New England has no shortage of stunningly beautiful summer resort towns. Newport, Rhode Island is famous for its scenic cliffs and fresh seafood. Provincetown on Cape Cod in Massachusetts is renowned as America’s oldest continuous arts community with award-winning beaches. Heading north into New Hampshire, however, brings us to a town that has changed very little over its 250-plus years of history. Situated between the equally iconic White Mountains and Lakes Region, the village of Tamworth is an artsy summer retreat with some of the coziest New England vibes you’ll find anywhere.
Founded in 1766, Tamworth began its history comfortably enough as a small community of farmers. The 19th century would bring industry to Tamworth, but it was the town’s idyllic country setting among the woods and hills that earned it a reputation as a summer retreat for the likes of writers Henry James and E.E. Cummings, as well as former U.S. President Grover Cleveland. The town retains its historic vibes, and continues to honor its artisan history with some truly unique New Hampshire-made offerings.
A little over an hour’s drive from New Hampshire cities like Concord and Manchester, and (depending on traffic) just over two hours from Boston Logan International Airport, Tamworth can be accessed with ease. With its blend of lakes and mountains, it’s no secret why Tamworth is so sought after as a summer destination.
Experience Tamworth’s cozy Main Street
There is an old-time feeling visitors experience when visiting Tamworth. The village is filled with historic homes surrounded by farm fields, stone walls, streams, lakes, woods, and mountains. However, it’s Main Street that provides a condensed itinerary of Tamworth “musts” that no visit to this charming New Hampshire village would be complete without.
The Remick Country Doctor Museum & Farm provides the most authentic slice of historic life in Tamworth you are going to find. Operated under a trust set up by lifelong Tamworth resident and country doctor Edwin “Doc” Remick, the farm and museum preserve the legacy of the country doctor, as well as show visitors what life was like in Tamworth just a few short decades ago. Also, be on the lookout for resident cats.
More modern additions to Tamworth include Mari’s Treasures, a vintage consignment shop, and the Art Works, a gallery and creative space for artists. The Barnstormers theater, founded by one of President Cleveland’s sons, has been performing summer stock plays for over 90 years right out of a historic building on Main Street. And, if you’re interested in craft spirits, Tamworth Distillery has been making award-winning farm-to-bottle gin, rum, and whiskey since 2015. Using a 250-gallon copper still and ingredients sourced from mostly local farms, Tamworth Distillery creates a flavor and experience that could only have come from Tamworth.
Explore Tamworth’s woods and famous mountain
