This South Carolina District Delivers Friendly Small Town Charm, Unique Local Shops, And Outdoor Adventure

Traversing seven picturesque counties — Chester, Chesterfield, Fairfield, Kershaw, Lancaster, Union, and York — South Carolina's Olde English District, named for the English who settled here in the 1770s, blends historic charm, authentic Palmetto State vibes, and outdoor adventure. Spanning roughly 200 miles through the sprawling Piedmont region, known for its rolling hills, winding rivers, and state parks, you can reach the heart of the Olde English District in around 90 minutes driving south from Charlotte or north from Columbia. Two to three days is enough to see the highlights, but five days to a week would give you the chance to connect with nature, get to know the charming towns, and immerse yourself in the history of the region. The district is best explored by car, allowing you to create your own itinerary, but the counties are also well-connected by public transport, making it possible to get around even if you don't drive.

Whether you want to take to the waterways in a canoe or lace up your hiking boots and tackle the trails, the options for adventure and relaxation in nature are almost endless. The district also offers ample opportunities to deep dive into the United States' storied past, from Civil War history at the Union County Museum to the Revolutionary War Visitor Center in Camden. Still, the Olde English District isn't a place that exists solely in the past. Rather, local communities here have their eyes firmly fixed on the future, creating a thriving hub of unique local shops and dining experiences. Don't miss Fort Hill's eclectic Shops on the Lawn, where you can browse everything from antiques to apparel, home decor to jewelry, and more, or Rock Hill's quirky Hickory Post, a one-of-a-kind furniture store and art gallery aiming to make art accessible to all.

South Carolina's Old English District is brimming with small-town charm. Rock Hill, the largest city in York County, is a shopping mecca with a classic aesthetic and artsy charm, while the downtown Fort Mill blends historic charm and quaint suburban life. Check out the "Fort Mill History Through Artist's Eyes," exhibition at the Fort Hill Museum for a look at the county's history from the 1600s to the present day. Afterwards, shop for local produce at The Peach Stand, try the world's hottest pepper at The Puckerbutt Pepper Company, or check out handcrafted pottery at Olive's Mud Puddle.

Then there's Clover, located in northwestern York County. Listed in the National Register of Historic Places for its collection of historic buildings, a wander around town offers a glimpse into the town's development since its founding in 1876. Grab breakfast at Clover Donuts before heading to Kings Mountain State Park to learn about the Battle of Kings Mountain, which took place here in 1780. Chester's Cotton Hills Farm is a wonderful spot for family-friendly fun. Dating back to 1882, this family-owned business allows visitors of all ages to immerse themselves in the daily workings of a real South Carolina farm. Learn all about local crops or pick your own fruits and flowers to enjoy at home.

Fancy more adult-friendly fun? Explore the Olde English District's fantastic local breweries, tasting rooms, and bars. Fort Mill's Amor Artis Brewing has gained a reputation for excellent craft beers, while Legal Remedy Brewing claims the title of Rock Hill's first brewery. Wine lovers will enjoy exploring the vast wine selection on offer at Broad and Vine in Camden or the scenic vineyard views at Laurel Haven Estate in Lancaster County.

The seven counties are havens for nature fanatics or lovers of outdoor adventure. Take, for example, the 523-acre Chester State Park, with its scenic nature trails, abundant flora and fauna, and pristine 160-acre lake that is ideal for boating, fishing, and kayaking. If staying on dry land is your thing, the Caney Fork Falls Trail is an easy 1.3-mile out-and-back trail that weaves its way through dense pine forest, offering scenic lakeside views and opportunities to spot native wildlife like lizards, birds, and frogs. However, if the water is calling your name, Chester State Park is the place to be. You'll find a rustic boathouse sitting on the lake where you can rent fishing boats, paddle boards, kayaks, and more. The pier is also a popular fishing spot with local catch including bass, bream, and catfish.

You'll find an array of fantastic nature experiences all across the Olde English District, including Landsford Canal State Park, South Carolina's overlooked riverside state park known for its wildflowers and dry canyon trails. Kershaw County's Goodale State Park is another highlight, with its 140-acre lake, three-mile out-and-back canoe trail, and two-mile nature trail loop that weaves its way through the diverse landscapes and ecosystems of this scenic park. If you're in the mood for a challenge, why not tackle the extensive 500-mile Palmetto Trail, the longest trail in South Carolina? Traveling through Union and Fairfield Counties, the trail encompasses mountain ridges, forest trails, and swampy areas.