Gillette Castle, Gillette Castle State Park Travel Guide

4.7 (1062)

Explore the eccentric castle of William Gillette, the famed Sherlock Holmes actor, with stunning views of the Connecticut River.

Gillette Castle, the eccentric home of actor William Gillette, offers a unique glimpse into the life of the man famous for portraying Sherlock Holmes. Perched atop the Seven Sisters hills along the Connecticut River, the castle boasts distinctive architecture and stunning views.

A brief summary to Gillette Castle

67 River Rd, East Haddam, Connecticut, 06423, US
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Monday 10 am-5 pm
Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
Thursday 10 am-5 pm
Friday 10 am-5 pm
Saturday 10 am-5 pm
Sunday 10 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Gillette Castle.

Purchase tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to guarantee entry to the castle.
Explore the hiking trails around the castle grounds for scenic views of the Connecticut River.
Consider taking the Chester-Hadlyme Ferry for a unique approach to the castle and beautiful river views.
Visit the park during the Holiday Tour Program (late November to late December) for a special festive experience.

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Explore Gillette Castle on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Gillette Castle, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

Gillette Castle State Park is located at 67 River Road, East Haddam, CT 06423. From Route 9 North or South, take Exit 7 for Route 82. Follow Route 82 East through Goodspeed Landing, and watch for signs directing you to the park. Parking is free. Be aware that the road into the park offers a scenic view of the Castle as you approach the main parking lot.
Public Transport

From Hartford, take the CT Transit bus to Chester Park & Ride @ W Main St. From there, it is approximately a 10-minute taxi or ride-share to Gillette Castle. The bus fare is approximately $2-$6. A taxi or ride-share will cost approximately $15-$25 for the final leg of the journey.
Ferry

Consider taking the Chester-Hadlyme Ferry, a seasonal car and passenger ferry that crosses the Connecticut River near Gillette Castle. From the west side of the river in Chester, follow signs to the ferry landing. The ferry operates seven days a week seasonally, with slightly higher rates and shorter hours on weekends. Check the current schedule and fees before your visit. As of May 2025, the ferry fee is approximately $6 for a car and driver. Please bring cash, as it's required for the ferry fee.

Discover more about Gillette Castle

Gillette Castle, located in East Haddam, Connecticut, is a unique and fascinating landmark that was once the home of William Gillette, the actor famous for his portrayal of Sherlock Holmes on stage. Built between 1914 and 1919, with expansions in the 1920s, the castle sits atop the southernmost of the Seven Sisters hills, offering breathtaking views of the Connecticut River.Gillette designed the castle himself, incorporating many unique and quirky features. The 24-room mansion includes hand-carved wooden light switches, unique doors and locking mechanisms, and even secret passageways. The castle's exterior is built from local fieldstone, giving it a medieval, gothic appearance. Originally named 'Seventh Sister Castle' by Gillette, the State of Connecticut renamed it 'Gillette Castle' after purchasing the property in 1943. Gillette's will stipulated that the property should not fall into the hands of any "blithering sap-head".Today, Gillette Castle State Park is open to the public, offering tours of the castle and access to hiking trails and picnic areas. Visitors can explore Gillette's creative genius and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape. The visitor center features exhibits about Gillette's life and career, and a gift shop offers souvenirs.