Keswick Hall in Charlottesville, VA, has been inducted into Historic Hotels of America, the official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation for recognizing, celebrating and promoting historic hotels in the United States. Keswick Hall is one of more than 300 hotels and resorts throughout the country that is recognized by Historic Hotels of America for preserving and maintaining its historic integrity, architecture and ambiance.
“Historic Hotels of America is delighted to induct Keswick Hall, a former private residence built in 1912,” said Lawrence Horwitz, executive vice president of Historic Hotels of America and Historic Hotels Worldwide. “We commend Keswick Hall owners Molly and Robert Hardie and leadership team for their careful historic preservation work, stewardship and vision that will allow future generations of travelers to experience this unique historic destination.”
To be selected for membership in Historic Hotels of America, a hotel must be at least 50 years old; designated by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior as a National Historic Landmark or listed in or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places; and recognized as having historic significance.
Located in Virginia’s countryside, Keswick Hall’s history began in 1912 as Villa Crawford, the private residence of Robert and Lizzie Crawford. Over the years, the estate has seen various transformations, including a revival in the 1990s by Sir Bernard Ashley, husband of designer Laura Ashley. His vision transformed it into a luxury hotel. In 1999, Orient-Express Hotels (now Belmond) acquired the site. In 2016, Keswick Hall was purchased by its current owners and Charlottesville locals, Molly and Robert Hardie, who oversaw a renovation spanning more than four years. The project, completed in 2021, enlisted the expertise of world-renowned firms, including architecture and design firm Hart Howerton, lighting design specialists L’Observatoire International and landscape architects Nelson Byrd Woltz.
The resort now features 80 guestrooms and public spaces adorned with curated works from local artists, including photography, pressed plant art, and abstract paintings that celebrate Virginia’s natural beauty. Crawford’s Bar, located in the original Villa Crawford, serves as the heart of the estate. Adjacent is Marigold by Jean-Georges, offering a farm-to-table menu. Other facilities include a spa, infinity pool, championship golf course, and tennis and pickleball courts.
For more information, visit www.keswick.com.
Related Stories
Concord Museum to Commemorate Start of American Revolution
San Diego Hotels Offer Discounted Rates for Wildfire Evacuees