
Gilford
Recreation Center of New Hampshire on Lake Winnipesaukee
About Gilford
Gilford has earned its nickname as the 'Recreation Center of New Hampshire' with good reason. The town sits on the southern shore of Lake Winnipesaukee and climbs up the northern slopes of the Belknap Mountain range, putting world-class water and mountain recreation within minutes of every neighborhood. Gunstock Mountain Resort, established in 1937, draws skiers in winter and zip-liners and mountain bikers in summer, while Ellacoya State Beach offers one of the best public swimming spots on the big lake. Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion hosts major concert acts all summer long, from country headliners to classic rock legends. The lake lifestyle runs deep here, with Sandy Island Family Camp providing seasonal camping right on Winnipesaukee's shores for families wanting extended stays on the water. Year-round residents enjoy hiking on Mount Major, boating on Winnipesaukee, and easy access to entertainment like Scene One Gilford Cinemas 8 for movie nights or Escape Hour House when you want to test your puzzle-solving skills with friends. Gilford separated from Gilmanton in 1812, named (with a misspelling) for the Battle of Guilford Courthouse. The town runs its own well-regarded school district with about 1,150 students across three schools, and residents appreciate the genuine Lakes Region lifestyle with a short drive to Laconia for dining and shopping when needed.
Why Gilford?
- Direct access to Lake Winnipesaukee beaches and boating
- Gunstock Mountain Resort for year-round skiing, zip-lining, and mountain biking
- Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion brings major concert events all summer
- Strong local school district and low property taxes at $11.85 per $1,000
Quick Facts
Weather in Gilford
Clear
Today
53 / 37
Fri
48 / 32
Sat
54 / 29
Map
Living in Gilford
What you need to know about making Gilford your home.
Major Employers
Schools & Education
Gilford runs its own independent school district (SAU 73) serving approximately 1,150 students across three schools.
Cost of Living
Moderate for the Lakes Region, with median home prices around $551K and one of the lowest property tax rates in Belknap County at $11.85 per $1,000.
Real Estate
$551,000 median home price
$11.85 per $1,000 property tax rate
No state income or sales tax in NH
View listings in GilfordCommute Times
School District
School district
Gilford School District(SAU 73)
Grades served: PreK-12
Parks & Public Spaces
Events in Gilford
Knotty Knitters
405 Pub and Grill - Henry LaLiberte
Tot Time Reading Circle
Jackbox Games
Front Four Cellars - Wolfeboro - Garrett Smith
Foster's Tavern - Mark Dionne
Explore Gilford
BankNH Pavilion
Gunstock Mountain Resort

Patrick's

Ellacoya Barn & Grille
Papa Gino's
Walmart Supercenter
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