Rockingham County, located in the southeastern part of New Hampshire, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. With its picturesque towns, scenic landscapes, and strong sense of community, it’s no wonder that Rockingham County has become a popular destination for tourists and a desirable place to live for many. In this article, we will delve into the towns that make up Rockingham County, exploring their unique characteristics, attractions, and what makes each one special.
Introduction to Rockingham County
Rockingham County is the second-most populous county in New Hampshire, with a population of over 295,000 people, according to the 2020 United States Census. The county seat is Brentwood, and the largest city is Derry. Rockingham County is situated in the southeastern part of the state, bordering Essex County, Massachusetts, to the south, and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. The county’s diverse landscape, which includes coastal areas, forests, and mountains, provides a wide range of outdoor recreational activities and stunning scenery.
Geography and Climate
Rockingham County’s geography is characterized by its coastal location, with the Atlantic Ocean bordering the eastern part of the county. The coastline offers beautiful beaches, scenic drives, and a variety of marine life. Inland, the county’s terrain is dominated by forests, hills, and mountains, providing ample opportunities for hiking, skiing, and other outdoor pursuits. The climate in Rockingham County is humid continental, with cold winters and warm summers. The coastal areas tend to be milder than the inland regions, with temperatures ranging from the mid-20s to the mid-70s (°F) throughout the year.
Economy and Industry
The economy of Rockingham County is diverse, with a mix of industries, including technology, healthcare, education, and tourism. The county is home to several major employers, including Liberty Mutual Insurance, Oracle, and Elliot Hospital. The tourism industry also plays a significant role in the local economy, with visitors drawn to the county’s natural beauty, historic sites, and cultural attractions. The county’s agricultural sector is also notable, with many farms producing a variety of crops, including apples, berries, and dairy products.
The Towns of Rockingham County
Rockingham County is comprised of 37 towns, each with its unique character, history, and attractions. Some of the most notable towns in the county include:
Atkinson, Auburn, Brentwood, Candia, Chester, Danville, Deerfield, Derry, East Kingston, Epping, Exeter, Fremont, Greenland, Hampstead, Hampton, Hampton Falls, Kensington, Kingston, Londonderry, New Castle, Newfields, Newington, Newmarket, Newton, North Hampton, Northwood, Nottingham, Plaistow, Raymond, Rye, Salem, Sandown, Seabrook, South Hampton, Stratham, and Windham.
Town Highlights
Some of the towns in Rockingham County are particularly noteworthy for their historic significance, cultural attractions, or natural beauty. For example, Exeter is home to the Phillips Exeter Academy, a prestigious private school, and the American Independence Museum, which showcases the country’s revolutionary history. Hampton is a popular beach town, with its scenic coastline, historic district, and vibrant cultural scene. Derry is the largest city in the county, with a rich history, a variety of restaurants and shops, and a strong sense of community.
Recreational Activities
Rockingham County offers a wide range of recreational activities, including hiking, skiing, fishing, and boating. The county’s coastal areas provide ample opportunities for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing, while the inland regions offer scenic drives, hiking trails, and ski resorts. Some of the most popular recreational spots in the county include Hampton Beach State Park, Odiorne Point State Park, and Blue Job Mountain.
Outdoor Pursuits
For outdoor enthusiasts, Rockingham County is a paradise. The county’s diverse landscape provides a wide range of activities, including hiking, biking, skiing, and fishing. The Rockingham Recreational Trail is a 26-mile trail that stretches from Salem to Newfields, offering scenic views, historic sites, and opportunities for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing. The county’s coastal areas are also popular for kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing.
Cultural Attractions and Events
Rockingham County is home to a variety of cultural attractions and events, including museums, historic sites, festivals, and performances. The Currier Museum of Art in Manchester (just outside the county) features a collection of American and European art, while the Stratham Historical Society Museum showcases the town’s history and culture. The county is also home to several festivals and events, including the Hampton Beach Seafood Festival, the Derry Fest, and the Exeter Powder Keg Beer and Chili Festival.
Historic Sites
Rockingham County is rich in history, with many historic sites and landmarks throughout the county. The Robert Frost Farm in Derry is a historic farm that was once the home of the famous poet Robert Frost. The Exeter Historical Society Museum features a collection of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Exeter’s history and culture. The Hampton Historic District is a charming area with many historic buildings, including the Hampton Town Hall and the First Congregational Church.
Arts and Entertainment
The arts and entertainment scene in Rockingham County is thriving, with a variety of venues, performances, and events throughout the year. The Exeter Arts Committee sponsors a range of cultural events, including concerts, theater productions, and art exhibitions. The Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom is a popular venue for live music and comedy performances, while the Derry Opera House hosts a variety of productions, including musicals, plays, and concerts.
Conclusion
Rockingham County, NH, is a unique and captivating region, with its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant culture. From the scenic coastline to the picturesque towns, there’s something for everyone in this charming county. Whether you’re interested in outdoor pursuits, cultural attractions, or simply exploring the local community, Rockingham County is a must-visit destination. With its strong sense of community, diverse economy, and wide range of activities and events, it’s no wonder that Rockingham County has become a popular place to live, work, and visit.
In the following table, a selection of towns in Rockingham County is presented, highlighting their population and area:
| Town | Population | Area (sq mi) |
|---|---|---|
| Derry | 22,015 | 36.5 |
| Exeter | 14,306 | 20.0 |
| Hampton | 14,976 | 14.0 |
| Londonderry | 24,129 | 42.1 |
| Salem | 28,776 | 25.9 |
The towns of Rockingham County can also be grouped by their geographic location, as shown below:
- Coastal towns: Hampton, Hampton Falls, North Hampton, Rye, Seabrook
- Inland towns: Atkinson, Auburn, Brentwood, Candia, Chester, Danville, Deerfield, Derry, East Kingston, Epping, Exeter, Fremont, Greenland, Hampstead, Kingston, Londonderry, New Castle, Newfields, Newington, Newmarket, Newton, Northwood, Nottingham, Plaistow, Raymond, Salem, Sandown, South Hampton, Stratham, Windham
Each town in Rockingham County has its own unique character and attractions, making the county a fascinating and diverse region to explore.
What makes Rockingham County, NH, a popular destination for tourists and locals alike?
Rockingham County, located in the southeastern part of New Hampshire, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. The county’s unique blend of rural landscapes, scenic coastline, and picturesque towns makes it an attractive destination for tourists and locals alike. From the majestic White Mountains to the tranquil Lake Winnipesaukee, Rockingham County offers a diverse range of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, fishing, and boating. Visitors can explore the county’s many parks, forests, and nature reserves, which provide ample opportunities for wildlife watching, photography, and relaxation.
The county’s charming towns, such as Portsmouth, Exeter, and Hampton, are steeped in history and offer a wealth of cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, and performance venues. Visitors can stroll through the towns’ quaint streets, admiring the historic architecture, browsing local shops and boutiques, and sampling the region’s renowned cuisine. With its warm hospitality, rich heritage, and stunning natural beauty, Rockingham County is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of New Hampshire. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural exploration, or simply relaxing in a beautiful setting, Rockingham County has something to offer everyone.
What are some of the top attractions and activities to explore in Rockingham County, NH?
Rockingham County is home to a wide range of attractions and activities that cater to diverse interests and ages. One of the top attractions is the Strawbery Banke Museum in Portsmouth, which showcases the region’s history and culture through interactive exhibits and living history demonstrations. Visitors can also explore the beautiful beaches and coastal towns, such as Hampton Beach and Rye, which offer swimming, surfing, and sunbathing opportunities during the summer months. For outdoor enthusiasts, the county’s many parks and nature reserves, such as Pawtuckaway State Park and the Rockingham Recreational Trail, provide ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife watching.
In addition to its natural beauty and outdoor activities, Rockingham County is also known for its vibrant arts and cultural scene. The county is home to numerous galleries, museums, and performance venues, such as the Music Hall in Portsmouth and the Exeter Town Hall. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, including concerts, theater productions, and art exhibitions. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant cultural scene, Rockingham County offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural exploration, Rockingham County has something to offer everyone.
What are the best towns to visit in Rockingham County, NH, and what do they have to offer?
Rockingham County is home to numerous charming towns, each with its own unique character and attractions. Portsmouth, the county’s largest city, is a must-visit destination, with its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and stunning waterfront location. Visitors can explore the city’s historic downtown area, which features a range of shops, restaurants, and galleries, as well as the iconic Portsmouth Harbor Trail. Exeter, another popular town, is known for its picturesque downtown area, which features a range of historic buildings, including the Exeter Town Hall and the Exeter Historical Society Museum.
Hampton, a coastal town located on the Atlantic coast, is a popular destination for beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts. The town’s beautiful beaches, such as Hampton Beach and North Beach, offer swimming, surfing, and sunbathing opportunities during the summer months. Visitors can also explore the town’s scenic coastal trails, which provide stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscape. Other notable towns in Rockingham County include Derry, Londonderry, and Salem, each with its own unique attractions and charm. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant cultural scene, Rockingham County’s towns offer a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages and interests.
What are some of the best outdoor activities to enjoy in Rockingham County, NH?
Rockingham County offers a wide range of outdoor activities that cater to diverse interests and ages. For outdoor enthusiasts, the county’s many parks and nature reserves, such as Pawtuckaway State Park and the Rockingham Recreational Trail, provide ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife watching. Visitors can explore the county’s scenic trails, which range from easy to challenging, and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The county’s many lakes and rivers, such as Lake Winnipesaukee and the Exeter River, offer opportunities for fishing, boating, and kayaking.
In addition to its many parks and nature reserves, Rockingham County is also home to numerous beaches and coastal towns, such as Hampton Beach and Rye, which offer swimming, surfing, and sunbathing opportunities during the summer months. Visitors can enjoy a range of water sports, including paddleboarding, kayaking, and sailing, or simply relax on the beach and enjoy the stunning ocean views. With its rich natural beauty and diverse outdoor activities, Rockingham County is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or simply a chance to connect with nature, Rockingham County has something to offer everyone.
What is the best way to get around Rockingham County, NH, and what transportation options are available?
Rockingham County is easily accessible by car, with several major highways, including I-95 and US-1, passing through the county. Visitors can rent a car at one of the county’s several airports, including the Manchester-Boston Regional Airport and the Portsmouth International Airport, or bring their own vehicle. The county also has a range of public transportation options, including buses and trains, which connect the major towns and cities. The COAST bus system, for example, provides convenient and affordable transportation between Portsmouth, Exeter, and other towns in the county.
In addition to its public transportation options, Rockingham County is also bike-friendly, with several scenic bike trails and routes that connect the major towns and cities. Visitors can rent a bike at one of the county’s several bike shops or bring their own bike and enjoy the stunning scenery and fresh air. With its convenient location and range of transportation options, Rockingham County is easy to get around, and visitors can enjoy all that the county has to offer without worrying about transportation. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing drive, a scenic bike ride, or a convenient public transportation option, Rockingham County has something to suit every need and preference.
What are some of the best places to eat and drink in Rockingham County, NH?
Rockingham County is renowned for its vibrant food and drink scene, with a range of restaurants, cafes, and bars that cater to diverse tastes and budgets. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood at one of the county’s many coastal restaurants, such as the Portsmouth Brewery or the Hampton Beach Seafood Restaurant. The county is also home to a range of farm-to-table restaurants, which showcase the region’s local produce and artisanal products. The Exeter Inn, for example, offers a range of seasonal dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
In addition to its many restaurants and cafes, Rockingham County is also home to a range of craft breweries and wineries, which offer tours, tastings, and live music events. The Stoneface Brewing Company in Newington, for example, offers a range of craft beers and live music events, while the Flag Hill Distillery and Winery in Lee offers tours and tastings of its award-winning wines and spirits. With its rich culinary heritage and vibrant food and drink scene, Rockingham County is a paradise for foodies and drink enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner, a casual lunch, or a night out with friends, Rockingham County has something to suit every taste and budget.
What are some of the best events and festivals to attend in Rockingham County, NH?
Rockingham County is home to a wide range of events and festivals that take place throughout the year, showcasing the region’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty. One of the most popular events is the Hampton Beach Seafood Festival, which celebrates the region’s fresh seafood and features live music, cooking demonstrations, and seafood tastings. The county also hosts a range of outdoor festivals, such as the Portsmouth Jazz Festival and the Exeter Summer Festival, which feature live music, food vendors, and activities for all ages.
In addition to its many festivals and events, Rockingham County is also home to a range of cultural attractions, including museums, galleries, and performance venues. The Music Hall in Portsmouth, for example, hosts a range of concerts, theater productions, and comedy shows throughout the year, while the Exeter Town Hall features a range of cultural events and exhibitions. With its rich cultural heritage and vibrant events scene, Rockingham County is a great place to visit at any time of year. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural exploration, or simply a fun and festive atmosphere, Rockingham County has something to offer everyone.