Located on the shores of Ipswich Bay, The Crane Estate is a gem full of old New England charm, as a historical landmark, an event venue and an outdoor haven. The estate is composed of Castle Hill, which includes the house and grounds of an early-20th-century mansion, and popular Crane Beach.
Parking and public transportation at The Crane Estate
Although Crane Beach has two large parking lots, it is so popular on summer weekends that the lots often fill up before noon. Consider taking the shuttle bus that leaves from the Ipswich train station every hour from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends. The price of a bus ticket, which will be between $5-$10, includes entrance to the beach. If you are planning on visiting Castle Hill only, there is ample parking provided near The Great House.
Best and worst times to go to The Crane Estate
The Crane Estate offers something to visitors at any time of year. The beach is at its finest from June-September, but be wary of the period between the full moons in July and August, known in Ipswich as "greenhead season," when vicious flies of the same name plague beachgoers with painful bites. As noted, the beach can get densely packed on weekends, and weekdays offer a more peaceful experience. Up the hill, The Great House offers special events and themed tours around the holiday season.
Admission to The Crane Estate
At the beach, the price of a one-day pass for a carload of people is $10-$30, depending on the season and the day of the week. Walking in is cheaper, at $2 per person during the summer. Entry to the grounds of Castle Hill costs between $10-15, and tours of the Great House will cost an additional $5-20. See the website for a list of up-to-date tours and programs.
Must see/do at The Crane Estate
Taking a walk on the beach and a dip in the ocean is really a must at the Crane Estate; the dunes and sands of Crane Beach are expansive and pristine, and the water, though cold, is supremely refreshing on a humid summer day. From July-August, visit the Great House on Thursday evenings, when a picnic concert series is presented, for $10-25 a carload, on the impressive rolling lawn.
Other places to visit near The Crane Estate
The Crane Estate is located about five miles from downtown Ipswich, along a winding, tree-shaded road. Halfway along this road is Russell Orchards, a family-run farm and orchard. On your way back from the beach, make sure to stop for a fresh-made doughnut and cup of cold apple cider.
Insider tips for visitors to The Crane Estate
On the beach, walk alongside the dunes toward Castle Hill. A little ways beyond the last boardwalk you will find a path going up into the dunes. Follow this path up through the woods to find yourself on the grounds of the Great House.
Julia O'Connor is a full-time editor and part-time freelance writer transplanted from Boston to Denver. She is thriving on the transition and has enjoyed the exploration of both cities and everything in between.