Welcome to Guernsey County
This charming area offers both a relaxed atmosphere and a rich history
Located in the scenic Appalachian foothills, Guernsey County was established in 1810. The seat of the county is Cambridge. The region of Guernsey County has a rich history, and many of the area’s attractions and towns are named after English places to honor the original settlers’ homeland.
Guernsey County’s historical significance doesn’t end with the English families who settled the area. In July of 1863, a significant Civil War battle was fought in Guernsey County, called Morgan’s Raid. Local historians believe that this is the “most monumental thing to have ever happened in Guernsey County,” according to the county’s historical society.
Guernsey County offers more than just history — it is home to gorgeous Appalachian scenery and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure.
Communities in the county include Cambridge, Byesville, Senecaville, Quaker City, and more. Towns in Guernsey County exude all-American charm, with historic downtown districts and classic Main Streets.
What to Love
- A storied history and dedicated historical society
- Idyllic, small-town living with classic Main Streets and local culture
- Pastoral natural beauty
- Quiet and safe atmosphere
Local Lifestyle
Guernsey County is a rural gem, with plenty of family-oriented activities, outdoor adventures, and more. While life in Guernsey County is quiet, it’s never dull. The county is perfect for families or those searching for a slice of classic small-town life.
Dining, Shopping, & Entertainment
A fixture in Downtown Cambridge since 1931, Theo’s Restaurant serves a wide variety of home-cooked American cuisine. It offers a family-friendly atmosphere, a varied menu, and freshly baked pies for dessert.
Kennedy’s Bakery first opened its doors in 1925 and continues to serve fresh baked goods to the Cambridge community today. The bakery serves various pastries, cakes, sweets, and donuts and is still family-owned to this day.
Georgetown Tavern on the Hill is a family-owned restaurant that serves fresh, brick-oven pizza. Stop by on a weekend evening to enjoy their wine and beer list and hear some live music.
Nothing But Chocolate is a paradise for anyone looking to satisfy their sweet tooth. This shop creates handmade, signature chocolate confections and is famous for their Buckeyes, a candy made from peanut butter and chocolate.
Things to Do
For a taste of the outdoors, head to Seneca Lake Park. With over 4,000 acres of land and over 3,500 acres of water, there’s plenty to explore. It’s perfect for swimming, picnicking, or even taking a quick lakeside getaway with over 500 campsites and several vacation cabins.
The Dickens Victorian Village takes place annually in downtown Cambridge and transforms the quaint town into a holiday village. There are 92 scenes depicting vignettes from the Victorian area set up throughout Cambridge. There is also a Courthouse Light Show that decorates the historic Cambridge Courthouse with thousands of lights to create charming light displays set to holiday music.
Deerassic Park is perfect for families and outdoor lovers alike. It hosts educational programs and events to teach visitors about the great outdoors and create new generations of nature enthusiasts. It offers summer camps, educational events, youth hunts, and a Wild Wednesday series where wildlife speakers can come and educate visitors about a variety of topics.
Salt Fork State Park is a large public park with thousands of acres of scenic landscape. It’s home to a lake with two marinas and several ramps from which boaters can launch. There are hiking trails for every skill level, as well as a golf course and a historic home to visit. You can also stay overnight at one of the campsites, vacation cabins, or in the park’s very own lodge.
Schools
Guernsey County is served by the East Guernsey Local School District and the Cambridge City School District. It is also home to Zane State College in Cambridge, which offers certifications and associate degrees.
