Richmond has long been considered the stately grande dame of the southern US and it has also been the state capital of Virginia since 1780. Although the city is historically important, it has also become known as a modern and lively urban centre. A range of attractions are in easy reach of the Richmond area and visitors can enjoy a day by the sea, a drive through the mountains, a tour of Civil War battlefields and historic colonial Williamsburg, or even a drive into nearby Washington DC to visit the US capital.

The role Richmond has played in American History is enormous, particularly as the capital of the Confederacy during the Civil War. Today, visitors to the area can explore the battlefields and monuments, cemeteries and museums of that time. Richmond has not been relegated to the past however and it boasts an active nightlife, many restaurants, bars, outdoor concerts and cultural events. The city’s layout encourages relaxing and interesting tours on foot, such as a stroll on the attractive Canal Walk, by the restored Haxall and Kanawha Canals. Boat trips are another popular way to tour the historic area, with some boat trips offering historical narration.

Visually, the city is an interesting combination of modern high-rise office complexes, hospitals and universities where charming cobblestone streets lined with historic buildings are flanked by warehouses from the 19^th century. In the midst of all this is a 300-year old farmers' market, which still fills the air with the fragrance of fresh flowers and the pleasing scent of fresh fruits and vegetables.

The city is home to a number of excellent accommodation options. If you are looking to stay somewhere luxurious and stylish, you will not be lacking in choice. This is equally true if you are looking for mid-range and family establishments.

Richmond was founded by Captain Christopher Newport and Captain John Smith in 1607. It was named Richmond by William Byrd II because the bend in the James River where the city is located is similar to that of the Thames in Richmond, England. Native Americans lived in the area for thousands of years before the English arrived, but the beginning of Richmond’s written history began in 1607 at the site where the 14^th Street Bridge stands today. This spot, in the south of the city is now a recreational area along the James River. Tobacco, one of the state’s most lucrative crops, was first scientifically cultivated here in 1612, while Mount Malady, America’s first hospital, was established at the site of what is now the Henricus Historical Park.

The 18^th century was a significant period of growth for the Richmond region. By 1709, coal was being commercially mined in Midlothian. In 1741, St John's Church was built: this church was to become the site of Patrick Henry's famous ‘Give me liberty or give me death’ speech. In 1780, Virginia’s capital was moved from Williamsburg to Richmond and in 1781, the Capitol was burned by the British, under the command of Benedict Arnold.

Richmond became even more historically significant during the 19^th century, when Civil War broke out and the city became the capital of the Confederacy. During this century, the population grew from less than 200 residents to more than 60,000. The early part of the century witnessed the charter of the city's first bank, the Bank of Virginia, and the establishment of the first public library.

Richmond experiences four distinct seasons, although overall it has a mild subtropical climate. Spring weather begins in April, characterised by mild days and cool nights; by late May, the temperature has warmed up considerably. In the summer it can be unpleasantly hot, with temperatures rising above 30°C, accompanied by high humidity, for which Richmond is notorious. Hurricanes are something of a worry throughout the summer months and it is important to bear this in minds when travelling during this time.

Autumn brings days that continue to stay warm until October. By this time, the threat of hurricanes has mostly passed and the season is marked by mild days and cooler nights. Winter is also usually mild here, but not all winters are the same. It is possible for the city to experience snowfall in winter, with January being the most likely month for this to happen. The best times to visit Richmond are April and May, in the spring, and September and October, in the fall.