Gillette Castle State Park, Middlesex County Travel Guide

4.7 (3782)

Explore the eccentric castle and scenic grounds of Sherlock Holmes' portrayer, William Gillette, overlooking the Connecticut River.

Home
Travel Guides
Connecticut
Middlesex County
Gillette Castle State Park

Perched high above the Connecticut River, Gillette Castle State Park offers a unique blend of history, architecture, and natural beauty. Built by William Gillette, the actor famous for his portrayal of Sherlock Holmes, the castle is a fascinating glimpse into the mind of a creative genius.

A brief summary to Gillette Castle State Park

67 River Rd, East Haddam, Connecticut, 06423, US
Click to display
Click to display

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Purchase tickets in advance, especially during peak season and holidays, to guarantee entry to the castle.
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the castle grounds and hiking trails.
Bring cash if you plan to take the Chester-Hadlyme Ferry.
Pack a picnic to enjoy on the grounds, as there is no food service currently available at Gillette Castle.
Check the park's website for information on seasonal events and programs.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

RiverQuest

Connecticut River Museum

Devil's Hopyard State Park

Bauer Park

Haddam Meadows State Park

Explore Gillette Castle State Park on the Map

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

Getting There

Driving

Gillette Castle State Park is located at 67 River Road, East Haddam, CT 06423. From I-95, take Exit 69 and follow Route 9 North to Exit 6 or 7. From I-91 South, take Exit 22 and follow Route 9 South to Exit 7. Then follow Route 82 East and park signs. The drive into the park offers a scenic view of the Castle. Parking is free.
Public Transport

From Hartford, take the CT Transit bus from Pearl St @ Trumbull St to Chester Park & Ride @ W Main St. From there, it's approximately a 10-minute taxi or ride-share to Gillette Castle State Park. The bus fare is approximately $2 - $6. A taxi or ride-share from Chester Park and Ride to the park will cost approximately $15 - $25.
Ferry

During the warmer months (typically April through November), the Chester-Hadlyme Ferry provides a unique and scenic access point to the park. The ferry is accessed from Route 148. From the ferry landing on the Hadlyme side, the castle is a short drive or moderate walk uphill. The ferry fee is $5 per vehicle on weekends and $4 on weekdays; walk-on passengers and bicyclists are $2.

Discover more about Gillette Castle State Park

Gillette Castle State Park, straddling the towns of East Haddam and Lyme, Connecticut, is a captivating destination that blends history, unique architecture, and stunning natural scenery. The park's centerpiece is the castle itself, a 24-room stone mansion designed and built by William Gillette between 1914 and 1919. Gillette, a Hartford native, was an actor, director, and playwright, most notably known for his portrayal of Sherlock Holmes.Gillette personally oversaw every phase of the castle's construction, resulting in a home filled with unique features and oddities. The interior reflects a craftsman aesthetic, with hand-hewn southern white oak woodwork and 47 uniquely designed doors. Other unusual features include built-in couches and a movable table on tracks. The castle's design also incorporated elements of surprise, such as secret doors and passages. The grounds of the park also showcase Gillette's artistic influence, with trails following the path of his former miniature railroad.After Gillette's death in 1937, the State of Connecticut purchased the property in 1943, ensuring that it would not fall into the hands of someone who wouldn't appreciate its unique character. Today, the park welcomes visitors to explore the castle, hike the wooded grounds, and enjoy the spectacular views of the Connecticut River. The Chester-Hadlyme Ferry, operating since 1769, provides a historic and scenic way to access the park. The park offers a variety of activities, including camping, hiking, and picnicking.