Cornish

Cornish is a small town in Sullivan County in western New Hampshire, nestled in the Connecticut River Valley near the Vermont border. With a population of approximately 1,700, Cornish is known for its rural charm, rolling hills, and its association with the Cornish Art Colony, a community of artists and writers who settled in the area in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The town is perhaps best known as the home of Augustus Saint-Gaudens, the renowned American sculptor whose former estate is now the Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park. The Cornish Art Colony attracted notable figures including painter Maxfield Parrish, writer Sinclair Lewis, and sculptor Herbert Adams. The legacy of this artistic community is still evident in the town's galleries, studios, and cultural events.

Cornish offers a quiet, pastoral setting with scenic views of the Connecticut River Valley and the surrounding hills. The climate features cold, snowy winters and warm, pleasant summers typical of inland New Hampshire. Fall foliage is particularly spectacular in this area.

By Plane

The nearest commercial airport is Lebanon Municipal Airport (LEB), approximately 15 miles north, with limited service. Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT) is approximately 85 miles south. Burlington International Airport (BTV) in Vermont is approximately 60 miles northwest.

By Train

By Car / Road

Cornish is accessible via NH Route 12A and local roads. From Concord, take I-89 North to Exit 12, then follow Route 12A south to Cornish (approximately 1.5 hours). From Lebanon, take Route 12A south (approximately 20 minutes). From Windsor, VT, cross the Connecticut River via the Windsor-Cornish Bridge (seasonal).

Cornish is a small rural town best explored by car. The downtown area is compact and walkable. A car is needed for accessing the Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park and other attractions in the surrounding area.

• Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park — The former home and studio of Augustus Saint-Gaudens, one of America's greatest sculptors. The park features his sculptures, gardens, and the historic buildings of his estate.

• Cornish-Windsor Bridge — A covered bridge spanning the Connecticut River between Cornish and Windsor, VT. It is one of the longest wooden covered bridges in the United States.

• Mount Ascutney — Visible from Cornish, this prominent mountain in Vermont offers hiking with panoramic views of the Connecticut River Valley.

• Cornish Art Colony Sites — Various locations throughout town associated with the historic art colony.

• Hiking — Trails on Mount Ascutney and in the surrounding hills.

• Art Tours — Self-guided tours of sites associated with the Cornish Art Colony.

• Photography — The scenic landscapes and historic architecture offer excellent photography opportunities.

• Cross-Country Skiing — Local trails in winter.

• Fishing — The Connecticut River and local streams offer fishing opportunities.

• Budget: Bed and breakfasts in Cornish and nearby towns, typically $80-130 per night.
• Mid-range: Inns and B&Bs in the Cornish and Upper Valley area, ranging from $120-200 per night.
• Upscale / heritage: Historic inns in Woodstock, VT and Hanover offer boutique accommodations.

• Claremont — 10 miles east, the largest city in Sullivan County with shops and services.
• Windsor, VT — 5 minutes north across the Connecticut River, the birthplace of Vermont with historic sites.
• Woodstock, VT — 15 minutes west, a quintessential New England village with covered bridges and the Billings Farm & Museum.
• Hanover — 20 miles north, home to Dartmouth College with museums, theaters, and dining.
• Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park — The primary attraction in Cornish, worth a half-day visit.