Hancock
Where historic charm meets Monadnock Region beauty in New Hampshire's most picturesque village.
Part of the Peterborough area
Visit Peterborough guideAbout Hancock
Nestled in the shadow of Mount Monadnock in southwestern New Hampshire, Hancock is a quintessential New England village that feels like stepping back in time. This charming town of fewer than 1,800 residents boasts a pristine village green surrounded by historic white clapboard buildings, including the iconic Hancock Inn, which has been welcoming guests since 1789. The town's rural character is defined by rolling hills, stone walls, working farms, and forests that burst into brilliant color each autumn. Hancock's location in the Monadnock Region places it at the heart of some of New Hampshire's most scenic countryside, with easy access to hiking trails, pristine lakes, and cultural attractions. The community takes pride in preserving its agricultural heritage while embracing a vibrant arts scene, with local galleries, craft shops, and the renowned Hancock Inn drawing visitors from across New England. Despite its small size, Hancock offers residents and visitors a rich quality of life with excellent schools, community events, and that rare sense of place that makes small-town New Hampshire so special.
Schools & Education
Hancock is part of the SAU 1 school district.
School District
Part of Contoocook Valley School District(SAU 1)
Students attend high school in Peterborough
Quick Facts
Local Businesses
Antiques at Hancock
Local antique shop featuring New England collectibles and vintage items. Offers furniture, folk art, and unique treasures from estate sales and collections.
Brookstone Farm
Working farm offering seasonal produce and agricultural products. Provides fresh vegetables, herbs, and farm-fresh eggs to local customers.
Country Crafts Studio
Local artisan studio creating handmade crafts and folk art. Offers pottery, woodworking, and traditional New England crafts for sale.
Hancock Auto Service
Local automotive repair shop serving the community's vehicle needs. Provides general repairs, inspections, and maintenance for cars and light trucks.
Hancock Cemetery Association
Maintains historic cemeteries and burial grounds throughout the town. Preserves local history and provides cemetery services for families.
Hancock Fire Department
Volunteer fire department providing emergency services to the community. Offers fire protection, emergency medical response, and community safety programs.
Hancock Handyman Services
Local contractor providing home repair and maintenance services. Specializes in historic home restoration, carpentry, and general handyman work.
Hancock Inn
Historic inn and restaurant serving fine dining since 1789. Features period rooms, dining, and special events in New Hampshire's oldest continuously operating inn.
Hancock Library
Small community library offering books, programs, and local history resources. Provides reading programs, community meeting space, and internet access for residents.
Hancock Post Office
Full-service post office serving the local community. Provides mail services, package shipping, and postal products for residents and businesses.
Hancock Town Hall
Municipal offices providing town services and local government functions. Houses town clerk, tax collector, and selectmen's offices for resident services.
Hancock Trail Guides
Local guide service offering hiking tours and outdoor education. Provides guided hikes on Mount Monadnock and nature walks throughout the region.
Hancock Village Store
General store providing basic groceries and convenience items. Serves as a community gathering place with local news, bulletin board, and friendly service.
Harris Center for Conservation Education
Environmental education center offering nature programs, trails, and conservation initiatives. Provides educational workshops, guided walks, and environmental research opportunities.
Local Maple Syrup Producer
Small-scale maple syrup operation producing pure New Hampshire maple syrup. Offers fresh syrup, maple candy, and seasonal sugaring demonstrations.
MacLellan's Market
Community market and deli serving fresh sandwiches and local products. Stocks groceries, local maple syrup, honey, and craft items for residents and visitors.
Monadnock Paper Mills
Specialty paper manufacturer located in nearby Bennington. Produces high-quality papers for artists, printmakers, and specialty applications.
Village Hair Salon
Small salon providing hair care and styling services to local residents. Offers cuts, color, and styling in a friendly, personal atmosphere.
Explore the Peterborough Area
See Peterborough for dining, activities, outdoor recreation, local businesses, and more.
View Peterborough Guide
