Gillette Castle: A Theatrical Landmark
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
- +1860-424-3200
- Visit website
- 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
Local tips
- 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.
Getting There
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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.
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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.
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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
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hadlyme Ferry Historic District
0.4 km
Explore the charm of the Hadlyme Ferry Historic District, the second oldest ferry in Connecticut, nestled in scenic landscapes along the Connecticut River.
East Haddam Historical Society
3.2 km
Explore East Haddam's rich history at the East Haddam Historical Society, where heritage comes alive through engaging exhibits and local stories.
Deep River Historical Society
4.7 km
Explore the rich history of Deep River, Connecticut at the Deep River Historical Society, where local heritage comes to life through engaging exhibits and artifacts.
Pratt House Museum - Essex Historical Society
8.2 km
Explore the Pratt House Museum in Essex, CT, and uncover the fascinating stories of local history and heritage in a charming historical setting.
Thankful Arnold House
9.7 km
Discover the rich history of the Thankful Arnold House in Haddam, Connecticut, a charming non-profit attraction offering insights into early American life.
Florence Griswold Museum
13.7 km
Explore the Florence Griswold Museum, a captivating blend of American art, history, and stunning gardens in picturesque Old Lyme, Connecticut.
Ferry Landing State Park
14.1 km
Explore the scenic beauty of Ferry Landing State Park in Old Lyme, Connecticut, a serene spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
General William Hart House
15.7 km
Explore Old Saybrook's colonial past at the General William Hart House, a captivating local history museum with stunning grounds and engaging exhibits.
Clinton Village Historic District
17.9 km
Explore the charming Clinton Village Historic District, a hidden gem in Connecticut filled with rich history, antique shops, and scenic architecture.
Millers Pond State Park
18.0 km
Explore Millers Pond State Park in Durham, CT - a serene escape for nature lovers offering hiking, fishing, and picturesque landscapes.
The Chatham Historical Society
18.3 km
Explore the Chatham Historical Society in East Hampton, CT, where local history comes alive through fascinating exhibits and engaging programs.
Saint Clements Castle & Marina
18.9 km
Explore the elegance of Saint Clements Castle & Marina, a historic venue blending luxury, beauty, and nature in Portland, Connecticut.
Saybrook Breakwater Lighthouse
19.1 km
Explore the historic Saybrook Breakwater Lighthouse, a picturesque landmark offering breathtaking views of Long Island Sound and rich maritime history.
Hammonasset Beach
21.2 km
Hammonasset Beach in Madison, CT, offers a stunning two-mile stretch of sandy shoreline, perfect for family fun, relaxation, and nature exploration.
Meigs Point Hammonasset Beach State Park, Madison, CT
21.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Meigs Point at Hammonasset Beach State Park, a coastal gem perfect for outdoor adventures and family fun in Madison, CT.
Unmissable attractions to see
Gillette Castle State Park
0.0 km
Experience the magic of Gillette Castle State Park, where history, architecture, and nature unite in a breathtaking setting.
Gillette Castle Visitor Center
0.1 km
Explore the life and legacy of William Gillette at the gateway to his castle, offering historical insights and visitor amenities.
Friends Of Gillette Castle
1.0 km
Explore the architectural wonder of Gillette Castle, a unique blend of history and natural beauty perched over the scenic Connecticut River.
Chapman Pond Preserve
2.6 km
Experience the tranquility of Chapman Pond Preserve, a nature lover's haven in East Haddam, Connecticut, offering scenic trails and stunning wildlife views.
Deep River Landing
3.2 km
Discover scenic beauty and rich history at Deep River Landing, a tranquil riverfront park with stunning views and access to river cruises.
Eagle Landing State Park
4.3 km
Discover scenic beauty and abundant wildlife at this tranquil Connecticut River park, perfect for birdwatching, picnics, and river excursions.
East Haddam Swing Bridge
4.4 km
Experience the historic East Haddam Swing Bridge, a scenic marvel offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into early 20th-century engineering.
Brainard Homestead State Park
5.6 km
Discover a tranquil escape at Brainard Homestead State Park in East Haddam, CT, offering open space, bird watching, and a peaceful connection with nature.
Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park
8.3 km
Experience the tranquil beauty and rich history at Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park, a perfect escape for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
Essex Steam Train & Riverboat
8.3 km
Discover the enchanting journey of the Essex Steam Train & Riverboat, where history meets breathtaking scenery in Connecticut.
Cockaponset State Forest
8.7 km
Explore Connecticut's vast wilderness: hiking, camping, and outdoor adventures await in Cockaponset State Forest.
Connecticut River Museum
8.7 km
Discover the maritime history and natural beauty of the Connecticut River at the Connecticut River Museum, a must-visit destination for every traveler.
RiverQuest
8.8 km
Eco-tours on the Connecticut River: Explore wildlife, history, and scenic beauty aboard the RiverQuest, departing from the Connecticut River Museum in Essex.
Machimoodus State Park
9.3 km
Discover scenic trails, river views, and the history of 'Moodus Noises' at this tranquil Connecticut state park.
Haddam Meadows State Park
9.4 km
Explore scenic riverfront landscapes, enjoy boating and fishing, and discover the rich history of Haddam Meadows State Park in Connecticut.
Essential places to dine
Castle Cuisine
0.1 km
Experience culinary delight at Castle Cuisine in East Haddam – where local flavors meet scenic views.
Marker 37
1.8 km
Experience exceptional dining at Marker 37 in Chester - where fresh ingredients meet local flavor in a cozy atmosphere.
River Tavern
2.9 km
Experience exquisite New American cuisine at River Tavern in Chester, CT, where local flavors meet stunning riverside views.
Pica Chica Tacos
18.3 km
Experience vibrant Mexican flavors at Pica Chica Tacos in Clinton, CT - where every bite tells a delicious story.
McDonald's
18.6 km
Enjoy classic fast food at McDonald's in Clinton - perfect for travelers seeking quick meals at affordable prices.
Cohen's Bagel Company
19.3 km
Discover the authentic flavors of New York-style bagels at Cohen's Bagel Company in Madison, Connecticut—your perfect breakfast spot!
Dunkin'
19.5 km
Discover Dunkin' in Madison – Your go-to spot for coffee, bagels, and donuts amidst Connecticut's charm.
Clam Castle
19.5 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Clam Castle in Madison, CT - where every dish tells a story of coastal tradition and flavor.
Donahue's Madison Beach Grille
19.6 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Donahue's Madison Beach Grille in picturesque Madison, CT—where every meal is a seaside celebration.
Lenny & Joe's
19.6 km
Discover fresh seafood delights at Lenny & Joe's in Madison, where every bite takes you closer to the ocean.
Esca Restaurant & Wine Bar
24.2 km
Discover culinary excellence at Esca Restaurant & Wine Bar in Middletown, where fresh ingredients meet exquisite wines for an unforgettable dining experience.
Luce Restaurant
24.2 km
Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine at Luce Restaurant in Middletown - where traditional flavors meet local charm.
The Place Restaurant
25.7 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at The Place Restaurant in Guilford - where coastal flavors meet inviting ambiance.
Quattro's Italian Restaurant
26.4 km
Experience the flavors of Northern Italy at Quattro's Italian Restaurant in Guilford—where delicious cuisine meets live entertainment.
Fire at the Ridge
27.1 km
Discover Fire at the Ridge: Where Delicious American Cuisine Meets Live Music in Middlefield, CT.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hadlyme Country Market
2.4 km
Discover the flavors of Hadlyme at Hadlyme Country Market, where local ingredients meet artisanal delights in a charming setting.
The Space Chester
2.9 km
Discover the vibrant world of contemporary art at The Space Chester, where creativity and inspiration come alive in a charming Connecticut setting.
Pet's Choice
4.1 km
Discover a pet supply paradise at Pet's Choice in Deep River, CT, where every pet's needs are met with care and expertise.
Celebrations
4.1 km
Explore Celebrations in Deep River, CT, for unique gifts, local artisan crafts, and a charming shopping experience in a beautiful town.
Sweet & Savory
4.3 km
Discover Sweet & Savory, East Haddam's beloved bakery, offering a delicious array of pastries, açaí bowls, and ice cream for every palate.
Swingbridge Fine Wine & Spirits
4.3 km
Experience the finest wines, local beers, and premium spirits at Swingbridge Fine Wine & Spirits in East Haddam, Connecticut.
Goodspeed's Station Country Store
4.5 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Goodspeed's Station Country Store in Haddam, Connecticut—a must-visit for every traveler.
River Valley Provisions
4.6 km
Explore River Valley Provisions, the perfect grocery store for tourists in Haddam, offering local flavors and unique gourmet selections.
Two Wrasslin' Cats Coffee House & Cafe
4.7 km
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Vintage Home Decor
8.1 km
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Old Beautiful Antiques & Art
8.4 km
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Gather Again
8.4 km
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The RiverLane
8.4 km
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Connecticut River Artisans
8.7 km
Explore the Connecticut River Artisans: A captivating gift shop and art gallery showcasing local craftsmanship and creativity in Essex, Connecticut.
Treasures
13.4 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rustica Ristorante
1.4 km
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The Anchor
1.7 km
Experience the culinary delights of Chester, Connecticut, at The Anchor, where every meal is a celebration of local flavors and warm hospitality.
The Village Bistro
2.8 km
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Pattaconk 1850 Bar & Grille
2.9 km
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Landing & Main
3.6 km
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Whistle Stop Cafe
3.8 km
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Calamari's Tavern
3.8 km
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Yankee Cider Company
3.8 km
Experience the essence of New England at Yankee Cider Company, where local apples create exceptional handcrafted ciders in a charming setting.
Red House
4.1 km
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Gelston House
4.2 km
Discover the culinary delights of Gelston House in East Haddam, CT, where American cuisine meets picturesque river views and a lively atmosphere.
The Brushmill by the Waterfall
4.3 km
Experience exquisite New American cuisine by a picturesque waterfall at The Brushmill, a must-visit dining destination in Chester, Connecticut.
Higher Grounds at 32 Main
4.5 km
Experience the perfect blend of breakfast delights and artistic ambiance at Higher Grounds in East Haddam.
Morina Restaurant
4.7 km
Discover the authentic Italian cuisine and warm ambiance of Morina Restaurant in Haddam, Connecticut, where every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Cactus Bistro, Bar, and Grill
4.8 km
Experience flavorful culinary creations and a vibrant atmosphere at Cactus Bistro, the perfect dining destination in East Haddam.
Rusty Rail Tavern
6.0 km
Discover Rusty Rail Tavern in Deep River, CT, where flavorful grill dishes meet a cozy atmosphere, making every visit a delightful culinary experience.
