Gilford, New Hampshire
Belknap County · Lakes Region

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

Population
7,726
County
Belknap
Region
Lakes Region
School District
SAU 73

Weather in Gilford

45°F

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

Gunstock Mountain ResortBank of New Hampshire PavilionLakes Region General HospitalGilford School DistrictLakes Region YMCAAdvanced Orthopedics

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 Gilford

Commute Times

90 min
Boston
30 min
Concord
10 min
Laconia
45 min
Manchester

School District

School district

Gilford School District(SAU 73)

Grades served: PreK-12

Website
Gilford Elementary School
K-4Elementary
Gilford Middle School
5-8Middle School
Gilford High SchoolGolden Eagles
9-12High School

Parks & Public Spaces

Ellacoya State ParkState Park

Hidden Gems in Gilford

Beyond the well-known attractions, Gilford has spots that locals love and visitors rarely find.

Tannery Hill Covered Bridge

year-round

A charming 49-foot covered footbridge built in 1995 by the Gilford Rotary Club, spanning Gunstock Brook in a deep gorge. The lattice truss construction creates beautiful filtered light patterns inside, and you can hear the rushing water below. The bridge connects Gilford Village to the town offices and sits in a scenic grove with picnic tables and a peculiar evergreen tree covered in massive burls.

Benjamin Rowe House

year-round

A Greek Revival farmhouse built around 1838 by farmer Benjamin Rowe using bricks he made from clay found on his property. Now on the National Register of Historic Places, this museum building operated by the Thompson-Ames Historical Society showcases authentic period furnishings and tells the story of a family that shaped Gilford for nearly a century. The house sits on an island surrounded by modern school pavement, creating an intriguing juxtaposition of past and present.

The Village at Paugus Bay

year-round

A hidden indoor plaza of local artisans, boutiques, and creative businesses housed in a former commercial building. This community-minded space features everything from dog grooming to photography studios, art galleries, floral design, and thrift shops. The owner personally delivers cookies to businesses during community events, creating a warm neighborhood feel that locals describe as a much-needed creative hub.

Gilford Village Store

year-round

Operating since 1836, this family-owned market and deli serves as Gilford's authentic community gathering spot. Famous among locals for their seven signature hot-pressed sandwiches including the 'Mo-fletta,' 'Villager,' and 'Belknap,' plus fresh-baked English-inspired pastries and a cozy dining room with a fireplace. The store maintains its historical role as the village trading post while offering everything from craft coffee to local wines.

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