PrintMIDDLEBURG
Welcome to the nation's horse and hunt capital and home of the Chronicle! Perhaps the most long-standing equestrian area in the country, Middleburg appeals to the equine-inclined of all disciplines. Hunts, events and horse shows are held nearly every weekend. A drive through the countryside can comprise a pleasant afternoon in and of itself; but, of course, the area is not without its share of upscale restaurants, inns and attractions.
Where to Eat
Despite its small size, Middleburg has several quality establishments. Some of our favorites are:
Hunter’s Head Tavern
Upperville
This wildly popular tavern offers a wide selection of beers on tap as well as perfectly prepared and hearty tavern fare—food that is organic, local and humanely raised. It’s a great place to unwind after a long day.
Red Fox Inn
Middleburg
This historic inn where George Washington once stayed and dined is a must go for first time visitors to Middleburg. Red Fox Inn is one of Middleburg’s finer dining establishments—not the place to go straight from the show. Visitors can read Jaqueline Kennedy Onassis' hand-written thank you letters to the restaurant owner.
Dank’s Deli
Middleburg
The best place to get a sandwich in Middleburg! Though the salads and soups are delicious too. The food is very reasonably priced. Dank’s is a great place to order take out to bring back to the show.
The French Hound
Middleburg
Unimpressed by the Red Fox Inn? Come to The French Hound. Another of Middleburg’s classier establishments, The French Hound has an incomparable atmosphere with delicious French (surprise, surprise) food.
The Blackthorne Inn
Upperville
Going a little stir-crazy? The Blackthorne Inn is one of the few places near Middleburg with a nightlife (only on the weekend though). If you’re just interested in food, Blackthorne is still worth a visit. A self-described “bit of Ireland in the Virginia hunt country” Blackthorne serves a varied menu of fares both Irish and American.
Red Horse Tavern
Middleburg
Another location for nightlife, the Red Horse has live music on the weekends and a decent bar. The food is good basic pub fare. It’s a great place to eat during the summer. The large patio is perfect for warm weather and people watching.
What To Do
Who knew such a small town could have so much?
Feel like you never know enough about horses? Check out the National Sporting Library. The only one of its kind, the sporting library has more than 17,000 books on horse and field sports.
