Peterborough
Where artistic inspiration meets New Hampshire's natural splendor in America's first free library town.
About Peterborough
Nestled in the shadow of Mount Monadnock, Peterborough embodies the quintessential New Hampshire town where artistic spirit meets rural charm. This vibrant community has long been a magnet for writers, artists, and creative minds, earning recognition as America's first free public library town and home to the renowned MacDowell artist colony. The town's picturesque downtown, anchored by the flowing Contoocook River, features a delightful mix of historic architecture, local shops, and cultural venues that reflect its rich literary and artistic heritage. Peterborough strikes a perfect balance between small-town intimacy and cultural sophistication, offering residents and visitors alike a genuine taste of New England life. From the bustling farmers market to the acclaimed Peterborough Players theater, the community celebrates both its agricultural roots and its commitment to the arts. The surrounding landscape of rolling hills, pristine lakes, and extensive trail networks provides endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both cultural enrichment and natural beauty.
Why Peterborough?
- Home to the historic MacDowell artist colony, attracting world-renowned writers, composers, and visual artists
- America's first free public library, established in 1833, reflecting the town's commitment to education and culture
- Prime location in the Monadnock Region with easy access to hiking, lakes, and outdoor recreation
- Thriving downtown with local businesses, restaurants, and the acclaimed Peterborough Players theater
- Strong sense of community with year-round festivals, farmers markets, and cultural events
Also covering
This page also covers smaller towns near Peterborough:
Quick Facts
Real Estate
Property taxes fund local services and schools
Things To Do
MacDowell Artist Colony
year-roundVisit this historic artist retreat where over 9,000 artists have created works since 1907. The colony offers occasional public events and exhibitions showcasing resident artists' work.
Peterborough Players
summerEnjoy professional theater productions at this beloved summer theater company performing in a converted 1930s barn. The intimate venue has been entertaining audiences with high-quality productions for over 80 years.
Peterborough Historical Society
year-roundExplore local history through exhibits and archives housed in multiple historic buildings downtown. The society maintains fascinating collections documenting the town's role in New Hampshire's cultural and industrial development.
Downtown Peterborough Walking Tour
year-roundStroll through the charming downtown district featuring 19th-century architecture, local shops, and the scenic Contoocook River. The walkable downtown offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and modern amenities.
Peterborough Farmers Market
summerBrowse fresh local produce, artisan crafts, and prepared foods every Saturday morning in Depot Square. This vibrant community gathering showcases the region's agricultural bounty and creative talents.
Sharon Arts Center
year-roundExperience rotating exhibitions and purchase handcrafted items from regional artists at this nearby cultural destination. The center also offers workshops and classes for visitors interested in learning traditional crafts.
Outdoor Recreation
Mount Monadnock
year-roundScale New Hampshire's most climbed mountain, just minutes from downtown Peterborough. The summit offers spectacular 360-degree views and multiple trail options for hikers of all skill levels.
Miller State Park
year-roundExplore New Hampshire's oldest state park on Pack Monadnock Mountain with hiking trails and a scenic auto road. The park offers excellent views of the Monadnock Region and southern New Hampshire.
Contoocook River
summerPaddle the gentle waters flowing through downtown Peterborough and surrounding countryside. The river offers peaceful paddling with opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy scenic New Hampshire landscapes.
Cunningham Pond
summerCool off at this popular local swimming spot with a sandy beach and picnic areas. The pond provides a perfect family-friendly destination for swimming, fishing, and relaxing on hot summer days.
Wapack Trail
year-roundHike sections of this 21-mile ridge trail that passes near Peterborough through the Wapack Range. The trail offers excellent views and connects multiple peaks in the Monadnock Region.
OHRV Trail Network
summerAccess extensive ATV and dirt bike trails throughout the surrounding state forests and private lands. The region offers hundreds of miles of maintained trails for off-highway recreational vehicles.
Snowmobile Trail System
winterExplore the extensive network of groomed snowmobile trails connecting Peterborough to destinations throughout New Hampshire. The area is part of the state's comprehensive trail system maintained by local clubs.
Cross Country Skiing
winterEnjoy Nordic skiing on groomed trails at nearby venues and backcountry routes throughout the region. The rolling terrain and reliable snow cover make this area ideal for cross-country skiing enthusiasts.
Dining & Entertainment
The Waterhouse Restaurant
Fine dining in a beautifully restored 1800s mill building overlooking the Contoocook River. The menu features contemporary American cuisine with an emphasis on local ingredients and seasonal specialties.
Harlow's Pub
A local favorite serving comfort food and craft beers in a relaxed downtown atmosphere. This popular gathering spot features live music, pub trivia, and a welcoming environment for both locals and visitors.
Peterborough Diner
Classic American diner fare served in a friendly, no-frills atmosphere that's been a local institution for decades. Known for hearty breakfasts, homemade soups, and traditional New England comfort food.
Twelve Pine
Farm-to-table dining featuring locally sourced ingredients and creative seasonal menus. This upscale restaurant emphasizes sustainable practices and showcases the best of New Hampshire's agricultural offerings.
Aesop's Tables
Cozy cafe and bookstore combination offering light meals, coffee, and literary atmosphere. Popular with locals and visitors alike for its relaxed setting and connection to Peterborough's literary heritage.
Local Businesses
Brady's American Grille
Casual dining restaurant serving American classics with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Popular for both family dinners and business lunches with a welcoming atmosphere.
Brady's Auto Service
Full-service auto repair shop providing maintenance and repairs for all vehicle types. Trusted local business with experienced mechanics.
Eastern Mountain Sports
Outdoor recreation retailer offering equipment, clothing, and expert advice for hiking, skiing, and other activities. Perfectly positioned to serve the area's active outdoor community.
Harrisville Designs
Yarn shop and weaving studio specializing in natural fiber products and textile arts. Offers classes, workshops, and supplies for knitting, weaving, and fiber arts.
Maggie's Marketplace
Independent grocery store emphasizing local and organic products, gourmet foods, and specialty items. Serves as a community hub with knowledgeable staff and personalized service.
Monadnock Paper Mills
Historic paper manufacturer producing specialty papers for various industries. One of the region's largest employers with a long local history.
Peterborough Basket Company
Family-owned business creating handwoven baskets and offering basket-making supplies and classes. Continues a traditional New England craft with both functional and decorative pieces.
Peterborough Coffee Roasters
Local coffee roastery and café serving freshly roasted beans and espresso drinks. Community gathering spot popular with locals and visitors.
Peterborough Community Center
Fitness facility and community gathering space offering exercise programs and social activities. Modern facility serving residents of all ages.
Peterborough Community Market
Local grocery store emphasizing organic and locally sourced products. Serves as a community hub with bulletin boards and local product displays.
Peterborough Folk Music Society
Non-profit organization presenting folk, acoustic, and world music concerts in intimate settings. Brings nationally touring artists to the community while supporting local musicians.
Peterborough Food Co-op
Community-owned grocery store emphasizing organic, local, and sustainable products. Member-owned cooperative supporting local farmers and producers.
Peterborough Hardware
Traditional hardware store offering tools, supplies, and local expertise. Family-owned business serving contractors and homeowners alike.
Peterborough Laundromat
Clean, well-maintained laundry facility with modern equipment and convenient hours. Essential service for residents and visitors.
Peterborough Oil Company
Heating oil and propane delivery service with emergency repair capabilities. Local company providing essential energy services to area residents.
Peterborough Pharmacy
Full-service independent pharmacy providing personalized care and prescription services. Family-owned business that has been serving the community's healthcare needs for generations.
Peterborough Veterinary Hospital
Full-service animal hospital providing comprehensive veterinary care for pets and livestock. The experienced team offers both routine and emergency veterinary services.
Riverview Farm
Working farm offering fresh produce, seasonal activities, and farm-to-table experiences. Popular destination for families and farm-fresh products.
Roy's Market
Family-owned grocery store serving the community for decades with personal service. Features local products, fresh meats, and a deli counter with homemade specialties.
Sharon Arts Center
Premier craft gallery and education center featuring fine American crafts and contemporary art. Offers workshops, classes, and rotating exhibitions showcasing regional and national artists.
Studio 101
Community art center offering classes, workshops, and studio space for artists of all levels. Features rotating exhibitions and provides a creative hub for the town's thriving arts community.
The Cobbler Shop
Shoe repair and leather goods service preserving traditional craftsmanship. Skilled artisan providing quality repairs and custom work.
The Folk Way
Unique gift shop featuring handcrafted items, jewelry, and home décor from local and regional artisans. Reflects Peterborough's artistic community.
The Peterborough Basket Company
Historic building now housing various shops and the Monadnock Center for History & Culture. The beautifully restored space maintains its industrial character while serving modern retail needs.
The Toadstool Bookshop
Independent bookstore offering carefully curated selection of books, gifts, and local author events. A beloved community gathering place for book lovers and literary enthusiasts.
Toadstool Bookshop
Independent bookstore featuring carefully curated selections and regular author events. A beloved community gathering place for book lovers and literary discussions.
Events in Peterborough
No upcoming events found in or near Peterborough.
View all events near PeterboroughLiving in Peterborough
What you need to know about making Peterborough your home.
Schools & Education
Peterborough is served by the ConVal School District (SAU 1), known for its strong academic programs and commitment to arts education, reflecting the community's cultural values.
Cost of Living
Housing costs in Peterborough reflect its desirable location and cultural amenities, with median home prices typically above the state average due to the town's appeal to artists, professionals, and retirees. Property taxes are moderate for New Hampshire, and the town offers good value for those seeking small-town charm with cultural sophistication, though affordability can be challenging for first-time buyers in the current market.
Major Employers
Commute Times
School Directory
School District Hub
Contoocook Valley School District(SAU 1)
Peterborough serves as the regional school district hub for 7 surrounding towns:
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