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Berkeley County, West Virginia

by ShanaCorbin

The past is always present in Berkeley County, West Virginia, filled with history dating back to 1772. But here, visitors are also welcomed by downtown Martinsburg, with its contemporary shops and restaurants and a welcoming atmosphere. Martinsburg has been a hub of activity since the B&O railroad arrived in the 1840s. The Martinsburg Roundhouse and Caperton Train Station – one of the oldest functioning commuter rail stations in the country – are still at the heart of town and serve as a stop for Amtrak and MARC Commuter trains. The historic buildings that line the downtown streets are filled with a surprising variety of businesses. Shoppers will enjoy the variety of retail, from first-edition books and fabulous fashion to one-of-a-kind gifts and home décor. Dining options are varied, as well, from tapas and drinks in modern style to hometown specialties with a creative twist.

Located in the center of West Virginia’s beautiful Eastern Panhandle, Berkeley County is just over an hour’s drive west of Washington, DC, and is home to a variety of attractions. There are preserved manors surrounding the exquisite downtown architecture, tales of George Washington and clues of world-class geotrails with more than 210 active caches. Those who love to explore the outdoors can hike the Tuscarora Trail, paddle Sleepy Creek Lake or explore two diverse nature preserves. Cyclists can choose from the 10-mile paved Route 9 bike path or the mountain bike trail at Poor House Farm Park.

The farmlands are bountiful and the harvest is celebrated by locals and visitors of all ages. From spring through fall, the seasons are filled with U-pick opportunities, farm festivals and more.

Here, the museums and traditions pay homage to a storied past, while chefs, shopkeepers and entrepreneurs continue to build a vibrant present and a promising future. Visitors have the pleasure of enjoying it all on a visit to Berkeley County.

Combining a Berkeley County visit with time in neighboring Jefferson County is an excellent opportunity to enjoy more of West Virginia’s eastern panhandle and the special places and outstanding attractions the region has to offer.

Fast Facts

  • When the B&O railroad arrived in Martinsburg in the 1840s, it not only became a hub of commerce, but the Historic Roundhouse they built also became a hub in many chapters of America’s story. The Martinsburg Roundhouse is open by appointment only or during events for the public from April through the end of October
  • Martinsburg–our county seat–was founded in 1778 during the American Revolutionary War by Major General Adam Stephen. Built of native limestone in the late 1770s to early 1780s, the Adam Stephen House is a fine example of colonial stone architecture. The land on which the house was constructed was purchased by Adam Stephen in 1770 as part of a 255-acre tract. The house has been restored and is furnished with period pieces.
  • Visit the childhood home of Belle Boyd, a Confederate spy. This stalwart young woman crossed military lines several times to pass information to General Stonewall Jackson during the Civil War.  In a relevant career change after the war, Belle Boyd became an actress who often played femme fatale roles. The Belle Boyd House also serves as the Berkeley County History Museum and is the location of the county Visitors Center.
  • The Washington Heritage Trail driving tour follows the history of 18th-century towns, 19th-century industrial sites, Washington family homes, springs, rivers, and mountain ranges located along 136 miles of the scenic Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia.
  • Geocaching in Berkeley County is an unforgettable adventure that offers challenging caches for all experience levels. We have more than 213 active caches that have earned over 14,000 favorite points.
  • The Apollo Civic Theatre has been a Martinsburg cultural landmark since 1913. The Apollo features six main stage productions and hosts community and seasonal events throughout the year.
  • Defluri’s Fine Chocolates is a family operation that’s owned, loved, and tended daily by veteran chocolatiers. Using pure, quality ingredients in time-perfected recipes, the confections are made on the premises using traditional artisan candy making techniques.
  • The 28,000-acre Sleepy Creek preserve offers miles of scenic hiking, mountain biking, geocaching, hunting, fishing, camping and boating.
  • Road biking along the Route 9 bike path offers 10+ miles of rolling hills to explore. If you prefer to get dirty, try the mountain bike trail at Poor House farm and the many rugged trails in Sleepy Creek WMA.
  • Poor House Farm Park is a 207-acre county-owned park, providing numerous recreational and leisure activities. Amenities include a playground structure, sand volleyball courts, a 27-hole disc golf course, catch and release fishing (license required), public restrooms, and plenty of open green space. With seven miles of jogging and hiking trails and 3.5 miles of walking/bike trails, there is plenty of space to explore.
  • Orr’s Farm Market has been in the family since 1954. This 1,000 acre farm has delicious tree-ripened produce, from apples to peaches. In season, bring the family out to pick-your-own strawberries, cherries, blueberries, grapes, pumpkins and more!
  • Founded in December of 2013, Black Draft Distillery produces whiskey and bourbon, using unique and all-natural ingredients sourced less than ten miles away. Live music, food, and incredible outdoor space to relax highlight Black Draft.
  • Wonderment Puppet Theater, a full time, year round puppet theater for families with several original shows every year.
  • Downtown Martinsburg is a vibrant area featuring many popular restaurants and shops. Highlighted by Brix 27 restaurant, Jordan & Hess boutique and West Virginia Glass Outlet.
  • The Yankauer Nature Preserve is a historic farmland that is now forested. The backside of this 104-acre preserve overlooks the Potomac River. The site is one of the best locations for a spring native wildflower walk.

Annual Events

  • Eastern Panhandle Home Show Hosted by the Eastern Panhandle Home Builders Association, March
  • St. Patrick’s Celebration, Hosted by Main Street Martinsburg, March
  • House and Garden Tour, Hosted by the Shenandoah-Potomac Garden Council, April
  • Wine Festival,Hosted by Main Street Martinsburg, May
  • Founder’s Day/Martinsburg, May
  • Heritage Fair & Festival, Hosted by the General Adam Stephen Memorial Foundation, May
  • Toni Saylor Summer Concert Series, Hosted by The Martinsburg-Berkeley County Parks & Recreation, June-August
  • Summer Concert Series at Martinsburg Town Square, Hosted by Main Street Martinsburg, June-August
  • Independence Celebration Fireworks, Hosted by the Eastern West Virginia Regional Airport, July
  • Berkeley County Youth Fair, Hosted by Berkeley County Youth Fair Association, August
  • Mountain State Apple Harvest Festival, Hosted by Mountain State Apple Harvest Board, October
  • Christmas on Main, Hosted by Main Street Martinsburg, December

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