New Hampshire

All our New Hampshire collections:

• Best hotels in New England

New Hampshire may be a small state but it's tough, rugged and, above all, bewitchingly scenic. From jagged mountains to forest-fringed lakes, lush valleys to lovely beaches, this is a place that cries out to be explored and enjoyed in the big outdoors. Of course there’s also an urban scene, such as colonial Portsmouth, for a bit of sophistication. Our guide to the best places to stay in New Hampshire ensures you can find somewhere to stay to enjoy whatever activity takes your fancy.

At the heart of the state is the Lakes Region where Lake Winnipesaukee, dotted with islands, is a popular place for canoeing and fishing. Or you can take it more leisurely with a cruise.

Holderness straddles the Squami lakes at the base of the White Mountains and offers year round fun from sailing, fishing and hiking to skiing and cross-country skiing in winter months.

In the north, explore White Mountain National Forest, great for hiking and berry-picking in summer, fabulous autumn colours in the fall, and skiing and snowshoeing in winter. Here you can climb Mt. Washington, the region’s highest peak. If you’re short on time (or energy) take the steam-powered, cog railway to its summit.

Stalk moose in the Great North Woods or be amazed by the giant boulders in Pawtuckaway State Park, one of New Hampshire’s numerous state parks.

For a bit of culture, head to pristine colonial settlements like Portsmouth or Canterbury Shaker village, a living-history museum just north of the capital, Concord, whilst a tour of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Zimmerman House is worth the trip.

Prefer to take it easier? Head to Hampton Beach or go on the Ice Cream Trail around 47 dairy farms. Those with a sweet tooth should come in March; the best time to visit the sugarhouses where the famous maple syrup is made. And don’t forget to sample a fried-clam platter or a lobster roll.

Choose what you’d like to do and then use our selection of the best places to stay in New Hampshire to plan your trip.

The best New Hampshire hotels with spas

• Modelled after ocean liners the majestic,19th century Wentworth by the Sea is a classic grand coastal hotel with fabulous sea views, pool and spa.
• A country manor-house, set in 13 beatuiful acres with views of lake and the White Mountains, The Manor on Golden Pond offers stately bedrooms - some with fires or jacuzzis - a smart restaurant, tennis, croquet, cooking lessons as well as a spa.

The best New Hampshire hotels for foodies

• In the heart of the White Mountain National Forest, with hiking, fishing and skiing on tap, the charmingly rustic Notchland Inn offers superb five-course dinners to look forward to after a day’s exertions.
• Complimentary afternoon tea is offered at the Adair Country Inn, whose nine rooms are charmingly decorated in country-house style. Evening meals showcase the best of New England cuisine.

The best New Hampshire hotels in towns

• In the small coastal town of Durham, Three Chimneys Inn offers elegant rooms, many with four-poster beds and fireplaces, and a more rustic restaurant serving honest, hearty cooking.
• In the middle of lively Keene, Fairfield Inn & Suites is a historic building - a former department store - converted into a boutique hotel with contemporary style rooms, some with exposed brick walls. Although there’s a cocktail bar, there’s no restaurant but it’s walking distance to a wide choice of eateries.
• The historic Hanover Inn - a late 18th century inn - is at the heart of Dartmouth College campus and offers jaunty, spacious rooms with smart creamy colours and clubby, leather furnishings. There’s also a gym and a restaurant that focuses on local sourcing.

For more ideas, browse our list of the best places to stay in New Hampshire or contact one of our friendly gurus for advice.