Meredith
Where lake life meets New England charm in the heart of New Hampshire's playground.
About Meredith
Nestled on the shores of pristine Lake Winnipesaukee, Meredith embodies the quintessential New Hampshire lakes region experience. This charming town seamlessly blends historic New England character with modern lakeside living, featuring a picturesque downtown that bustles with activity during summer months while maintaining its cozy, small-town atmosphere year-round. The town's rich mill history is still visible in its well-preserved 19th-century architecture, while the sparkling waters of the state's largest lake provide endless recreational opportunities. Meredith serves as a gateway to the lakes region, offering visitors and residents alike access to some of New Hampshire's most beautiful natural landscapes. From the gentle slopes of the surrounding hills to the crystal-clear waters that stretch to the horizon, the town provides a perfect base for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful retreat from urban life. The community takes pride in its local businesses, seasonal festivals, and strong sense of neighborly connection that makes newcomers feel immediately at home.
Why Meredith?
- Prime location on Lake Winnipesaukee with beautiful beaches and waterfront access
- Charming walkable downtown with unique shops, restaurants, and seasonal events
- Four-season outdoor recreation from boating and swimming to skiing and snowmobiling
- Strong sense of community with active local organizations and volunteer opportunities
- Central lakes region location providing easy access to mountains, cities, and attractions
Also covering
This page also covers smaller towns near Meredith:
Quick Facts
Real Estate
Property taxes fund local services and schools
Things To Do
Waukewan Golf Club
springThis scenic 18-hole course offers challenging play with stunning lake and mountain views. The club features a welcoming atmosphere perfect for golfers of all skill levels.
Mill Falls Marketplace
year-roundBrowse unique shops and boutiques in this charming lakeside complex. The marketplace combines shopping, dining, and beautiful lake views in one convenient location.
Meredith Sculpture Walk
year-roundStroll through downtown and discover rotating outdoor art installations by regional artists. This self-guided tour showcases creativity while exploring the town's historic streets.
Lake Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad
summerTake a nostalgic train ride along the lakeshore with breathtaking water and mountain views. The vintage coaches provide a unique perspective of the region's natural beauty.
Annalee Doll Museum
year-roundExplore the whimsical world of Annalee Thorndike's beloved collectible dolls. This local treasure showcases the artistry and creativity that put Meredith on the map for collectors worldwide.
Meredith Bay Beach
summerRelax on this sandy public beach with swimming areas and picnic facilities. The beach offers stunning lake views and is perfect for families looking to enjoy New Hampshire's lake culture.
Outdoor Recreation
Lake Winnipesaukee
year-roundPaddle the crystal-clear waters of New Hampshire's largest lake with numerous coves and islands to explore. The lake offers both peaceful morning paddles and challenging open-water adventures.
Hamlin Pond
year-roundThis quiet pond provides excellent fishing opportunities for bass, pickerel, and panfish. The peaceful setting makes it perfect for both experienced anglers and families introducing children to fishing.
Meredith Bay
summerThe protected bay offers safe swimming with gradually sloping sandy areas ideal for families. Crystal-clear water and beautiful mountain views make this a premier swimming destination.
Bear Island
summerAccessible only by boat, this island offers primitive camping with stunning lake views. Campers enjoy a true wilderness experience while remaining close to town amenities.
Red Hill Trail
year-roundThis moderate 3.2-mile round-trip hike rewards visitors with panoramic views of Lake Winnipesaukee and the surrounding mountains. The fire tower at the summit provides 360-degree vistas of the lakes region.
Cotton Valley Trail
year-roundThis converted railroad bed offers 12 miles of relatively flat terrain perfect for mountain biking and walking. The trail connects multiple towns and provides scenic views of wetlands and forests.
OHRV Trails - Belknap County
summerExtensive ATV trail network connects through state and private lands around Meredith. Riders can access hundreds of miles of maintained trails leading to scenic overlooks and remote ponds.
New Hampshire Snowmobile Trail System
winterWell-maintained trails connect Meredith to the statewide snowmobile network covering over 7,000 miles. Local trails offer access to mountain views, frozen lakes, and cozy warming huts.
Dining & Entertainment
Lakehouse Grille
Upscale lakefront dining featuring fresh seafood and American cuisine with panoramic lake views. The restaurant's deck provides the perfect setting for sunset dinners during summer months.
Mame's Restaurant
A beloved local institution serving hearty New England comfort food since 1969. Known for generous portions and friendly service, it's where locals gather for breakfast and lunch.
Hermit Woods Winery
Local winery and meadery crafting unique fruit wines and honey-based beverages using New Hampshire ingredients. The tasting room offers a cozy atmosphere with knowledgeable staff sharing the stories behind each bottle.
Giuseppe's Pizzeria
Family-owned Italian restaurant serving authentic pizza, pasta, and subs since 1974. This local favorite consistently delivers quality food with generous portions at reasonable prices.
The Boathouse Grille
Casual waterfront dining with a focus on fresh seafood and classic American fare. The outdoor deck offers beautiful lake views and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for families and couples alike.
Local Businesses
Annalee Gift Shop
Home of the famous Annalee dolls, offering collectibles and New Hampshire-made gifts.
Black's Paper Store
Traditional paper goods and gift shop offering stationery, cards, toys, and unique gifts. A longtime Meredith business known for personal service and quality merchandise.
Granite State Candy Shoppe
Old-fashioned candy store with homemade fudge, penny candy, and New Hampshire specialty treats.
Hart's Turkey Farm Restaurant
Family-owned restaurant famous for turkey dinners and traditional New England fare since 1954.
Hermit Woods Winery
Local winery producing small-batch wines from New Hampshire-grown grapes and other fruits. Offers tastings, tours, and special events in a scenic rural setting.
Innisfree Bookshop
Independent bookstore offering carefully curated selection of books, local authors, and literary events. The shop serves as a cultural hub for the community with regular readings and book clubs.
League of New Hampshire Craftsmen
Showcasing fine crafts and artwork by New Hampshire artisans in a historic mill building.
League of New Hampshire Craftsmen Gallery
Showcase gallery featuring handcrafted items by New Hampshire artisans including pottery, jewelry, textiles, and woodwork. The gallery represents the finest in local craftsmanship and artistic talent.
Meredith Auto Service
Family-owned auto repair shop providing honest service and expertise for all vehicle makes.
Meredith Bay Bed & Breakfast
Charming lakefront inn offering comfortable accommodations with beautiful water views.
Meredith Bay Colony Club
Private club offering dining, events, and recreational facilities for members and guests.
Meredith Children's Centre
Licensed childcare facility providing quality early childhood education and care programs.
Meredith Marina
Full-service marina providing boat storage, repairs, and rental services on Lake Winnipesaukee. The marina offers both seasonal and transient docking for boats of various sizes.
Meredith Veterinary Hospital
Full-service veterinary clinic providing comprehensive care for pets and farm animals.
Meredith Village Savings Bank
Community bank providing full banking services with a strong commitment to local development and community support. The bank has been serving the Lakes Region for over 150 years.
Mill Falls Marketplace
Historic mill complex featuring shops, restaurants, and accommodations in a beautifully restored setting. The marketplace offers unique shopping and dining experiences with scenic lake views.
Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center
Non-profit organization offering environmental education programs and maintaining historic farm buildings.
Profile Bank
Regional bank offering personal and business banking services with local decision-making.
Salon Cristal
Full-service hair salon offering cuts, color, and styling in a welcoming atmosphere.
Sawyer's Dairy Bar
Local favorite for ice cream, fried clams, and casual dining with outdoor seating.
Shibley's at the Pier
Lakeside shop featuring boating supplies, casual clothing, and lake lifestyle accessories.
The Old Print Barn
Specializing in vintage prints, maps, and local artwork housed in a historic barn setting.
The Weathervane Theatre
Professional summer theater presenting musicals and plays in an intimate setting.
Winnipesaukee Kayak Company
Kayak and paddleboard rental and sales company offering guided tours and instruction. Provides access to both Lake Winnipesaukee and smaller area lakes for paddling adventures.
Events in Meredith
Living in Meredith
What you need to know about making Meredith your home.
Schools & Education
Meredith is served by SAU 29 (Inter-Lakes School District), which has a solid reputation for academic achievement and strong community support.
Cost of Living
Housing costs in Meredith reflect its desirable lakefront location, with median home prices typically above the state average due to waterfront properties and seasonal demand. Property taxes are moderate for New Hampshire, though lakefront homes command premium assessments. The town offers a range of housing options from modest year-round homes to luxury lake estates, making it accessible to various income levels while maintaining its upscale lakes region appeal.
Major Employers
Commute Times
School Directory
School District Hub
Newfound Area School District(SAU 2)
Meredith serves as the regional school district hub for 3 surrounding towns:
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