Peirce Island
Discover the Natural Beauty of Peirce Island
Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion: A Glimpse into Colonial Life
Explore the Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion in Portsmouth, NH: a historic landmark offering a unique glimpse into colonial life and stunning waterfront views.
The Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion, a 40-room clapboard house, was once the home of New Hampshire's first royal governor, Benning Wentworth. Overlooking Little Harbor in Portsmouth, it offers a unique look into 18th-century aristocratic life. Today, the site is a New Hampshire state park and a National Historic Landmark.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Other nearby places you may find interesting
Explore places near Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion
Getting There
Public Transport
From the Portsmouth Bus Station, you can take the COAST bus #1 towards Little Harbor. Get off at the stop nearest to Little Harbor Road, and walk north for about 0.5 miles to the mansion. A single fare on the COAST bus is typically around $1.50 - $2.00.
Walking
From downtown Portsmouth, head southeast on Congress Street toward Water Street. Continue onto Islington Street, then turn right onto Little Harbor Road. The Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion will be on your right, approximately 1 mile from the city center. Allow about 20-25 minutes for the walk.
Driving
From I-95, take exit 7 for US-1 Bypass toward Portsmouth. Merge onto US-1 Bypass and take the exit for NH-33 toward Portsmouth. Continue on NH-33, then turn left onto Little Harbor Road. The mansion will be on your right. Free parking is available at the Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion.
Local tips
✓
Explore the Little Harbor Loop Trail, a 1.5-mile waterside path that connects the mansion grounds to nearby conservation areas.
✓
Pack a picnic to enjoy on the grounds, which offer beautiful views of Little Harbor.
✓
Check the New Hampshire State Parks website for the most up-to-date tour schedules and seasonal hours.
Discover more about Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion
Step back in time at the Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion, a sprawling estate that was once the center of political and social life in colonial New Hampshire. Benning Wentworth, the state's first royal governor, called this 40-room mansion home from 1741 to 1767. The mansion offers a glimpse into the lives of the Wentworth family and those connected to them.
Built in the 18th century, the mansion showcases a blend of architectural styles, reflecting five distinct periods. Inside, visitors can admire the intricate hand-carved mantelpiece and explore rooms like the council chamber and the spy closet, which offer insights into daily life and government during the colonial era. The grounds are adorned with purple lilacs, descendants of the first European stock imported by Wentworth.
Beyond the mansion itself, the estate features a 1.5-mile Little Harbor Loop Trail, which connects the grounds to Creek Farm and Portsmouth Conservation Land. The grounds are perfect for picnicking and offer scenic waterfront vistas. The site is open seasonally, with guided tours available.
A brief summary to Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
Get the app
Your all‑in‑one travel companion app
Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.
More about Dover
Discover Dover, Delaware: A captivating blend of history, culture, and modern attractions. Experience the charm of this historic capital city with something for everyone.
Tell me more about Dover