a tour of the famous Greenbrier Resort Bunker or go to Lost World Caverns. Or simply browse the shops and galleries
on Washington St.
What our guests say...
