How to Get Under the Skin of New England

New England may be known around the world for having the best fall leaves display in the States, but there’s so much to see here all year-round. Our Experts have picked out some of their favourite photos and things to do in this beautiful region – prepare to be inspired:

Grab a paddle and spend the day splashing about on Lake Winnipesaukee. It’s immense, even among its prestigious New Hampshire neighbours, with 262 islands to explore across 44,000 acres of crystal-clear water.

Maine’s oldest and most-photographed lighthouse, Portland Head in Cape Elizabeth, dates back to 1787. Savour its romance with a 90-minute Lighthouse Lovers cruise, followed by a Maine classic of lobster supper.

Call me peculiar, but there’s something strangely compelling – and a little bit thrilling – about seeing the velvety antlers of a moose through binoculars. For your best chance of sighting this elusive New England native, join a guided tour with a high spotting success rate.

Jay Gatsby’s got nothing on these guys! Historic Newport Cliff Walk on Rhode Island offers a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle enjoyed by America’s wealthiest families in the early 20th century. Dotted along the coastline, these impressive ‘summer houses’ were built so the industrial elite could escape the heat of the city.

Feeling rebellious? Join the Freedom Trail in Boston, Massachusetts, and explore the history of the American Revolution. You’ll visit the oldest house in downtown Boston, once owned by Paul Revere, whose 1775 ‘Midnight Ride’ sounded the alarm: “The British are coming.”

When the sky is clear, you can see all of New England’s states from Mount Washington Observatory. Known as the White Mountains, these are the highest peaks in the north-east, and perfect for trekking or skiing.

Head to the banks of Connecticut’s legendary Mystic River, where you can rent a vessel from the Boathouse. Or, for a safer option, clamber over one at the Mystic Seaport, a living history museum depicting coastal New England life in the 19th century.

For a slightly different scoop on New England history, take the kids to Ben & Jerry’s Flavor Graveyard and pay your respects to ice cream of a by-cone age. The pair started mixing their famous flavours in Burlington, Vermont, in 1978, and you can now enjoy the factory tour in nearby Waterbury.

Our New England Encompassed holiday can be tailor made to include all of these activities, just chat to one of our Travel Experts to find out more.