Loudoun County Homes for Sale

Loudoun County, VA, is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the United States by multiple websites and publications, including Niche, Money Magazine, and 24/7 Wall Street. 

Houses for sale in Loudoun County, VA, have plenty to offer their residents. A rich history, great schools, safe neighborhoods with an array of housing options, fabulous restaurants and unique shopping options, easy access to the fine arts, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun are just a few of the reasons most residents say they love living in Loudoun County homes. They also appreciate the close proximity of Loudoun County real estate to Washington D.C. and its ample entertainment options. 

History 

Founded in 1757, Loudoun County was named for John Campbell, the fourth earl of Loudoun. Born in Scotland, he served as Commander-in-Chief of the British Army and was chosen to be the first Governor General of Virginia. Interestingly, most historians now believe that despite serving as Governor, Lord Loudoun never actually visited Virginia. 

Many settlers were drawn to making their homes in Loudoun County because of its prime farming land, dependable water supply, and favorable growing conditions. Before long, the area was home to numerous tobacco plantations. 

Thanks to its ideal location near the Potomac River, Shenandoah Valley, and Blue Ridge Mountains, Loudoun County served as a major location during the Civil War. Some of the same pathways that the Confederate and Union troops marched along had once served as paths for the Underground Railroad. 

Once the Civil War was over, agriculture continued to dominate the area until Dulles International Airport was built in 1962, bringing with it new businesses, households, workers and opportunities in the Loudoun County real estate market.

Today, Loudoun County remains home to a variety of historical attractions and sites, allowing residents to take a step back in time. These include George C. Marshall’s Dodona Manor, Ball’s Bluff Battlefield Regional Park, Ball’s Bluff Battlefield and National Cemetery, Oatlands Historic House & Gardens, and the Loudoun County Courthouse, a building recognized for the significant role it played in the struggle for equality and freedom. Detailed information on the area’s history can be found at the Loudoun Freedom Center, the Loudoun Museum, and the Loudoun Heritage Farm Museum.

Homes in Loudoun County

The Loudoun County real estate market offers plenty of homes to choose from, whether you are searching for a starter home, a forever home, or have decided it is time to downsize. Houses for sale in Loudoun County range from 1-bedroom/1-bathroom condominiums that offer great amenities and maintenance-free living to magnificent single-family homes with too many upgrades to mention and acres of land, along with everything in between.

Houses for sale in Loudoun County are available in a diverse array of styles, including stately Colonials, storybook Cape Cod-style homes, contemporary townhomes, and more. Both historic homes and brand-new builds can be found throughout the Loudoun County real estate market, including homes that are move-in ready and those that need a little work to make it your own.

Shopping in Loudoun County

When it comes to shopping, those who choose a Loudoun County home have lots to choose from, starting with the Leesburg Premium Outlets, where you can find top designers and brands such as Coach, Kate Spade, Michael Kors, Nike, Samsonite, and Tory Burch at a discounted price. Just 10 miles away, Dulles Town Center is home to plenty more big-name retailers, including Dick’s Sporting Goods, Macy’s, Macy’s Backstage, Vans, Jared: The Galleria of Jewelry, and Foot Locker. 

Residents of Loudoun County homes who prefer to shop for something a little different can head to one of the many locally owned shops and boutiques in the area. Antique stores are popular in Loudoun County, and shops such Black Shutter Antique Center, It’s Bazaar on 21st Street, Rust and Feathers, The Hummingbird’s Nest, My Whit’s End, and Victoria’s Past Tyme give residents the chance to browse the highest quality vintage pieces and collectibles, possibly finding something just as unique as the store’s name. 

Speciality shops selling everything from handcrafted Amish furniture (The Aldie Peddler) to adorable and fashionable European and niche children’s clothing (Ashby Mae Children’s Boutique) can also be found throughout Loudoun County. Other shopping options include Another Turn Tack and Apparel for all things equine, Alpine Ski Shop, Books and Other Found Things, and Butterfly Hill Farm Store, which features local alpaca products, handmade one-of-a-kind fashion accessories, and yarn for crocheting. 

Due to the area’s agricultural history, it should come as no surprise that Loudoun County has its fair share of farmers markets and authentic country stores. Stores such as Paige’s Pit Stop and Great Country Farms stock fresh produce, eggs, jams, jellies, honey and more, while Bluemont General Store sells homemade pies and ice cream, alongside harness bells and laying hens. For artisanal goat cheeses, goat’s milk soap and more, a trip to quaint Georges Mill Farm Artisan Cheese is in order, while Waterford Market is the place to go for locally grown lamb, handmade woolen products and fresh milk. It’s also worth stopping by the many farms, such as Great Country Farms or Brossman’s Farm, that can be found throughout the county and sell local meats, eggs, cheese, produce, and locally made health and beauty products.

Dining in Loudoun County

Whatever you are craving, you are almost certain to be able to find it nearby if you choose a home in Loudoun County. Even more importantly, many of the locally owned restaurants proudly use organic and locally grown ingredients to create delicious and creative meals. 

If you are in the mood for Asian, Best Thai Kitchen and Sense of Thai St serve authentic Thai cuisine that perfectly balances spicy, sweet, bitter, sour and salty, while Yen’s Kitchen & Sushi Bar, Cafe Opera, and Jasmine Chinese Cuisine and Sushi are the places to go for Chinese. For delicious Japanese, look no further than locally owned Akira Sushi, OKADA Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar, and Noku Sushi.

If you prefer something spicier, Señor Ramon Taqueria is a local favorite known not only for their street-style tacos, carnitas and Mexican corn, but also for their excellent customer service. Other favorites include Los Toltecos of Sterling, Anita’s New Mexico Style Mexican Food, and King Pollo of Sterling. 

Comfort food is also easy to find in Loudoun County, thanks to Johnny Ray’s Sultry Soul Food, Tuscarora Mill Restaurant, Melt Gourmet Cheeseburgers, and Ford’s Fish Shack, where their goal is to serve the best and freshest seafood you can find in Northern Virginia. Thinking of having lasagna, calamari or chicken marsala for dinner? Ciro Ristorante, Travinia Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar, and Solo NY Pizza are just a few of the great options available in Loudoun County. 

For a sweet after-dinner treat, Dolce & Ciabatta Bakery is well known for its phenomenal made-from-scratch pastries, cakes and cookies, while locals agree that Mom’s Apple Pie Bakery has the best pies around. 

Wineries and Craft Breweries 

Known as DC’s Wine Country, Loudoun County is very proud of the more than 40 award-winning wineries that call it home. In addition to serving expertly crafted wines made from some of the finest fruit Virginia has to offer, many of the wineries also offer spectacular views. Bluemont Vineyard is one example that is perfectly nestled on the first ridge of the Blue Ridge Mountains, allowing for panoramic views of the vast orchards and valleys. Stone Tower Winery is another option that is well known for its breathtaking scenery. Planning trips to the many wineries in the area is perfect for weekend fun without having to travel too far from your home in Loudoun County.

Loudoun County has also developed a reputation for being the craft beer hub of Northern Virginia, thanks to the more than 30 craft breweries that can be found throughout the 521-square-mile area. The LoCo Ale Trail offers the unique opportunity to try almost all of them and win cool prizes. Most of the laidback breweries offer indoor and outdoor seating and often host live music. 

Entertainment Options in Loudoun County

Those who buy a house for sale in Loudoun County will be pleased by its thriving art, theater, and music scene. Following the Loudoun County Artisan Trail is one of the easiest ways to see most of what the area has to offer. More than 150 sites participate in the trail, including studios, galleries, agri-artisan farms, creative artisan studios, and markets, along with other points of interest. This self-guided tour includes stops by the Lillian Miller Art Studio, The Painted Pig, Tryst Gallery, and Vintage Magnolia. Various exhibits and events, such as the Purcellville Music and Arts Festival and the annual Western Loudoun Artists Studio Tour, are also hosted throughout the year, giving residents of Loudoun County real estate plenty of opportunities for weekend fun.

Anyone in the area who loves to listen to live music will appreciate the many options available near Loudoun County homes. Tally Ho Theater is a favorite among locals and hosts live music almost every weekend. Performers frequently include tribute bands, including The Amish Outlaws and The Ten Band, covering top hits from the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s, as well as the occasional DC Improv Presents night, where standup comedians take to the stage. 

During the summer months, there’s plenty of music to be heard at The Village at Leesburg as well as several local wineries, including Tarara Winery, 868 Estate Vineyards, and Breaux Vineyard. Leesburg’s First Friday is also the perfect place to listen to live music, while also taking advantage of everything Downtown Historic Leesburg has to offer. 

There are several live theaters throughout Loudoun County that bring stories to life. Run Rabbit Run Theater has brought everything from Shakespeare and contemporary works to musical adaptations and original plays to the stage, often while earning critical acclaim. Arts for All Loudoun is another great option, known for producing all-ages shows such as Seussical.

Holiday Festivals and Annual Events

There is no shortage of festivals, craft fairs and annual holiday celebrations for Loudoun County home residents to take part in, such as the Northern Virginia Fine Arts Festival, which is held every May and is considered one of the top five outdoor art festivals in the country. Other options for residents of Loudoun County homes include the Northern Virginia Christmas Market, the Leesburg Flower and Garden Festival, and Abundance Fest, a unique indoor/outdoor event that includes vendors, workshops, food and plenty of other activities. 

The Virginia Lake Festival is held every July and is ranked one of the top 20 events in the southeast by the Southeast Tourism Society. Intended for all ages, the festival features live music, hot air balloon rides, food, and fireworks over the lake. 

The Annual Lovettsville Oktoberfest has been a favorite of Loudoun County locals for over two decades. Oktoberfest really has something for everyone, including authentic German cuisine, local beer and wine, street performers, live music, Kinderfest with games and activities for kids, live music, an array of vendors, and the Wiener Dog races.

The Loudoun County Fair is held over a six-day period and has lots to offer, including rides, beauty pageants, various showcase events, a petting zoo, carnival food, shows, and an eclectic group of vendors.

These are just a few examples of the fun and unique activities frequently held for the residents of Loudoun County homes.

Outdoor Fun in Loudoun County 

Thanks to the ideal location of Loudoun County real estate, there are ample opportunities for fun in the sun. Hiking is an obvious choice, thanks to the numerous paths that wind through the woodlands and rolling hills and meander along the river. Local favorites include Bear’s Den Overlook on the Appalachian Trail and the more than 20 miles of marked trails that can be found in Banshee Reeks Nature Preserve. The park is situated on around 700 acres of land and is home to an array of wildlife, including birds, white-tailed deer, woodchucks, owls, hawks and woodpeckers. Of course, the Washington & Old Dominion Trail also runs through Loudoun County and offers great views of the idyllic farmland that stretches between Purcellville and Hamilton. 

Loudoun County is home to more than 30 parks spanning more than 1,000 acres in total. Each of the parks offers unique experiences and plenty of opportunities for adventure, including horseback riding and taking in extraordinary views while ziplining through the treetops. Brambleton Community Park is a popular destination, thanks to its well-kept, multi-sport playing fields, while Ashburn Park is widely considered to have the best children’s playgrounds in the area, alongside a shaded trail to explore and a creek to investigate. For roller hockey, Trailside Park is the place to go, while Olde Izaak Walton Park is perfect for anyone searching for a pond with a fishing pier and an off-leash dog park.

Find Your Home in Loudoun County

It’s impossible to deny that houses for sale in Loudoun County provide a lot of value, which may be why more people have moved here in recent years than anywhere else in Virginia. Schedule a visit today and find the perfect Loudoun County home for you!