The Brickhouse Run

Imagine a corner of good old England, miraculously transported to the historic center of Petersburg. This is exactly the atmosphere The Brickhouse Run offers its guests—an authentic pub housed in early 19th-century buildings in the USA. It is a place where British hospitality traditions meet the local flavor of Virginia, creating a unique space for relaxation and socializing.

The pub is divided into two zones that recreate the structure of classic English coaching inns. The Public Bar, with its stone floors and exposed ceiling beams, invites casual conversation at the counter, while the cozy Dining Room with soft carpeting is ideal for a quiet dinner. There are intentionally no televisions here, so that nothing distracts visitors from the establishment's main value—live conversation.

The pub's interior deserves special attention: the massive mahogany bar with brass details and unique molding emphasize the historical significance of the building. The Brickhouse Run is not just a bar, but a true landmark that allows you to feel the connection of times in the very heart of Cockade Alley.

For those planning to spend an evening in the cozy atmosphere of this British pub, the basic contact information for getting in touch and finding the location is provided below.

The main activity at The Brickhouse Run is the art of unhurried relaxation. Take a seat at the magnificent mahogany bar, order a glass of ale or local craft beer, and immerse yourself in an atmosphere of friendly conversation. The bar's design is specifically intended for guests to sit or stand facing each other, making it the perfect place to make new acquaintances with the locals.

Be sure to notice the architectural details: inside, you can see traces of ancient arches and 19th-century brickwork that serve as a reminder of the building's past as part of an old kitchen. Foodies should try the British cuisine, which is prepared here with American tastes in mind, focusing on home-style comfort and fresh ingredients.

Since there are no noisy screens in the establishment, you can fully focus on the taste of your drinks and the aesthetics of your surroundings. This is a great place to soak up the spirit of Petersburg while watching the bartenders at work or simply enjoying a quiet evening in one of the city's most characteristic buildings, originally constructed back in 1816.

Getting to The Brickhouse Run is easy, as it is located in the very heart of the historic city center at 407-409 Cockade Alley. If you are traveling by car from Richmond, the drive on I-95 South takes about 20–30 minutes—simply take the exit toward the downtown area. You can park your car directly on Cockade Alley or the adjacent Bollingbrook Street.

For those who prefer public transport, local bus stops serving the center are within walking distance. If you are arriving in the city by train, the Petersburg Amtrak station is just one kilometer from the pub, allowing you to reach it on foot in about 10–15 minutes while enjoying the area's historic architecture.

The Cockade Alley area is pedestrian-friendly and considered safe and very picturesque. Taxis or popular rideshare services from anywhere in the city will drop you at the door in minutes. A stroll along this historic alley is a perfect start to your evening.

The history of the buildings that house The Brickhouse Run today dates back to the early 19th century. Originally, buildings No. 407 and No. 409 served as outbuildings (dependencies) for the wealthy home of Nathaniel Friend. The space of the current Public Bar was used as a kitchen from 1815 to 1858, and its floor level was once a meter lower than today to provide access to the main house's basement.

For nearly two centuries, these walls have seen a succession of many owners and trades. Over the years, they have housed a barbershop, a cobbler's workshop, a butcher shop, a lumber warehouse, and even a billiard room. After a long period of neglect in the late 20th century, the buildings were stabilized, and in 1997, Ella and Steve Dickinson began a massive renovation, preserving the unique brickwork and massive wooden beams.

Particular attention was paid to detail when creating the pub: the mahogany bar was crafted by master Mark Pehanic based on authentic British taverns, and the molding for it was copied from an old door of one of the city's historic houses. Opening in 2000, The Brickhouse Run became more than just a drinking establishment—it became a living historical monument where the past harmoniously blends with a welcoming present.

To fully enjoy the atmosphere of this establishment, most visitors need between 1.5 to 2.5 hours. This is enough time to leisurely explore the historical interiors, sample local dishes, and feel the spirit of a real British pub.

If you have stopped in just for a glass of craft beer, 45 minutes might suffice, but we recommend staying longer. The absence of televisions and the cozy setting encourage long conversations, making The Brickhouse Run an ideal place to end a busy day of sightseeing.

The Brickhouse Run pub is open primarily in the evening, making it an excellent choice for dinner or a nightcap. Please check the operating hours before your visit:

• Tuesday – Thursday: 17:00 – 21:00
• Friday – Saturday: 17:00 – 22:00
• Monday and Sunday: Closed

After visiting the pub, it is worth taking some time to walk around the neighborhood, as Petersburg is famous for its rich architectural and historical heritage. Exploring the old streets located within a few minutes' walk will help you feel the atmosphere of old Virginia more deeply and enrich your travel experience.