Merrimack County · Dartmouth/Sunapee

New London

Where college-town culture meets classic New England charm in the heart of the Lakes Region.

Population4,397

CountyMerrimack

RegionDartmouth/Sunapee

About New London

Nestled in the heart of New Hampshire's Dartmouth-Sunapee region, New London exudes the quintessential charm of a New England college town. Home to Colby-Sawyer College, this picturesque community of 4,400 residents sits gracefully between Mount Kearsarge and Pleasant Lake, offering a perfect blend of academic vitality and small-town warmth. The town's tree-lined streets are dotted with well-preserved colonial and Victorian homes, while the college campus adds a youthful energy that keeps the community vibrant year-round. New London's rich history dates back to 1753, and today it serves as a cultural hub for the region with its thriving arts scene, excellent dining establishments, and proximity to world-class outdoor recreation. The town successfully balances its role as an educational center with its appeal as a four-season destination, where visitors can enjoy everything from summer concerts on the common to winter skiing at nearby mountains. Whether you're browsing the local shops along Main Street or attending a performance at the college, New London offers an authentic taste of New Hampshire living at its finest.

Why New London?

Home to prestigious Colby-Sawyer College, bringing cultural events and academic energy
Stunning location between Mount Kearsarge and Pleasant Lake with exceptional natural beauty
Vibrant Main Street with locally-owned shops, restaurants, and galleries
Easy access to multiple ski areas, hiking trails, and lake activities
Strong sense of community with year-round festivals and events

Also covering

This page also covers smaller towns near New London:

Bradford(1,650)Newbury(2,182)Springfield(1,298)Sunapee(3,342)Sutton(1,922)Wilmot(1,422)

Quick Facts

Population

4,397

County

Merrimack

Region

Dartmouth/Sunapee

School District

SAU 65

Real Estate

Median Home Price

Contact a local realtor

Property Taxes

NH has no income or sales tax

Property taxes fund local services and schools

View Listings in New London

Things To Do

Colby-Sawyer College Events

year-round

Attend concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions at this beautiful liberal arts campus. The college regularly hosts community events, lectures, and cultural programs open to the public.

New London Historical Society

year-round

Explore local history through exhibits and programs at this well-curated museum. The society maintains several historic buildings and offers guided tours during peak season.

Main Street Shopping

year-round

Browse unique boutiques, antique shops, and local galleries along the charming downtown corridor. The walkable Main Street offers everything from handcrafted goods to specialty foods.

Pleasant Lake Beach

summer

Enjoy swimming, kayaking, and picnicking at this pristine lake just minutes from downtown. The public beach area offers beautiful mountain views and calm waters perfect for families.

Ausbon Sargent Land Preservation Trust Trails

year-round

Hike or snowshoe through protected conservation lands with well-marked trails. The trust maintains numerous properties around New London offering scenic walks and wildlife viewing.

New London Barn Playhouse

summer

Experience professional summer theater at this beloved regional venue operating since 1933. The playhouse presents musicals, comedies, and dramas in an intimate barn setting.

Outdoor Recreation

Mount Kearsarge State Park

year-round

Hike to the summit for 360-degree views of central New Hampshire and Vermont. The moderate 1.1-mile trail leads to a historic fire tower with spectacular panoramic vistas.

Pleasant Lake

summer

Perfect for swimming, fishing, kayaking, and canoeing with crystal-clear waters. The lake offers several access points and is known for its excellent bass and trout fishing.

King Ridge Ski Area

winter

Enjoy family-friendly skiing and snowboarding just minutes from downtown. This small local mountain offers affordable lift tickets and a welcoming atmosphere for beginners and intermediates.

Messer Pond

year-round

A quieter alternative for fishing, kayaking, and peaceful nature observation. The pond is surrounded by conservation land and offers excellent bird watching opportunities.

Dining & Entertainment

Flying Goose Brew Pub & Grille

Local institution serving craft beer and hearty pub fare in a casual atmosphere. Known for their house-brewed ales and popular weekend brunch menu.

Millstone Restaurant

Upscale dining featuring American cuisine with seasonal ingredients in an elegant setting. The restaurant offers an extensive wine list and refined atmosphere perfect for special occasions.

MacKenna's Restaurant

Family-friendly establishment serving classic American dishes and comfort food favorites. Popular with locals and college families for its consistent quality and welcoming service.

Cricenti's Cafe

Cozy spot for coffee, light meals, and homemade baked goods with a loyal local following. The cafe serves breakfast and lunch with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients when possible.

Peter Christian's Tavern

Historic tavern atmosphere with a menu of traditional New England fare and comfort classics. Known for their prime rib, seafood dishes, and warm, colonial-style ambiance.

Local Businesses

Andover Service Center

Other

Full-service auto repair shop serving the greater New London area for over 30 years. Specializes in both foreign and domestic vehicles with certified technicians.

Route 11

Country Houses Antiques

Other

Multi-dealer antique shop housed in a historic building with furniture, collectibles, and vintage items. Popular destination for treasure hunters and collectors from throughout New England.

Main Street

Elkins Fish & Game Club

Outdoor Recreation

Private club offering fishing, hunting, and outdoor recreation opportunities. Hosts community events and maintains conservation lands in the area.

Elkins Road

Hometown Pharmacy

Other

Independent pharmacy offering prescription services and health care products. Provides personalized service and medication consulting in a small-town setting.

Main Street

Morgan Hill Bookstore

Shopping

Independent bookstore featuring new and used books with a strong local and regional section. Hosts author events and book clubs throughout the year.

Main Street

New London Inn

Other

Historic inn providing accommodations and event space in the heart of downtown. Features elegant rooms and serves as a popular venue for weddings and special events.

Main Street

New London Trust Company

Other

Community bank providing personal and business banking services to the region. Known for their local decision-making and community involvement.

Main Street

Tatewell Gallery

Arts & Entertainment

Contemporary art gallery showcasing work by regional and national artists. Features rotating exhibitions and represents both emerging and established artists.

Main Street

Events in New London

No upcoming events found in or near New London.

View all events near New London

Living in New London

What you need to know about making New London your home.

Schools & Education

New London is served by the Kearsarge Regional School District (SAU 65), which has a strong reputation for academic excellence and community involvement.

Cost of Living

Housing costs in New London reflect its desirability as a college town and recreational destination, with median home prices typically above the state average. Property taxes are moderate for New Hampshire, though the town's excellent schools and services provide good value. The presence of Colby-Sawyer College creates a competitive rental market, particularly for smaller properties, while the area's natural amenities and proximity to recreational opportunities contribute to strong property values.

Major Employers

Colby-Sawyer CollegeNew London HospitalKearsarge Regional School DistrictTown of New LondonDartmouth-Hitchcock Medical CenterLake Sunapee Region VNA & Hospice