Litchfield, with its historic homes clustered around an oval-shaped green, has the appealing air of a place where time has stood still. Well-preserved Georgian buildings hark back to an era when the town marked a key stagecoach stop between Hartford and Albany, N.Y., and the surrounding countryside brims with potential adventures for curious travellers. Accommodation options include self-catering spots closer to town, as well as a gorgeous farm with superb cottages, catering to a ranges of tastes and budgets. This area remains popular as a weekend escape for city dwellers, and the best places to stay in Litchfield promise you the same opportunity to rest and recharge in this charming corner of Connecticut.

For a taste of days gone by, visit Topsmead State Forest — once the summer retreat of Edith Morton Chase, whose Tudor-style house still stands — or Tapping Reeve’s one-room schoolhouse. This simple spot was the site of the English-speaking world’s first law school, which opened in 1784.

If you’re keen to immerse yourself in the great outdoors, White Memorial Conservation Center offers 35 miles of hiking and cycling trails, as well as boating, canoeing and kayaking on Bantam Lake and River. Mount Tom State Park is a superb choice for a swim and a picnic, following a climb to the top of Mount Tom (1325 ft) for panoramic views. Finally, head to the Ripley Waterfowl Conservancy to see whooper swans, eider ducks, blue-winged geese, emperor geese, teal and grey-crowned crane, amongst others. A birdwatcher’s paradise!

Back in Litchfield, you’ll find a wonderful array of ice cream parlours, eateries and little shops. Pick a perch on the green and watch the world go by before retreating to one of the best places to stay in Litchfield.

The Best Places to Stay in Litchfield

For a luxurious escape

• Winvian Farm is a delightful hideaway set within 113 acres of verdant countryside. The 18th-century property is charming and ideal for relaxing with a book, an art class or a spa day, whilst there's also heaps for active travellers of all ages to do in the surrounding area. Cottages have an appealing, rustic-chic feel — some feature fireplaces and private terraces — and the seasonal, farm-to-fork fare is a highlight. An indulgent escape for couples or families.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Hartford-Bradley International Airport and take a bus or taxi to Litchfield. The drive should take around one hour.
• Connecticut is ideal for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel during the summer months (June to August) for the warmest weather, but do be aware that this is peak season. Come in the spring (April - May) or autumn (September - October) for fewer crowds and great hotel deals.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Browse our list of the best places to stay in Hartford.
• Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Connecticut.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Litchfield