Travel Guide

7 Reasons to Visit Norwich This Spring

Posted on by Ben Rueter

7 Reasons to Visit Norwich This Spring

An Older Couple Hiking on This Vermont Spring VacationSpring has officially sprung in Vermont. The snow is finally melting, the flowers are blooming, and the days are getting longer. It’s the perfect time of year to make the trip to our Vermont hotel, The Norwich Inn. Keep us in mind for your spring travels, and continue reading below for seven reasons to visit Norwich this spring.

1. Our Brewery

There’s no better way to celebrate the arrival of warm weather than with a cold beer. Cheers to the newly-arrived spring season at our Norwich brewery, home of Jasper Murdock Ales.

2. The Outdoors

Norwich spring is a special time of year, where Vermont transforms from a winter wonderland to a summer playground. There’s no better time of year to enjoy all that Vermont has to offer than during the spring. Get outside and get active this spring.

3. Sample the Baked Goods

What better way to kick off a Norwich spring day than with a trip to the iconic King Arthur Baking Company, where you can sample your fill of sweets or take a baking class to learn to make your favorite treats at home.

4. Visit the General Store

Have a classic small-town experience with a visit to Dan & Whit’s General Store this spring. Their motto is “if we don’t have it, you don’t need it,” in reference to their all-encompassing inventory.

5. It’s Hiking Season

Springtime in Norwich means it’s officially time to hit the trails, now that you no longer need cross-country skis. Our favorite hikes include Gile Mountain Trail and Montshire’s Ridge and Hazen Trail.

6. It’s Warm Enough to Find a Good Swimming Hole

It may not be summer yet, but it’s starting to get warm enough to explore the local swimming holes. This spring, head to Twenty Foot Hole on the Black River for a break from the heat.

7. The Farms and Orchards

Experience the best of Vermont’s world-famous produce at the Sugarbush Farm. Sugar Bush Farm started as the first production site of cheese packaged in wax bars in 1945 and now boasts a plentiful production of cheese and maple products set amongst a charming hillside location. 

To learn more about the lovely town of Norwich, Vermont, or to book your stay, head to our website. We can’t wait for you to get here.

The Norwich Inn’s Guide to Exploring Rural Vermont: 3 Day Trips

Posted on by Ben Rueter

The Norwich Inn’s Guide to Exploring Rural Vermont: 3 Day Trips

A couple on a Vermont day tripVermont is a land of rolling hills, rocky peaks, wooded trails, and craft beers. In short, Vermont is a mecca for adventure in the Northeast. Additionally, as one of the Thirteen Colonies, each town, county, and wilderness area is layered in a rich history tied to the birth of our nation. Near the prestigious Dartmouth College, The Norwich Inn stands as it has since 1797, as a mecca of hospitality and fine dining in a quaint town marked by its general store. While our delightful Vermont inn and small-town atmosphere draw visitors from all over the country, we’re also perfectly positioned for a variety of Vermont day trips. Continue below to read our three-part guide to exploring Vermont.

Strafford, Vermont 

If you’re visiting New England in search of a winter wonderland, Strafford should be on your shortlist of Vermont day trips. Just under half an hour on the road from The Norwich Inn, the Strafford Nordic Center provides locals and visitors with over 30 kilometers of groomed, skiable trails for skiers of all abilities.

The Hazen Trail

If you’re in Vermont during the fall, spring, or summer months, hit the trails and check out some of the area’s best hiking. The Hazen Trail is an ideal Vermont day trip for nature lovers. The hike takes you through heavily-forested areas along the Connecticut River and is a moderate hike that’s just over four miles point-to-point. Much of the trail is on the Montshire Museum of Science property and may require a pass.

Sugarbush Farm 

Vermont is known to many as the land of fall foliage and maple syrup, and Sugarbush Farm provides just that. Sugarbush Farm started as the first production site of cheese packaged in wax bars in 1945 and now boasts a plentiful production of cheese and maple products set amongst a charming hillside location. Tour the farm, sample the products, and enjoy this classic Vermont day trip. 

The Norwich Inn is home to an in-house brewery and one of the largest wine selections in the state. For more information on our charming inn or to learn more about Vermont, please read further.

Crisis Management 101 | Enhancements at The Norwich Inn

Posted on by Ben Rueter

 

Crisis Management 101 | Enhancements at The Norwich Inn

“Never let a crisis go to waste” is a quote attributed to Winston Churchill as the world emerged from World War II. Sometimes a severe challenge such as COVID-19 can cause some to shift paradigms: how they view their world…even at a country inn. Maybe it’s getting around to things we always wanted to do; maybe it’s totally new.

Refinished Floors and a Restored Bar Top

In the former category, since our restaurant has had reduced hours and mandated capacity restrictions, we’ve been able to refinish the floors in a number of our dining venues while also restoring the bar top to its original luster. We are lucky to have Dale, our talented and versatile maintenance manager, put his skills to work. Everything looks like new. 

We’ve also instituted a Shuttle Service to area attractions: Dartmouth College, King Arthur Baking Company, and Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center.

The Newhart Room

Photo of The Newhart Room.In the latter category, we’ve re-imagined our original Dining Room into a multi-purpose space. Now our guests can eat, drink, work, meet, watch TV, or all of the above. We ran a contest to name the new space, and the winner was “The Newhart Room.” Where did that come from? Media sources have it that The Norwich Inn and the Town of Norwich were the inspiration behind the popular TV Show, “Newhart,” an eight-season, Golden Globe-nominated sitcom featuring Bob Newhart.

We’ve also incorporated “Whistle,” which is a premier customer service and communication platform for hotels. Whistle improves customer service through real-time engagement utilizing text and mobile message communication with our guests.

Enhanced Al Fresco Dining

The Norwich Inn has always had seasonal al fresco dining. While it had been popular, the surge in demand for the outdoors caused us to re-evaluate how to enhance and broaden the space. First, a sail cover was installed over our Patio, decorated with string lights. Second, we opened our Beer Garden to foodservice. Between the two venues, The Norwich Inn now has the most ample outdoor dining capacity in the area.

On tap for the 2021 season is a total redo and expansion of the Patio with upgraded coverage and new heaters.

While “COVID era” challenges have been daunting, it has caused us to rethink what we do to increase our relevance and enhance the guest experience.

To learn more about the historic Norwich Inn, please visit us online.

The Norwich Inn, an Ultimate Central Vermont Winter Getaway

Posted on by Ben Rueter

 

The Norwich Inn, an Ultimate Central Vermont Winter Getaway

Photo of a Snowy Road in Vermont During Winter's Peak.Central Vermont’s Upper Valley, home to the historic Norwich Inn and newly-rebranded King Arthur Baking Company, is a paradisal winter haven, particularly for those who cherish artisan ales, historical significance, and natural beauty. Start planning the ultimate Central Vermont winter getaway by browsing through The Norwich Inn’s various themed packages, such as “Romance in Vermont.” There’s nothing quite like the winter aesthetic, especially here in the rolling hills that hug the patient Connecticut River, including the early-morning hoarfrost, the icicle-infested covered bridges, and the snow-topped architecture.

15 Ways to Embrace Winter near The Norwich Inn

Photo of a Man Snowshoeing in Vermont During Winter.The Norwich Inn’s idyllic Main Street location is a short drive from the region’s top attractions, including Dartmouth College, Artisans Park, and the aforementioned King Arthur Baking Company. There’s no shortage of museums, outdoor pursuits, and culinary delights within 25 minutes of the inn. In hopes of enhancing your upcoming Central Vermont winter escape, we’ve compiled 15 ways to embrace Jack Frost’s inevitable arrival, including snowshoeing, downtown shopping, and craft beer tours.

  1. Explore Central Vermont’s world-renowned beer scene, with stops in White River Junction, Bridgewater Corners, and Burlington.
  2. Spend a day shopping in Hanover and Norwich, separated only by the serene Connecticut River.
  3. Plan a visit to the Upper Valley’s most absorbing art and history museums.
  4. “Snap” photographs of the Upper Valley’s prettiest (and snowy) covered bridges.
  5. Go snowshoeing in the densely-forested backcountry.
  6. Take a cooking class at King Arthur Baking Company.
  7. Spend an afternoon at Artisans Park, home to the snowy Path of Life Sculpture Garden, Vermont Farmstead Cheese Company, Great River Outfitters, and so many more world-class artisanal shops.
  8. Embark on a guided, shuttled Central Vermont brewery tour.
  9. Support the Norwich Farmers Market by preordering a bushel of locally-sourced goodies.
  10. Plan a wellness retreat, complete with yoga, forest bathing, and hiking.
  11. Sip on a famous Whistling Pig Red Ale, the pride of Jasper Murdock Ales, inside The Norwich Inn’s authentic Irish-style pub.
  12. Tramp through the countryside en route to a handful of frozen waterfalls.
  13. Walk through Dartmouth College’s snow-covered campus.
  14. Embark on a culinary voyage across the Seven Seas of flavor inside Jasper Murdock’s Alehouse.
  15. Blade along the Lake Morey Ice Skating Trail, the longest in the country. Or skate on Hanover’s frozen Occom Pond.

The Norwich Inn, a Central Vermont Winter Basecamp

Photo of a Norwich Inn Guest Room in Vermont. Visit us this Winter!The Norwich Inn plays host to countless Central Vermont winter getaways—mainly couples in need of some long-overdue romance and sophistication. Not only does the inn boast a historic brewery, a diverse culinary experience, and ample charm, but guests will also discover a distinctive mixture of accommodations, including Victorian-style guest rooms, the renovated Walker House, and the pet-friendly Ivy Lodge. And we now offer shuttle services to several nearby attractions, including King Arthur Baking Company and Dartmouth College.

To book a long-awaited wintertime escape to New England’s most peaceful region, please give us a call at 802-649-1143 (or click the green Book Now button).

Snowshoeing in Vermont: Traversing the Upper Valley

Posted on by Ben Rueter

 

Snowshoeing in Vermont: Traversing the Upper Valley

Photo of a Solo Man Snowshoeing in Vermont's Upper Valley.With the holiday season fast approaching, many New Englanders are turning their attention to the upcoming winter sports season. Vermont itself remains one of North America’s most beloved skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing destinations, especially here in the tranquil, undeniably awe-inspiring Upper Valley, home to the historic Norwich Inn. Snowshoeing in Vermont’s rolling, densely-thicketed backcountry remains one of the most underrated ways to celebrate winter’s snowy arrival. Thus, in hopes of enhancing your upcoming getaway to The Norwich Inn, we’ve compiled 10 unique Upper Valley snowshoeing hubs, ranging from Connecticut River-side strolls to steep mountain climbs.

Snowshoeing in Vermont: 10 Unique Upper Valley Experiences

One of the most alluring aspects of snowshoeing in Vermont is that just about anyone can try it without much research. There’s never been a better time to explore new terrains. Oh, and sturdy pair of snowshoes have never been more inexpensive. Below, you’ll find 10 snowy wonderlands that are within minutes of The Norwich Inn. As you might expect, snowshoeing in Vermont is generally a free pursuit, leaving room in your wallet or purse for a King Arthur baking lesson, a brewery tour, or a trip to the Winter Market.

  1. Gile Mountain: Embark on a moderate climb en route to one of the Upper Valley’s many spellbinding overlooks.
  2. Appalachian Trail: While the Appalachian Trail spans nearly 2,200 miles, you’ll only need to leave time for two or three hours of glorious outland snowshoeing on this 3.3-mile excursion.
  3. Montshire’s Ridge: This easy-breezy ridge trail hugs the meandering western banks of the Connecticut River, just a few miles south of Norwich.
  4. Parcel 5 Loop: Parcel 5 is a lush, oft-overlooked forest loop worth revisiting.
  5. The Cornish Town Forest: In a rather quiet forest, only a few ticks southeast of the Cornish-Windsor covered bridge, lies some of the truest snowshoeing trails in the Upper Valley.
  6. Hartland Winter Trails: Get ready for a half or full-day of well-groomed snowshoeing adventures. Hartland is home to approximately 20 kilometers of secluded wilderness.
  7. Boston Lot Lake: There’s never an offseason for recreation near Boston Lot Lake, a hidden gem sandwiched between Lebanon and Hanover.
  8. Mink Brook Nature Preserve: Speaking of Hanover: The Hanover Conservancy’s Mink Brook trail system boasts 112 acres of preserved beauty, home to a bevy of winter woodland critters, such as whitetail deer, black bears, and thriving birdlife.
  9. Bicknell Brook: One of the region’s most photographed waterfalls remains frozen in time inside peaceful Bicknell Brook.
  10. The Pogue: The trek to and from Mount Tom is nothing short of enthralling (and tiring). Woodstock’s Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park is definitely worthy of an extended visit this winter. 

Hotels near King Arthur Baking Company: The Norwich Inn

Photo of a Norwich Inn Guest Room. Click Here to Learn About Snowshoeing in Vermont.After an unforgettable three or four hours of snowshoeing in Vermont’s Upper Valley, return to The Norwich Inn to unthaw and unwind. The inn (established in 1797) is not only an absorbing, picturesque slice of Vermont’s history, but it’s also a long-standing brewery and a culinary destination. Travelers from all across New England flock to the inn to sample Jasper Murdock Ales while simultaneously dining on classic Northeastern fare in a distinctly romantic setting. 

We’re proud to be one of the top-rated hotels near the newly-rebranded King Arthur Baking Company and always jaw-dropping Dartmouth College. To book a well-deserved, snow-packed getaway to beautiful Norwich, please read about our various on-site accommodation options. And, when you’re ready, click the green “Book a Room Now” button.

Plan a Visit to Vermont’s Newly-Rebranded King Arthur Baking Company

Posted on by Ben Rueter

 

Plan a Visit to Vermont’s Newly-Rebranded King Arthur Baking Company

Photo of a Person Kneading Bread at King Arthur Flour in Vermont.King Arthur Flour, the first (and oldest) flour company in the United States, has officially rebranded. Welcome to the Norwich family, King Arthur Baking Company. After 230 years, the Vermont-based company, which began as a small, English-milled flour operation in Boston, thought it was time for an update to “better represent who [they] are today.” Despite the new name, the new brand (the crown of a “wheat king”), and the new rhetoric, Norwich’s King Arthur Baking is still the same time-defying marvel. And, luckily for you, The Norwich Inn is the closest hotel to King Arthur Baking’s 14-acre flagship campus, home to the most beloved baking school in the country.

King Arthur Baking’s Flagship Campus in Norwich, VT

While the Upper Valley’s natural beauty and neighboring Dartmouth College entice droves of travelers to the region, the area’s main draw remains King Arthur Baking’s multi-purpose complex, conveniently located on U.S. Route 5. Main Street’s Norwich Inn lies a mere mile north of the dreamy, modernized campus. Perhaps a scenic bicycle ride to and from King Arthur Baking should be in store this autumn? Although, The Norwich Inn offers $5 (each way) shuttle services to the campus.

Photo of Baked Goods at King Arthur Flour in Vermont.The 14-acre estate is home to a sleek, aromatic cafe, a well-stocked retail store, and, of course, the baking school, including four distinct classes. The outdoor patio is an idyllic place to picnic or work remotely with a cup of joe and a fresh-baked chocolate croissant by your side. Prized cafe menu items include the soupe du jour, the turkey and chipotle jam sandwich, and the wood-smoked bacon and egg sandwich. Once COVID-19 is in the rearview mirror, we expect King Arthur Baking’s full-service gourmet dinner experience to resume. Don’t forget to return home with a cookbook, baking tool, jar of artisanal jam, or vat of locally-sourced maple syrup.

King Arthur’s Growing Online Presence

One of the main reasons Norwich’s King Arthur Baking wholly rebranded was its growing online presence, combined with the nation’s current state. Because of various stay-at-home orders and quarantine measures, many Americans are spending much of their newfound time in the kitchen. Amateur bakers from all over the world began utilizing King Arthur’s Baker’s Hotline, in hopes of providing aid to those struggling with a new recipe. According to recent food trends, the hotline received over 45,000 questions in three months. The folks at King Arthur Baking also provide hundreds of recipes to coincide with the most recent seasonal shifts. They cover it all: doughnuts and cobblers to shortcakes and popovers.

Hotels near King Arthur Baking Company: The Norwich Inn

Photo of a Norwich Inn Suite, Just Minutes Away from King Arthur Flour in Vermont.The Norwich Inn is not only the nearest hotel to Vermont’s own King Arthur Baking Company, but we also offer special baking school packages. For example, the Long Live the King package includes a 20 percent discount on lodging, a complimentary Jasper Murdock Ale, a block of Whistling Pig Ale Cheddar (in collaboration with Vermont Farmstead Cheese), and a free shuttle to King Arthur’s campus. The package runs through March 31, 2021. Remember: Classes are subject to availability, so please check times at your earliest convenience. The Norwich Inn itself was established in 1797; thus, it typically allures romance-starved couples, history buffs, and lovers of fine ales and gourmet cuisines. Please give us a call today at 802-649-1143 to learn more about the Long Live the King package and our many on-site luxuries.

 

Vermont Brewery Tours: Explore the Upper Valley

Posted on by Ben Rueter

 

Vermont Brewery Tours: Explore the Upper Valley

Craft beer is a way of life in Vermont’s Upper Valley, where the region’s natural beauty melds flawlessly with the historical significance and artisanal quintessence. And there’s no better example of artistry, history, and beauty than The Norwich Inn, established in 1797. The Norwich Inn is a culinary destination, a historic hotel, and, of course, a 27-year-old microbrewery. So, it should come as no surprise that the inn collaborates with Vermontology Guided Tours to offer a one-of-a-kind beer, spirit, and food experience in the heart of the Upper Valley. New Englanders flock to The Norwich Inn to take full advantage of the two-day Vermont brewery tour package, which includes a seven-hour shuttled adventure, private tastings, two nights in an old-world guest room, and so much more!

The Vermont Brewery Tour: 6 Stops in 7 Hours

Photo from the Vermont Brewery Tour at The Norwich Inn, including Beer, a Growler, and a Pumpkin.

Before diving fully into the seven-hour Vermont brewery tour, it’s important to note that you may or may not stop at these destinations. Because of COVID-19, elements of the tour are fluid due to altered hours and availability. Rest assured, you’ll still enjoy seven full hours of world-class beer, spirits, and artisanal edibles. This all-inclusive Vermont brewery tour includes stops at a local cheese shop, several taprooms, two distilleries, and the world-famous King Arthur Baking Company (formerly known as King Arthur Flour). Buckle up—it’s going to be a flavorful ride!

1. Cabot Creamery Co-operative

Before opening the tasting tour with a bevy of distilled spirits, you’ll make a quick stop at Cabot’s Quechee location. Their homemade cheeses pair beautifully with just about every type of adult beverage.

2. Vermont Spirits

The Vermont brewery tour’s first core stop is the Quechee Gorge Village, home to Vermont Spirits. The earnest tasting room is spacious and quiet, and you’ll likely have the whole distillery to yourselves.

3. Long Trail Brewing Co.

Next, you’ll trek westward en route to Long Trail Brewing for a flight of craft beer and some American grub, such as a burger, kale salad, or turkey Reuben. Long Trail and Jasper Murdock Ales are two of the oldest craft breweries in Vermont. 

Photo of a Beer Flight During a Vermont Brewery Tour.4. Windsor’s Artisans Park

Windsor’s glorious, eight-business Artisans Park is one of the Upper Valley’s finest attractions. And it’s home to Harpoon Brewery, SILO Distillery, and Vermont Farmstead Cheese Company (among others). The experience can vary, depending on what your group hopes to see and taste. The Path of Life Sculpture Garden is a must-see!

5. River Roost Brewery

On the way back to Norwich, you’ll stop in Hartford at River Roost Brewery, a tiny operation that’s perfect for small groups and tours. Despite its modest taproom, River Roost remains one of the top-ranked breweries in the U.S., according to Untappd’s beer society.

6. King Arthur Baking Company

We’re still getting used to saying “Baking Company,” as it’s been “Flour” for 230 years. Despite the new name and logo, King Arthur’s flagship campus remains the same quintessential New England attraction. Watch a live cooking demonstration, shop on a variety of goods, sip on a hot beverage, savor a dessert, and admire the landscape’s natural beauty.

Two Nights at The Norwich Inn

Photo of a Vermont Brewery Tour inside Jasper Murdock—Bombers of Beer, Anyone?The Norwich Inn’s two-night Vermont brewery tour package includes a wide variety of exclusive luxuries, as seen below. Unlike an “average” stay, each package comes with special perks, such as a take-home bomber and an on-site dining credit. Keep reading to learn more about what’s included:

  • Two nights lodging at The Norwich Inn
  • A welcome beer flight (per person) inside Jasper Murdock’s Alehouse
  • Pick up at 10 a.m. via Vermontology Guided Tours
  • Return to the inn at 5 p.m. for one pint of beer (per person)
  • $25 dining credit per room, good for food or beverage at any time during your stay
  • A take-home 22-ounce bomber (per person) of the Jasper Murdock Ale of your choice
  • A block (per room) of our Whistling Pig Ale Cheddar Cheese made in conjunction with Vermont Farmstead Cheese Company

The package costs $339 per person (double occupancy) or $499 per person (single occupancy). Groups of four (or more) receive a $25 discount per person. While most tours are scheduled for Thursdays, weekends may be available. Please call 802-649-1143 to inquire.

Plan a Visit to Vermont in the Fall: Upper Valley Edition

Posted on by Ben Rueter

 

Plan a Visit to Vermont in the Fall: Upper Valley Edition

Photo of a Barn in Southcentral Vermont in the Fall.Leaf peeping in Vermont’s Upper Valley remains a classic New England “rite of passage.” As summer gradually converts to autumn, the Upper Valley’s diverse forestry magnificently transforms from various hues of green into a colorful, eye-popping meld of marigold, amber, crimson, and kelly. Amateur photographers, honeymooners, and nature enthusiasts alike cannot resist Norwich’s allure. Visiting Southcentral Vermont in the fall is just what the doctor ordered, especially if you’ve been feeling cooped up this summer. An idyllic place to start and finish each day of heart-warming New England foliage is The Norwich Inn, a historical landmark, craft brewery, and fine eatery.

15 Ways to Embrace Vermont in the Fall

There are literally hundreds of ways to embrace Southcentral Vermont in the fall, especially if you have a fleet of eager kiddos who can find pleasure in just about anything outdoors-related. However, there’s ample sophistication, solitude, and nostalgia around every corner of this sprawling, rolling landscape. In particular, the Upper Valley is a sublime destination for couples with a penchant for absorbing history, artisanal delights, and bales of natural beauty.

If you plan to visit Vermont in the fall, we highly recommend bookmarking this makeshift “bucket list.” Some things simply cannot be overlooked, especially during the most colorful of seasons.

  1. Aerial View of Southcentral Vermont in the Fall.Snap photos of several covered bridges, all of which are surrounded by lush, vibrant foliage.
  2. Spend an afternoon at Artisans Park, home to the 14-acre Path of Life Sculpture Garden.
  3. Browse through the local farmers market, and return home with some unique goodies.
  4. Hop into the car and just drive.
  5. Embark on a self-guided Upper Valley brewery tour, where Oktoberfest lagers and pumpkin ales are abundant.
  6. Hike to the top of a jaw-dropping overlook, such as Gile Mountain’s fire tower.
  7. Book the “Great Outdoors” package, which includes hiking, biking, a 20 percent off lodging discount, and a $25 gift card to King Arthur Flour.
  8. Go “waterfalling” in search of true tranquility.
  9. Taste-test an assortment of seasonally-inspired, fall-flavored cuisines at Jasper Murdock’s Alehouse (and wash it down with an annual Oktoberfest märzen).
  10. Survive a wacky, themed corn maze.
  11. Fill a 10-pound peck with scrumptious apples at a nearby orchard.
  12. Stroll through a pumpkin patch in search of “the one.”
  13. Enjoy a picnic at King Arthur Flour’s flagship campus, which happens to feature a bevy of towering, colorful trees.
  14. Paddle down the Connecticut River in a canoe or kayak.
  15. From barn to bottle: Spend a few hours at Silo Distillery’s farmstead.

Classic New England Vacations and Vermont Fall Colors

We sincerely hope that this list of classic autumn activities inspires you to visit Southcentral Vermont in the fall. With September rapidly approaching, please don’t miss out on a romantic getaway to The Norwich Inn. As one of the top-rated hotels near Dartmouth College, our 1797 estate grows quite busy during peak seasons (such as fall). When you’re not picking apples, photographing covered bridges, hiking to summits, and shopping artisanal crafts, The Norwich Inn is the perfect place to unwind, relax, and recharge. Please give us a call today at 802-649-1143 (or check availability online) to book a well-deserved escape into Vermont’s vibrant Upper Valey.

Plan a Visit to the Norwich Farmers Market

Posted on by Ben Rueter

 

Plan a Visit to the Norwich Farmers Market

Since 1977, New Englanders have been flocking to the eclectic, undeniably cheery Norwich Farmers Market, a Saturday morning tradition for locals and repeat travelers alike. Many folks combine an hour at the Farmers Market with a stop at King Arthur Flour’s flagship campus and Windsor’s Artisans Park. Vermont’s Upper Valley is chockful of artisanal and culinary surprises, including historic Norwich Inn, home to Jasper Murdock Ales. The rousing Norwich Farmers Market plays an integral role in this region’s weekend tourism scene, particularly for those with a penchant for fresh-picked produce, handcrafted goods, and, yes, a wide variety of locally-sourced meats and cheeses.

The Norwich Farmers Market: A Saturday Morning Delight

Photo of a Man Selling Produce at the Norwich Farmers Market.

Unlike most like gatherings, the Norwich Farmers Market runs throughout the year. The “Summer Market” extends from early May through October off Route 5, just south of town—you cannot miss it. Meanwhile, the “Winter Market” takes place inside downtown’s Tracy Hall, a 450-foot walk from The Norwich Inn. New Englanders gather to mingle with local agronomists, craftspeople, and botanists, as well as listen to live musicians and experience the undeniably affable culture. Before we dive into the various vendors that frequent the Norwich Farmers Market, it’s important to note that all rooms inside the Ivy Lodge have refrigerators for those who need to keep their haul crisp and cool.

Vendors Galore!

It’s easy to draw tourists to the Norwich Farmers Market because you can practically smell the mouthwatering delicacies and hear the sounds of jubilance from miles away. Several vendors offer fresh goods, such as hot coffee, warm soups, breakfast sandwiches, and juicy burgers, just in case the aromas get the better of you. With more than a hundred different fruits, vegetables, dairy products, meats, plants, and flowers, you’ll undoubtedly leave the Norwich Farmers Market with quite the haul. Some of our favorite finds include basil, broccoli rabe, peaches, radishes, summer squash, and cherry tomatoes. This helpful guide illustrates the fruit and vegetable calendar.

Travelers also cannot resist the urge to purchase a dollop of goat or sheep cheese. A wide variety of smoked meats are available via several vendors. Oh, and don’t forget to peruse the beeswax candles, heavenly soaps, and dazzling jewelry. We’ve linked to 10 of our favorite vendors below for your viewing pleasure. And please remember to read the market’s COVID-19 preparedness guidelines. 

Historic Places to Stay in Norwich, VT

Photo of the Inn's Porch, Just a Short Walk from the Norwich Farmers Market.

After a full day of shopping, scenic overlooks, covered bridges, and craft beer, return to The Norwich Inn for a night of casual dining, local vino, and sheer relaxation inside our 1797 inn. Greet dusk in a handcrafted rocking chair, near our vegetable garden, or inside our Victorian-style Main Inn. As one of the most beloved romantic getaways in Vermont, we’re in the midst of yet another summer of love here in the Upper Valley. And remember: The perfect complement to your well-deserved Vermont vacation is a meticulously-curated special package. Book directly now to save bundles and avoid hidden, third-party fees.

Mountain Biking in Vermont’s Upper Valley

Posted on by Ben Rueter

 

Mountain Biking in Vermont’s Upper Valley

Photo of a Man Mountain Biking in Vermont's Backcountry.As we enthusiastically greet summer’s long-awaited arrival, it’s impossible not to ponder the many wondrous outdoor adventures readily available in the Upper Valley, Vermont’s idyllic gully of romance. With operations gradually returning to semi-normalcy, we expect an influx of nature enthusiasts in the coming months who value the valley’s sprawling natural beauty. The region itself is known for its picturesque covered bridges, serene waterfalls, jaw-dropping scenic overlooks, and glorious Artisans Park. And one of the most common thrill-based exploratory activities is mountain biking (or, to a small sect, cycling). Mountain biking in Vermont’s Upper Valley is a visual, muscle-building treat that very few undertake. Thus, the trails near The Norwich Inn are never crowded.

Mountain Biking in Vermont: 10 Upper Valley Trails

It’s no secret that New Englanders cannot resist the call of Vermont’s rolling mountain ranges, particularly during summer’s lush and autumn’s peak. The allure of Norwich, in comparison to other neighboring destinations, is its proximity to everything, including a prestigious Ivy League institution, some of the country’s finest breweries, a bevy of historical landmarks, and, yes, King Arthur Flour’s flagship campus. There’s a lot to love about this densely-thicketed, riverside community. And perhaps the cherry on top is the area’s growing trail network. When examined as a collective whole, this network of singletrack provides some of the most enticing mountain biking in Vermont. So, without further ado, here are 10 distinct trails near modern Upper Valley rentals:

  1. Blue Ribbon
  2. Brookemeade Main Loop
  3. The Rollercoaster
  4. Noodle’s Revenge
  5. French’s Ledges
  6. Fusters Trail
  7. Parcel 5
  8. Boston Lot 3
  9. Heyl-Dothan Connector
  10. Hardwoods

Alternative Routes: Roads and Rails

You’ll notice from the list above that Pittsfield, a nearby community, has a thriving network of mountainside trails. It’s not overly common to discover such magical mountain biking in Vermont near a village of fewer than 550 residents. It’s worth noting that cycling in Vermont is also subtly growing in popularity. The glory of cycling is that the backcountry is your oyster; there’s seemingly no cap on adventure in the countryside. And the Northern Rail Trail is, without a doubt, the prettiest route in the Upper Valley. This mostly-flat, 58-mile path spans two counties, making it the longest rail-trail conversion in the state. Most cyclists pick up the route near Lebanon. It goes without saying that the leaf-peeping on this trek is undeniably awe-inspiring.

Historic Hotels near Hanover, NH

Photo of People Dining at Norwich Inn After a Day of Mountain Biking in Vermont.

A common gathering place following a full day of mountain biking in Vermont’s glorious backcountry is Jasper Murdock’s Alehouse, a cozy, familiar slice of the past. As one of the premier restaurants in Norwich, we’ve expanded the alehouse throughout the decades. Patio seating is a hot commodity during peak seasons, so please arrive early to nab a table. The Norwich Inn provides an idyllic combination of history, gourmet cuisine, fine ales, and outrageous specials and packages. For updates on lodging, dining, and capacity, please bookmark this link (or follow us on our social media channels).