Castle Craig: A Stone Tower with Panoramic Views
A historic stone tower in Meriden's Hubbard Park, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the region's rich history and natural beauty.
Castle Craig, located within Hubbard Park in Meriden, Connecticut, is a unique and historic landmark offering visitors breathtaking views and a glimpse into the area's past. The 32-foot-tall tower, constructed of local trap rock, stands on East Peak, 976 feet above sea level. Dedicated on October 29, 1900, Castle Craig was donated to the people of Meriden by Walter Hubbard, a local industrialist and philanthropist. The tower's design inspiration remains a topic of debate, with some suggesting Norman French towers, a 12th-century Turkish tower, or an ancient Scottish fortification as possible influences. From the observation deck, accessible via an interior metal stairway, visitors can see the Hartford skyline, the foothills of the Berkshires, New Haven, and Long Island Sound on a clear day. Hubbard Park, surrounding Castle Craig, spans 1,800 acres and offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic landscapes. The park was designed with the help of Frederick Law Olmsted's sons, who also designed Central Park in New York City. Visitors can explore the park's diverse terrain, including the Hanging Hills, part of the Metacomet Ridge formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago. The park is open year-round, with vehicular access to Castle Craig via Reservoir Road available from May to October.
Local tips
- Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most stunning views from the tower.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the hike to the tower can be steep.
- Bring a camera to capture the scenic panoramas and wildlife around the park.
A brief summary to Castle Craig
- Peak Dr, Meriden, Connecticut, 06451, US
- Visit website
Getting There
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Driving
From I-91, take I-691 West to Exit 4 for Southington/Route 322. Turn left onto West Main Street. Hubbard Park will be on the left, approximately one mile from the exit. Follow Peak Drive to access the road leading to Castle Craig. Note that vehicular access to the tower is typically open from May to October, 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM, weather permitting. Parking is available within Hubbard Park. During the Daffodil Festival, there is no parking at Hubbard Park.
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Public Transport
Take the CT Transit bus from New Haven (Route 213) towards Meriden. Get off at the Meriden Green stop. From there, you can walk or take a local taxi to Hubbard Park, approximately 1.5 miles away. The bus fare is approximately $1.75.
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Walking
From within Hubbard Park, follow the paved road or hiking trails leading to East Peak. The trails vary in difficulty, with some being steep. The white-blazed Hubbard Park Loop trail begins near the picnic area west of Mirror Lake. Walkers and joggers are allowed use of Reservoir Road 365 days of the year during normal park operating hours which is basically sunrise to sunset.
