- by Nora Fairman
CASTLE HILL AT THE CRANE ESTATE
Looking for a scenic New England walk where you can see stunning architecture, explore walking paths, and see spectacular coastal scenery and ocean views? A visit to Castle Hill at the Crane Estate in Ipswich, Massachusetts is in order.
Castle Hill is a 165-acre historic seaside estate that is part of the larger 2,100-acre Crane Estate stewarded by The Trustees of Reservations and includes the iconic Great House, formal gardens, and panoramic ocean views. So grab your camera and enjoy the outdoors, the views, and the history of the Crane Estate.
Plan Your Visit
Location: Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, 290 Argilla Road, Ipswich, MA 01938. This location will bring you to the main entrance gate for the estate, where a staff member will guide you to parking. Please note that there is no beach access or beach parking allowed from Castle Hill.
Tickets: Ground Admission includes access to the gardens, lawns, and walking paths. The ticket is issued for a 3 hour length of time, which is perfect for an outing. Note: Dogs are not allowed at any time; service dogs are always welcome. Purchase Ground Admission guest tickets here. From Memorial Day through October 31, the Great House is open from 10 AM- 4 PM, Tuesday- Sunday, and Ground Ticket holders are welcome to visit the first floor and the gift shop located in the Great House. Tickets range from $10 per adult, $5 for veterans and active military personnel, and $5 for children (Age 12 and under). Castle Hill is open rain or shine.
Tickets: Guided Tours Admission (also includes Ground Admission). Castle Hill Tours run seasonally from mid-April to late November and take place hourly. The tour includes bedrooms, guest rooms, and the spectacular bathrooms of the infamous Crane Plumbing. Note: This tour is not handicap accessible; there is no elevator in the Great House, and the Grand Staircase has 30 steps. Learn more about the Guided Tour and purchase guest tickets here. Adult tickets are $30; children 12 and under are $15.
Must See & Do
- Walk the Grand Allée, a half-mile greenspace that leads to a bluff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean
- Explore the European-inspired gardens and landscape design
- Visit the Great House, featuring incredible design and historical architecture
- Enjoy the walking terrain, including open lawns, gardens, and woodland paths
Tips for Your Visit
- Purchase tickets online in advance. Tickets typically sell out, especially on weekends.
- Other than the Great House, the visit will be outdoors; wear a hat, bring sunscreen, and an extra layer – it can be breezy by the ocean
- Wear comfortable walking shoes – terrain includes gravel, grass, and sloped terrain.
- There is no food service on-site. You are welcome to bring water, and there are designated picnic areas.
- Restrooms are located near the Great House and visitor check-in area
- Parking is included with admission
- Visit the gift shop inside the Great House – this curated gift shop offers everything from vintage-inspired jewelry, art, books, and even holiday ornaments, many locally sourced.
About Lamacchia Realty
Castle Hill is just one of the many beautiful and scenic places to visit on the North Shore. At Lamacchia Realty, we are proud to be a part of this community. So whether you are dreaming of a seaside retreat or a family home in town, our local agents want to help you find your perfect place in the Greater Newburyport Area.
