Gloucester County Launches First-Ever Guided Tours of Historic Courthouse Circle
History has always been part of the charm of Gloucester’s Main Street village—but now, it’s coming to life like never before. For the first time ever, visitors can join guided tours of the iconic Colonial Courthouse Circle, available every weekend through Gloucester County Parks, Recreation & Tourism.
This new program transforms a walk around the Courthouse Circle into a journey through centuries. Led by friendly Tourism Ambassadors, the tours offer engaging narration, fascinating facts, and a personal touch that you just can’t get from a history book. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of the people, events, and architecture that have shaped Gloucester County—from its Native American roots to its pivotal moments in the Revolutionary War, Civil War, and Civil Rights Movement.
The Stories You’ve Been Missing
Maybe you’ve been lucky enough to hear a quirky or inspiring story from our staff or volunteers—like the tale of prisoners bathing in a nearby creek, or the moving account of T.C. Walker passing by the trial of a young girl. Those special moments have been shared here and there, but far too few people have had the chance to hear them. That’s what these guided tours are all about—making sure everyone has access to the rich, colorful, sometimes surprising history that’s been right here all along.
What You’ll See
Guides will provide you an individualized tour of the fascinating histories of six landmark buildings:
Colonial Courthouse (1766)
Debtors Prison (1820)
County Jail (1873)
Clerk of the Courts Clayton Building (1823)
Clerk of the Courts Roane Building (1896)
Court Annex Building (1956)
Along the way, you’ll also explore points of interest like the Werowocomoco exhibit, Botetourt Building, Lemon Lane, Lawyer’s Row, and various memorials. While the interiors aren’t open for public walk-throughs, the storytelling makes these buildings feel like they open right before your eyes.
Flexible Ways to Explore
If you’d rather move at your own pace, pick up a self-guided walking tour brochure at the Gloucester Visitor Center or download it here.
Plan Your Visit
Guided Courthouse Tours: Saturdays, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. | Sundays, 1–4 p.m.
Visitor Center: Tues–Sat, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. | Sun & Mon, 1–4 p.m.
Gloucester Museum of History: Mon–Sat, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
Looking Ahead
These tours are part of Gloucester County’s expanding tourism and heritage programs leading up to the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. Through Gloucester250, the county is creating more ways for residents and visitors to connect with our unique history—one story at a time. Learn more at gloucesterva250.org.
Whether you’re reconnecting with your roots or seeing Gloucester for the first time, the Guided Courthouse Circle Tours are an unforgettable way to experience the past—right where it happened.