Hancock, NH

Travel Guide
Hancock showing fall colors and a lake or waterhole
Named after a prominent signer of the Declaration of Independence, it’s fitting that this small New Hampshire town is steeped in history.

Visit Hancock, one of New Hampshire’s oldest towns. It was settled in 1764 and is named in honor of John Hancock, the patriot who played a prominent role in the American Revolution.

Stroll down picturesque Main Street. Buildings lining the street vary from stately brick storefronts to wood-shingled homes, but they have one thing in common: Almost all the buildings on Main Street are on the National Register of Historic Places.

Learn about the area’s rich history at the Hancock Historical Society. Walk through the historic Symonds Home, built in 1808, and explore a collection of antiques and exhibits from the town’s past.

Watch the village unfold before your eyes on the Hancock Town Common. Relax under the gazebo and study the monument honoring those who served in the French and Indian Wars. The green hosts a summer outdoor concert series.

Go fishing or kayaking on Norway Pond. Sunbathe on the small sandy beach or swim out to the dock in warmer months.

Stop at the Hancock Library. Besides housing a robust collection of books, the historic brick building also frequently hosts exhibits from local artists.

Visit the Hancock Inn, New Hampshire’s oldest continually operated inn. It opened its doors in 1789, during the first year of George Washington’s presidency. Eat a delicious dinner or enjoy a cozy stay in one of its historic rooms.

Learn about the importance of protecting the natural world around you at the Harris Center for Conservation Education. The conservation site offers hands-on learning activities and a network of hiking trails. Go birding or pack a picnic to enjoy in the great outdoors.

Take advantage of Hillsborough County’s natural beauty at Seven Maples Campground. Pitch a tent under the stars, swim in the pool or play shuffleboard with fellow campers.

Be enchanted by Hancock in any season, from its colorful fall leaves to its snow-blanketed winters. In under an hour, drive to larger cities such as Manchester or Concord, the state’s capital.

Best Western Plus Keene Hotel
Best Western Plus Keene Hotel
3 out of 5
401 Winchester St, Keene, NH
The price is ₩175,600 per night from Nov 5 to Nov 6
₩175,600
₩190,526 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 5 - Nov 6
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Keene. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,005 reviews)
"It was all good. Pool water not warm enough"

Reviewed on Oct 28, 2024

Best Western Plus Keene Hotel
Days Inn by Wyndham Keene NH
Days Inn by Wyndham Keene NH
2 out of 5
3 Ash Brook Road, Keene, NH
The price is ₩105,517 per night from Nov 17 to Nov 18
₩105,517
₩114,486 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 17 - Nov 18
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Keene. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. ...
7.2/10 Good! (955 reviews)
Will be back
"Great value. Beds good, soft towels, great TV choices. WiFi not so much. Older a/c unit but it worked fine. Happy to find a comfortable hotel at a good price during leaf season."

Reviewed on Oct 23, 2024

Days Inn by Wyndham Keene NH
Courtyard by Marriott Keene Downtown
Courtyard by Marriott Keene Downtown
3 out of 5
75 Railroad St, Keene, NH
The price is ₩162,759 per night from Nov 17 to Nov 18
₩162,759
₩176,593 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 17 - Nov 18
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Keene. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (984 reviews)
"Pleasantly surprised. Lots to do. Great beds."

Reviewed on Oct 25, 2024

Courtyard by Marriott Keene Downtown
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Rustic Waterfront Cottage w/ Fire Pit & Kayaks
Rustic Waterfront Cottage w/ Fire Pit & Kayaks
2.5 out of 5
Weare
Stay at this apartment in Weare. Enjoy free parking and in-room fireplaces. Popular attraction Pats Peak is located nearby.
Rustic Waterfront Cottage w/ Fire Pit & Kayaks
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit

Reviews of Hancock

4.4
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
3
" "5 - Excellent 60%
4 - Good
1
" "4 - Good 20%
3 - Okay
1
" "3 - Okay 20%
2 - Disappointing
0
" "2 - Disappointing 0%
1 - Terrible
0
" "1 - Terrible 0%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

It was so lovely and historical. It was also close enough to Peterborough and other areas and easily accessible to beautiful hiking

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveler

Nice little cafe in town. Best sandwich I’ve had in a while...the Big Ben warmed up and on oatmeal bread.

Cities near Hancock