Rugby Travel Guide

Find everything you need to know about Rugby, Tennessee, including top attractions, activities, food, and transportation options in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Rugby

Rugby is a historic village located in the Cumberland Plateau region of Eastern Tennessee. Established in the 1880s by British author and social reformer Thomas Hughes, the village was intended to serve as a utopian community for younger sons of English gentry. Today, Rugby is a popular tourist destination for history buffs, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a peaceful getaway in the mountains.

List of Places to Visit in Rugby

Rugby has a rich history and natural beauty, making it a great destination for any type of traveler. Here are some of the top places to visit in Rugby:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Thomas Hughes Free Public Library and Rugby Visitor Centre: This historic building serves both as a public library and a visitor center. Here, you can learn about the history of Rugby and browse books and souvenirs.
  • Uffington House: This historic mansion was once home to British writer and utopian socialist, Thomas Hughes.
  • Christ Church Episcopal: Built in 1887, Christ Church is one of the oldest surviving buildings in Rugby. It’s also the smallest Episcopal church in the United States.
  • Rugby Printing Works: This working museum offers visitors a chance to experience traditional letterpress printing and learn about the history of printing.

Natural Attractions of Rugby: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area: This park encompasses more than 125,000 acres of rugged natural beauty, including the Big South Fork of the Cumberland River and its tributaries.
  • Rugby State Natural Area: Located adjacent to the village, this 150-acre natural area offers hiking trails and scenic views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Tennessee Mountain Laurel Trail: This 5.5-mile trail runs through the heart of Rugby and offers beautiful views of the village and surrounding countryside.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Rugby

Rugby is a great destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts, with a variety of trails and routes to choose from. Here are some of the top options:

  • Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area: With more than 180 miles of trails, Big South Fork offers something for hikers and bikers of all skill levels.
  • John Muir Trail: This 20-mile trail runs through the heart of Rugby and offers beautiful views of the village and surrounding countryside.
  • O&W Rail Trail: This 14.5-mile trail follows the route of the former Oneida and Western Railroad and offers a scenic journey through the mountains.

Best Things to Do in Rugby: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re looking for a guided tour or a self-guided adventure, Rugby has plenty of activities to choose from. Here are some of the top things to do in Rugby:

  • Ghost Tour: Take a guided tour of the village and learn about its haunted history.
  • Braehead Manor Tour: Take a tour of this historic home, built in 1829 and restored in the 1970s.
  • Victorian Christmas Festival: Held in early December, this festival celebrates the holiday season with carriage rides, caroling, and other festive activities.

Week-Long Itinerary for Rugby

For a week-long trip to Rugby, consider the following itinerary:

  • Day 1: Arrive in Rugby and explore the village on foot. Visit the Thomas Hughes Free Public Library and Rugby Visitor Centre, Uffington House, and Christ Church Episcopal.
  • Day 2: Take a guided tour of Rugby or explore the surrounding area on your own. Consider hiking the Tennessee Mountain Laurel Trail or visiting the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area.
  • Day 3: Take a tour of Braehead Manor or visit the Rugby Printing Works museum.
  • Day 4: Explore the surrounding area on a scenic drive. Visit nearby state parks or take a drive to nearby towns to immerse in the local culture
  • Day 5: Take a day trip to nearby Knoxville to experience the urban vibe of the town
  • Day 6: Participate in outdoor activities like hiking or take a natural tour of the Cumberland Mountains
  • Day 7: Depart from Rugby and head back home.

Food and Drink Scene of Rugby

Rugby may be small, but it has a great dining scene that focuses on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Southern Fried Chicken: A southern classic, this fried chicken is a must-try when visiting Rugby. Try it at the Harrow Road Cafe or the Misty Mountain Cafe.
  • Blackberry Cobbler: This classic Tennessee dessert is a must-try when in Rugby. Try it at the Serenity Tea Room.
  • Tomato Pie: A local specialty, this savory pie features fresh tomatoes and herbs. Try it at the Harrow Road Cafe.

Local Beverages

  • Tennessee Whiskey: Tennessee has a rich history in whiskey production. Try some of the locally distilled whiskey at the Big South Fork Distillery.
  • Tennessee Beer: The craft beer scene is growing rapidly in Tennessee. Try some of the locally brewed beer at the Calfkiller Brewing Company or the Depot Street Brewing Company.

Where to Stay in Rugby: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Rugby may be small, but it has some great lodging options for visitors. Here are some of the top places to stay in Rugby:

  • The Thomas Hughes Guest House: This guesthouse is located in the heart of Rugby and offers comfortable accommodations in a historic setting.
  • Laurel Fork Rustic Retreat: This cozy cabin is located just outside of Rugby and offers a secluded, rustic getaway.
  • Big South Fork Lodge and Horse Camp: This lodge and horse camp offers a variety of accommodations, from camping sites to cabins and deluxe lodges.

What to Buy in Rugby: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When visiting Rugby, be sure to stock up on some local souvenirs and products. Here are some of the top options:

  • Rugby Jerseys: A perfect souvenir to show pride in the town and village
  • Handmade Crafts: From knitting to wooden figurine crafted by the local artisans browse the shops around landmark buildings to find the right souvenir.
  • Tennessee Whiskey: Bring back a bottle of locally distilled Tennessee whiskey as a unique and memorable souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Rugby

Rugby has a rich history and culture, and locals take great pride in preserving and sharing it with visitors. Here are some of the local customs and traditions to keep in mind when visiting Rugby:

  • Respect for the Outdoors: Rugby is located in a beautiful natural setting, and locals take great pride in preserving it. Be sure to obey all posted signs and respect the natural environment.
  • Friendliness: Rugby locals are known for their friendliness and hospitality. Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with a local and ask for recommendations or information.
  • Traditional Food: Rugby has a rich culinary history, and locals take great pride in preserving traditional dishes and cooking techniques.

Best Time to Visit Rugby

Rugby is beautiful all year round, but the best time to visit depends on your interests. For outdoor enthusiasts, spring and fall are the best times to visit, as temperatures are mild and the colors of the changing leaves are stunning. For history buffs, winter is a great time to visit, as the village is transformed into a winter wonderland and hosts a variety of holiday events. Summer is a great time to visit for families and those looking to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

Do’s and Don’ts of Rugby

When visiting Rugby, keep these do’s and don’ts in mind:

Do:

  • Do visit the Thomas Hughes Free Public Library and Rugby Visitor Centre and learn about the history of the village.
  • Do take a guided tour of Rugby or explore the surrounding area on your own.
  • Do try some of the local cuisine, like Southern Fried Chicken and Blackberry Cobbler.

Don’t:

  • Don’t trespass on private property.
  • Don’t litter or disturb the natural environment.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask locals for recommendations, but be respectful of their time and privacy.

Safety and Health

Rugby is a safe destination, but visitors should take common sense precautions to remain safe and healthy.

Safety in Rugby

  • Watch out for wildlife on hiking trails.
  • Be cautious of steep drops and cliffs in the Big South Fork National River.
  • Practice basic safety precautions like locking your car and safeguarding valuables.

Health in Rugby

  • Be aware of the risks associated with ticks, which are common in wooded areas.
  • Be prepared for sudden changes in weather, which can occur in the Cumberland Plateau region.
  • The nearest medical facilities are in Huntsville, so be prepared for any health emergencies.

Getting to Rugby: Transportation Options and Logistics

Rugby is located in a rural area of Eastern Tennessee, but it’s still easily accessible by car and other modes of transportation.

Airports Near Rugby

  • Knoxville McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS)
  • Nashville International Airport (BNA)

Bus Stations Near Rugby

  • Knoxville Greyhound Station
  • Nashville Greyhound Station

Other Options

  • Private Car: Rugby is accessible by car, and it’s a great way to explore the surrounding area.
  • Train: The nearest Amtrak station is in Albany, KY, about 60 miles from Rugby.

How to Get Around in Rugby

The best way to get around Rugby and the surrounding area is by car. There are also some hiking and biking trails in and around the village.

Where to Go Next from Rugby: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Rugby is located in a beautiful area of Eastern Tennessee, and there are several nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Only a short drive from Rugby, this park is home to over 800 miles of hiking trails and some of the most iconic landscapes in the country.
  • Franklin, TN: This historic town is home to a variety of cultural attractions, including the Lotz House Museum and the Gentry’s Farm.
  • Dollywood: Located in nearby Pigeon Forge, this theme park is the perfect destination for families and roller coaster enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Rugby, Tennessee, may be small, but it’s a destination with plenty of history, natural beauty, and local charm. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or just a peaceful getaway in the mountains, Rugby is a destination that won’t disappoint. With this comprehensive guide, you have all the information you need to plan your own adventure in Rugby.