Buckhall

Named at the tail end of the Civil War for its high population of bucks, Buckhall provides a taste of small-town life close to the nation’s capital. Once a serene space for wandering wildlife, the commuter-friendly neighborhood now offers modern amenities only minutes from its considerably sized lots. With trees lining each property’s edge and well-maintained lawns bordering the roads with a park-like vibrance, it’s hard to believe Washington is within driving distance.

Located less than 3 miles from Old Town Manassas, the neighborhood consists of single-family homes that range from 1,300 square feet to over 5,000 square feet. Home styles include Colonial Revival, Georgian Revival, farmhouse, and rambler. Many homes feature private lots that extend beyond an acre, some of which are wooded or located along the Occoquan River. As Shalawn Hildreth of eXp explains, “It has the feel of Fairfax but has a little bit of a country feel as well.” Three-bedroom homes range from $465,000 to $675,000, while larger homes cost between $510,000 and $900,000, with cost dependent on square footage and property size. Homes on multi-acre lots or with pools in the backyard often exceed the $600,000 price point.

Located in the heart of Prince William County, students attend the 17th best district in Virginia, beginning with Signal Hill Elementary School. Less than 2 miles from home, the school incorporates world language instruction beginning in first grade. From here, students transition to Parkside Middle before attending Osbourn Park High, an A-rated school according to Niche. Known for its extensive after-school activity options like Robotics Club and its advanced course offerings, Osbourn Park focuses on college readiness and career preparation for students.

With the river serving as a natural border along the east and south, opportunities for hiking close to home are aplenty. Start along one of the surrounding Bull Run Occoquan Trailheads and hike up to 18 miles from Bull Run Regional Park to Fountainhead Regional Park. The longest natural surface trail in northern Virginia, Bull Run Occoquan preserves much of the area’s history from both the Revolutionary and Civil War eras. Notice signs throughout your woodland adventure, each noting how the trail connects to America’s divisive past. To step away from the rural and experience the area’s small-town charm, wander through the historic downtown Manassas area. Enjoy a night at the ballet at the Manassas Ballet Theatre or listen to the opera at Hylton Performing Arts Center.

To conclude an evening of fun, pass through Liberia Avenue’s retail corridor and select from an array of restaurants for dinner. Dine at the Bella Vita Italian Restaurant and enjoy the Tortellini Milano or pick up a burrito from Chipotle. If you’re in the mood to cook, find grocery stores like Lidl and Harris Teeter, alongside other national retailers providing household needs like Petco, CVS and Dollar Tree. Shopping in Manassas extends beyond the essentials. In your free time, drive less than 6 miles to the Manassas Mall on Sudley Road. For clothes and shoes, visit Macy’s, Journeys, American Eagle, and Foot Locker or for home décor and furniture, wander through At Home and USA Furniture Outlet.

When it’s time to head to work, make your way to the Manassas Station, less than 3 miles away. The train allows convenient travel to Tysons, Alexandria, and Washington. If looking to drive into the city instead, ride along Centreville Road and Interstate 66 and reach the city in less than 35 miles. “I think Manassas is a great gateway if you want wine country or the mountains or to hang out in the city. You can go to the left or go to the right; you have your choice either way,” Hildreth says. If you’re looking for a quiet landscape close to all you need, you’ll find it in Buckhall.