Brierley Hill, Lexington, VA

In their newly released article “The 20 Best Small Towns to Visit in 2013,” Smithsonian Magazine named Lexington, Virginia as number 16 out of the 20 small towns. Lexington is well-known for hosting a variety of attractions—Washington and Lee University, Virginia Military Institute, Boxerwood Gardens, the Virginia Horse Center, and a great deal of Civil War history. All vacations and getaways need lodging, of course, and Lexington boasts of number of fantastic inns, one of which is Brierley Hill. Brierley Hill recently welcomed two new innkeepers, Dave and Karen Innocent, who took ownership on February 28, 2013. In spite of a snowstorm and power outages, the Innocents welcomed their first guests on March 9, solidifying their adventure as innkeepers. Dave and Karen have always had a heart for hospitality. Their Pennsylvania home was often the meeting place for their three sons’ friends, family get-togethers, church gatherings, and general socializing. Dave states, “It was not unusual to wake up to see fifteen or so people spread out sleeping in our house. We loved it!” With Dave’s dissatisfaction with his career in automobile sales and Karen’s heart for hospitality, the Innocents decided to pursue a life of innkeeping. Their middle son’s education at Liberty University first brought them to Lexington. “We drove into Lexington, and I was immediately drawn to the town,” Dave reflects. “It was a warm day, and people were walking around outside. When we returned home, I did a Google search for B&Bs near Lexington, and I saw Brierley Hill listed. I called the realtor, who was surprised that I had seen Brierley online since they had literally just posted the ‘for sale’ ad. I guess you could say it was fate!” Dave, Karen, and their two dogs—a golden retriever and a Bernese mountain dog—look forward to welcoming future guests and helping them explore the beautiful Lexington area. By Tara Stoll