5 Historic Colonials and Coastal Retreats Across New England

Originally built in 1768, this historically significant Colonial is set on 4.1± pastoral acres just minutes from Downtown Wolfeboro, with a four-story post-and-beam barn that reads like a piece of working architecture. Held by the same family since the King’s Grant, the property offers a flexible layout suited to uses ranging from a single-family home to multi-generation living, a family compound, or a setting for a car collector or equestrian pursuits. On the first level, two parlors and a family room each feature a fireplace, joined by a large dining room with its own fireplace and beehive oven. A fully equipped kitchen anchors daily life, alongside two “Borning” rooms and a half bath. Upstairs, six bedrooms and three bathrooms provide generous capacity. The barn adds parking for up to 16 cars, original cow stanchions, and a fully contained two-story silo for imaginative future use.

Originally built in 1910, this tastefully restored Colonial sits in East Rock, directly across from Edgerton Park. A 26-foot entrance foyer with high ceilings sets a gracious tone, anchored by a sweeping staircase and flanked by a living room with fireplace and built-ins on one side, and a paneled library on the other, lined with bookcases, warmed by its own fireplace, and discreetly finished with a hidden bath. Oversize Thermopane replacement windows bring generous natural light throughout. The formal dining room features leaded-glass built-ins and double French doors that open to a spacious sunroom with three exposures, extending effortlessly to a private bluestone patio and landscaped, level grounds. An updated, south-facing eat-in kitchen includes new appliances and two adjacent pantry spaces—one outfitted with a second dishwasher and refrigerator. Upstairs, a cozy sitting room overlooks the grounds, offering a quiet pause to the day.

In the coastal town of Belfast, this one-of-a-kind 3–4 bedroom, 3.5 bath residence pairs striking architecture with sustainable, net-zero living, moments from the waterfront downtown. A 50’ x 15’ heated sunroom runs along the south side, creating a bright, year-round retreat that helps warm the home in winter while staying comfortable in summer. Open living areas keep daily life and entertaining fluid, while a commercial-ready kitchen brings serious functionality. A large family room with a mini kitchen opens to a covered porch, extending gatherings outdoors with ease. Hidden behind custom bookcases, several “secret” rooms add an unexpected layer of character. Performance-driven details include an arctic slab foundation, closed-cell insulation, strategic orientation, heat pumps, a propane Generac generator, and a wood stove, all powered by a 25kW solar array. Outside, enjoy a fenced backyard and wooded-lot trails.

Within Bedford’s Grand Avenue Residences, this 9-home, 55+ gated community offers a rare balance of serenity and everyday convenience—only one resident must be 55+. The setting is designed for ease, with hardwood flooring, Thermador appliances, and Granite State Cabinetry called out among the quality finishes. Practical comforts are covered as well: an auto generator, public water and sewer, natural gas, and high-speed internet. A gated entrance with 24/7 security and automated access anchors the sense of privacy, while the HOA handles snow removal, landscaping, and sidewalks. Residents also have access to BVI/Grand Hotel amenities, including pools, a spa, fine dining, and Manchester Airport valet services. With quick reach to I-293, I-93, Rt. 101, and downtown Manchester, daily life can stay both relaxed and well connected.

Steps from the white sands and gentle surf of Goose Rocks Beach, this distinctive Wildwood Avenue residence balances historic character with room to live broadly across generations. Set on a larger-than-typical lot of over half an acre on the east end of the beach, it pairs exceptional walkability with a sense of space that’s increasingly rare in Kennebunkport. Inside, soaring ceilings and nostalgic touches nod to its roots, while an open floor plan is designed for gathering, with multiple sun-filled sitting areas, an oversized kitchen suited to hosting, and a generous dining space that invites connection. Outdoor living extends the day with a spacious deck, screened-in porch, private yard, and an enclosed outdoor shower for easy returns from the shore. With established summer rental history, it’s a place to settle into and shape over time.

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