
DISCOVER OLD EDWARDS INN
GET TO KNOW THE STORIED PATH

Rooted in the timeless beauty of Highlands, NC, Old Edwards Inn and Spa has welcomed guests since 1878. Born from Southern hospitality, nurtured through generations of warmth and renewal, and refined into a luxurious retreat by multiple dedicated families, the Old Edwards story continues to unfold, inviting you to be part of its legacy.
PROPERTY HIGHLIGHTS






EARLY BEGINNINGS
John Norton builds Central House, Highlands' earliest boarding house. David “Uncle Dave” Norton and his wife Martha “Aunt Mat” Norton manage the inn for nearly two decades, becoming widely known for their warmth and hospitality.
THE EDWARDS FAMILY
J. Grover “Diamond Joe” Edwards and wife Minnie Zoellner Edwards purchase Central House, renaming and eventually expanding it into Hotel Edwards in 1935. Minnie becomes known for her disciplined management, delicious home-cooked meals, and hospitality. The property is leased after Minnie’s health begins to decline and eventually closes in the mid-1960s.
RESTORATION AND RENEWAL
Rip and Pat Benton purchase and restore both Central House and Hotel Edwards, revitalizing the buildings and reestablishing them as respected lodging destinations.
EXPANSION BY ART AND ANGELA WILLIAMS
Art and Angela Williams purchase Old Edwards, investing over $150 million to elevate the property with world-class amenities. They introduce The Spa, The Farm event venue, The Lodge, and Old Edwards Club golf course, solidifying its reputation as a luxurious wellness destination.
A NEW CHAPTER
James and Jessica Whitley acquire Old Edwards Hospitality Group, continuing to enhance the inn’s legacy with a vision inspired by their successful hospitality and design projects, ensuring the continued prominence of Old Edwards Inn and Spa in Highlands and beyond.
THE POTTS ERA
Uncle Billy Potts and wife Martha “Mattie” Ammons run Central House, providing rustic hospitality with minimal amenities. The property operates without electricity or plumbing, offering a simple but welcoming experience.