Canterbury, New Hampshire
Merrimack County · Merrimack Valley

Canterbury

Where Shaker heritage and New Hampshire's pastoral beauty create timeless tranquility.

About Canterbury

Nestled in the heart of Merrimack County, Canterbury is a quintessential New Hampshire town where colonial history meets modern rural charm. Founded in 1741, this peaceful community of just over 2,300 residents is perhaps best known as the home of Canterbury Shaker Village, a National Historic Landmark that preserves the legacy of the Shakers who lived and worked here for over 200 years. The town's rolling hills, stone walls, and classic New England architecture create a pastoral landscape that feels worlds away from urban hustle. Canterbury offers the perfect blend of historical significance and small-town tranquility, with winding country roads that lead past working farms, pristine forests, and well-preserved 18th and 19th-century homes. The community takes pride in its agricultural heritage while embracing sustainable practices and conservation efforts. With easy access to Concord and the broader Merrimack Valley, Canterbury provides residents with the best of both worlds: rural serenity and urban convenience.

Schools & Education

Canterbury is part of the SAU 46 school district.

School District

Part of Merrimack Valley School District(SAU 46)

Students attend high school in Salisbury

Quick Facts

Population
2,352
County
Merrimack
Region
Merrimack Valley
School District
SAU 46

Local Businesses

Canterbury Alehouse

Food & Drink

Craft brewery and restaurant featuring locally brewed beers and pub fare. Community gathering place with live music and events.

Route 106

Canterbury Auto Repair

Other

Full-service automotive repair shop handling everything from routine maintenance to major repairs. Trusted by locals for honest service and fair pricing.

Route 106

Canterbury Conservation Commission

Other

Municipal organization focused on protecting Canterbury's natural resources. The commission manages conservation lands and promotes environmental stewardship throughout the community.

1 Municipal Dr

Canterbury Country Store

Shopping

General store offering groceries, hardware items, and local products. Community hub providing essential goods and friendly service.

Route 106

Canterbury Fire Department

Other

Volunteer fire department providing fire protection and emergency medical services. Community-supported organization serving residents and visitors.

Baptist Road

Canterbury Historical Society

Arts & Entertainment

Local organization preserving Canterbury's history through exhibits and programs. The society maintains historical collections and hosts educational events throughout the year.

Baptist Hill Rd

Canterbury Library

Education

Community library offering books, programs, and internet access. The library serves as an important community resource and gathering place for residents.

1 Municipal Dr

Canterbury Maple Farm

Other

Local maple syrup producer offering fresh syrup and farm products. The farm provides tours during sugaring season and sells products year-round.

Morrill Rd

Canterbury Post Office

Other

Full-service postal facility providing mail services, package shipping, and P.O. boxes. Central location serving the entire community.

Route 106

Canterbury Riding Stable

Outdoor Recreation

Horse boarding and riding instruction facility with indoor and outdoor arenas. Offers lessons for all skill levels and trail riding opportunities.

Woods Road

Canterbury Road Maintenance

Other

Town highway department responsible for road maintenance and snow removal. The department ensures safe travel on Canterbury's extensive network of rural roads.

Municipal Dr

Canterbury Shaker Village

Arts & Entertainment

Historic museum and cultural center showcasing Shaker life and traditions. Offers guided tours, educational programs, and special events year-round.

288 Shaker Road

Canterbury Town Hall

Other

Municipal building housing town offices and meeting spaces. Provides various town services including permits, tax collection, and voter registration.

1 Municipal Dr

Canterbury Veterinary Clinic

Health & Wellness

Full-service veterinary practice serving pets and livestock in the area. Provides routine care, emergency services, and specialized treatments.

Route 106

Canterbury Woods Country Club

Outdoor Recreation

18-hole golf course with pro shop and dining facilities. The course offers challenging play through scenic New Hampshire countryside.

15 West Rd

Canterbury Woods Maple

Other

Maple syrup producer offering tours during sugaring season and retail sales. Known for high-quality pure maple syrup and maple products.

Woods Road

Elkins Beach

Outdoor Recreation

Town beach on Shaker Lake offering swimming and picnicking facilities. A popular summer destination for families and visitors seeking lakeside recreation.

Elkins Beach Rd

Elkins Beach Snack Bar

Food & Drink

Seasonal concession stand serving ice cream, snacks, and light meals during beach season. Popular with families visiting the swimming area.

Elkins Beach Road

Elkins Country Store

Food & Drink

Local convenience store and deli serving sandwiches, coffee, and essential items. Popular stop for residents and visitors to the beach area.

Route 106

Four Corners Growers

Other

Organic farm stand and CSA offering fresh vegetables, herbs, and flowers. Committed to sustainable farming practices and community supported agriculture.

Baptist Road

Hackleboro Orchard

Other

Pick-your-own apple orchard with multiple varieties and seasonal activities. Features farm stand with fresh produce and baked goods.

Hackleboro Road

Kimball Farm

Other

Working dairy farm producing milk and other dairy products. Family-owned operation that has served the community for generations.

Baptist Road

Kimball Pond Campground

Outdoor Recreation

Seasonal campground offering camping and recreational facilities. The campground provides a peaceful setting for outdoor enthusiasts visiting the Canterbury area.

Kimball Pond Rd

Meadowsend Farm

Other

Working farm offering seasonal produce, farm tours, and agricultural education. The farm practices sustainable agriculture and provides fresh local food to the community.

Baptist Hill Rd

Riverbend Landscaping

Other

Professional landscaping company offering design, installation, and maintenance services. Specializes in native plantings and sustainable landscape practices.

Baptist Road

Shaker Lake Boat Launch

Outdoor Recreation

Public boat launch providing access to Shaker Lake for fishing and boating. The facility includes parking and basic amenities for lake recreation.

Shaker Lake Rd

Shaker Meadows Bed & Breakfast

Other

Historic bed and breakfast offering accommodations in a restored colonial home. The inn provides visitors with authentic New England hospitality and comfortable lodging.

Shaker Rd

Shaker Road School House

Education

Historic one-room schoolhouse now serving as educational facility and event space. The building offers glimpses into Canterbury's educational history and community heritage.

Shaker Rd

Shaker Road School of Music

Education

Private music instruction facility offering lessons in various instruments and voice. Serves students of all ages with qualified instructors.

Shaker Road

Shaker Table Restaurant

Food & Drink

Farm-to-table restaurant at Canterbury Shaker Village serving seasonal cuisine. Features locally sourced ingredients in a historic setting.

288 Shaker Road

Village Hair Salon

Health & Wellness

Full-service hair salon providing cuts, styling, and color services. Friendly atmosphere with experienced stylists serving the local community.

Route 106

Village Veterinary Clinic

Health & Wellness

Veterinary practice serving Canterbury and surrounding communities. Provides comprehensive animal healthcare including routine care and emergency services.

Route 106

Explore the Concord Area

See Concord for dining, activities, outdoor recreation, local businesses, and more.

View Concord Guide