Enjoying the Quiet of Berryville at Waypoint House
By Samantha Pigott
Ask Rachael Worsley, who, with husband Jonathan, operates Waypoint House B&B in Berryville, if they are Berryville natives, and you’ll get a reply that every transplant who has found their sense of home in Clarke County can appreciate. “No, but we got here as soon as we could!”
When Jonathan and Rachael Worsley met in college, they didn’t plan for the road of life to lead them to own and operate Waypoint House. The Worsley’s look at themselves as custodians of the home built in 1884 at 211 South Church Street. Nanny Maguire, who was a local piano teacher, first owned the home. They have found remnants of the packaging crate from a piano delivered to Maguire, addressed simply Nanny Maguire, Berryville Virginia.
They are the sixth owners of this beautiful home, and are diligent about its preservation. Both agree that when they were looking for a property, this was love at first sight. The original heart pine floors, the history, and beauty were exactly what the Worsleys’ had been searching for.
The three guest rooms are well appointed and cozy. Each room has a private bath and television (not always the norm for B&Bs). The Worsleys’ aim is to offer their guests a relaxing luxury experience. Rooms are equipped with USB ports, and the entire property has access to wi-fi. There is a beautiful weaving of authentic history and modern necessity.
The grounds are peaceful and inviting, including a delightful back deck area for reading or socializing tucked away beside the greenhouse. Rachael uses the greenhouse and garden patch to grow herbs and veggies that she uses in her cooking for guests. Rachael’s background in catering shines through her menu choices.
Nearly all her ingredients are locally sourced. She has an egg delivery lady, and if Rachael doesn’t grow it she can often find it at the farmers market. The guestbook is full of praise for the breakfasts—like savory ricotta and chive scramble on homemade bread or baked cinnamon French toast. In keeping with the personality of the operation, Rachael serves breakfast around her guests requests. It’s not ‘what time is breakfast served, but what time would you like breakfast?’
The range of guests has been remarkable, over the past three years. “We have had all sorts of people from all around the world here,” says Jonathan. His favorite was a photographer from National Geographic who admired some of Jonathan’s own photography that lines the walls of the dining room and is scattered throughout the house. The pictures are just another personal interesting touch.
Rachael has gathered a full lineup of places and things to do in and around Clarke County. She says many guests come for a getaway from the demands of city living, but haven’t thought of what they will do once they get here. Rachael then puts on her tour guide hat and becomes a kind of ambassador for Clarke County to the guests. “We love to share Clarke County with people,” she said.
Waypoint house is also pet friendly. While canine guests are the norm, the Worsleys have also hosted two cats, whom the couple found to be lovely guests and would be welcome back any time.
The Waypoint house is a beautiful and affordable place to stay while passing through. It’s also a terrific option for out-of-town family coming in for a visit.
Rooms range from $125 to $235 per night, including breakfast, depending on the room and the season. For information give Rachael a call at 540-955-8218 or check out www.waypointhouse.com.
