In the southeastern folds of New Hampshire, where old glacial ridges meet patchwork woods and granite soil, the Pawtuckaway Mountains shape more than the skyline—they shape how people live. This isn’t ski country or second-home country. It’s year-round, deeply local, and quieter not because it tries to be, but because it never stopped being that way.
Towns like Deerfield and Chichester don’t advertise their charm—they rely on rhythm instead: maple tapping in March, pond skating in January, hay cutting when the wind shifts warm. Drive these roads and you’ll pass sawmills still working, driveways without mailboxes, general stores where the register rings up both groceries and town gossip. You won’t find souvenir shops, but you’ll find trails without signage, lakes without docks, and neighbors who learned long ago that presence matters more than pace.
The name “Pawtuckaway” speaks to deep histories—likely from an Abenaki word referencing “falling water”—and these towns still move in relation to the land: around granite outcrops, past stone wall lines, across low-lying farmland. Their scale is human. Their appeal is in what they’re not trying to be.
Here are 10 places that didn’t grow for growth’s sake. They remain small, not out of nostalgia, but out of preference—and in doing so, they offer a version of New England living that hasn’t been branded, polished, or diluted.
10. Pittsfield: Hidden Away in New Hampshire’s Backcountry
Pittsfield, with a population of around 4,200, is a quaint town tucked away in New Hampshire’s backcountry. It’s a place where community spirit thrives, and visitors can enjoy local events like the annual Hot Air Balloon Rally that paints the sky with vibrant colors.
The town offers outdoor activities along the Suncook River and trails through lush forests perfect for hiking and exploring. While small businesses and local shops make up the backbone of Pittsfield’s economy, its agricultural roots are still evident in the surrounding farmlands.
What makes Pittsfield truly secluded is its vast open spaces and the natural barriers formed by rolling hills and dense forests, creating a peaceful atmosphere far removed from city life. Residents cherish the tranquility and the sense of privacy that comes from living in such an idyllic setting.
Where is Pittsfield?
Located in the heart of Merrimack County, Pittsfield is nestled amidst the scenic landscapes of central New Hampshire. Its seclusion stems from being off the main thoroughfares, surrounded by expansive woodlands and natural formations that shield it from the noise and bustle of larger towns.
To reach Pittsfield, you can take Route 28 north from Concord, which offers a scenic drive through the countryside before arriving in this peaceful enclave. The town’s location makes it a hidden gem for those seeking solace in nature while still being within a reasonable distance from the state’s capital.
9. Chichester: Serenity in the Countryside
Chichester is a peaceful town of approximately 2,600 residents, offering a serene slice of countryside living. Visitors and locals alike enjoy exploring local farms, antique shops, and the historic Chichester Grange Hall, which echoes the town’s rich history.
The town’s economy is anchored by agriculture and small family-owned businesses that add to its quaint charm. Chichester’s rural landscapes are dotted with spacious properties, where large lot sizes afford homeowners plenty of privacy and room to breathe.
Its location, comfortably distanced from bustling urban centers, contributes to a slower pace of life that many find refreshing. The combination of open spaces and a tight-knit community makes Chichester an ideal haven for those seeking solitude amid New Hampshire’s natural beauty.
Where is Chichester?
Nestled in Merrimack County, Chichester lies just east of Concord, yet it feels worlds away due to its secluded setting. The town’s seclusion is enhanced by its rural surroundings and the absence of major highways cutting through its landscape.
You can reach Chichester via Route 4, which meanders through scenic countrysides and brings you to this tranquil locale. Its position away from primary transportation routes ensures that Chichester remains a quiet retreat, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
8. Lee: Nestled in Natural Beauty
Lee is a picturesque town of around 4,500 residents, known for its strong commitment to preserving natural lands. Outdoor activities abound, with places like Little River Park providing trails for hiking and spots for picnicking amidst the serene landscapes.
The town boasts numerous farms and orchards, such as Demeritt Hill Farm, where visitors can pick their own fruit and enjoy seasonal events. Agriculture and small family-run businesses form the backbone of Lee’s economy, reflecting its rural heritage.
Over 50% of the town remains undeveloped, as Lee prioritizes conservation and open spaces to maintain its tranquil environment. This emphasis on preserving natural beauty offers residents a peaceful place to call home, free from the encroachment of urban sprawl.
Where is Lee?
Nestled in Strafford County, Lee is conveniently situated near the Seacoast region yet retains a secluded feel. Its seclusion is enhanced by extensive conservation lands and a landscape of forests and rolling hills that shield it from the hustle of nearby cities.
You can reach Lee via Route 125 or Route 152, which wind through scenic rural areas before bringing you into the heart of town. Despite its proximity to the University of New Hampshire in Durham, Lee offers a quiet retreat, making it a hidden gem for those seeking a harmonious blend of accessibility and peaceful living.
7. Candia: Countryside Seclusion Near the Mountains
Candia is a delightful town with a population nearing 3,900, offering a taste of serene country living close to the Pawtuckaway Mountains. Adventure seekers can enjoy the Candia Springs Adventure Park, featuring zip lines and water attractions, or visit Charmingfare Farm for family-friendly animal encounters.
The town’s economy is rooted in agriculture and locally owned businesses that contribute to its tight-knit community feel. Candia’s vast forests and spacious residential lots provide residents with ample privacy and room to enjoy the natural surroundings.
The blend of wooded areas and open spaces creates a tranquil environment that’s perfect for those looking to escape the busyness of urban life. Living in Candia means embracing a peaceful lifestyle amidst the beauty of New Hampshire’s countryside.
Where is Candia?
Located in Rockingham County, Candia sits just east of Manchester, yet maintains a distinct sense of seclusion. Its proximity to the Pawtuckaway Mountains and surrounding forests enhances this secluded atmosphere, as natural landscapes envelop the town.
Access to Candia is convenient via Route 43 or Route 27, which connect the town to nearby highways while preserving its quiet charm. This accessibility paired with its countryside seclusion makes Candia an ideal spot for those who desire a rural haven that’s still within reach of city amenities.
6. Epsom: A Rural Retreat Surrounded by Greenery
Epsom is a welcoming town of approximately 4,800 residents, offering a rural retreat amidst abundant greenery. Nature lovers can explore Fort Mountain and the Epsom Town Forest, both providing trails and scenic vistas ideal for hiking.
The Suncook River meanders through the town, adding to the picturesque landscape and offering opportunities for fishing and canoeing. While Epsom hosts a variety of small businesses that serve the community, it remains largely residential with a peaceful ambiance.
The large property sizes in Epsom give homeowners the privacy they seek, with spacious yards and plenty of room between neighbors. This abundance of natural spaces combined with the quiet surroundings creates a tranquil lifestyle far removed from city noise and congestion.
Where is Epsom?
Situated in Merrimack County, Epsom lies east of Concord and serves as a gateway to New Hampshire’s Lakes Region. Its seclusion is reinforced by the rolling hills and forests that envelop the town, distancing it from the bustle of nearby urban centers.
You can reach Epsom via Route 4 or Route 28, both of which provide scenic drives through the countryside. This convenient yet secluded location makes Epsom an appealing choice for those who want the peace of a rural setting without being too far from essential amenities.
5. Barrington: Peaceful Living off the Beaten Path
Barrington is a town of about 9,000 residents that offers peaceful living off the beaten path. With attractions like Swains Lake for boating and fishing, and Nippo Lake Golf Club for those who enjoy hitting the links, there’s plenty to do for outdoor enthusiasts.
The historic Calef’s Country Store adds a touch of classic charm, providing locally made goods and a sense of community. Despite its growing population, Barrington maintains a low population density thanks to its substantial undeveloped areas.
This leads to a quiet, low-traffic environment where residents can enjoy the serenity of their surroundings. The town’s commitment to preserving open spaces makes it an ideal spot for those seeking a secluded lifestyle amidst New Hampshire’s natural beauty.
Where is Barrington?
Located in Strafford County, Barrington sits conveniently between the cities of Rochester and Dover but remains tucked away from the main thoroughfares. The town’s seclusion is enhanced by its expansive forests and rural roads that weave through untouched landscapes.
Accessible via Route 125 or Route 9, Barrington is easy to reach yet feels worlds apart from the hustle of nearby urban areas. This strategic location allows residents to enjoy a tranquil environment while still benefiting from the amenities found in neighboring towns.
4. Strafford: Hidden Among Rolling Hills
Strafford is a picturesque town of roughly 4,000 people, hidden among the rolling hills of New Hampshire. The town boasts the beautiful Bow Lake, a focal point for fishing, boating, and lakeside relaxation.
Trails in the Blue Hills Conservation Area provide opportunities for hiking and immersing oneself in nature. Agriculture remains a vital part of Strafford’s character, with local farms contributing to the rural charm.
Properties here often sit on spacious lots averaging over an acre, giving residents plenty of room and privacy. Its distance from bustling urban centers enhances Strafford’s peaceful ambiance, making it a haven for those who appreciate the quiet countryside.
Where is Strafford?
Situated in Strafford County, the town of Strafford is located northwest of Dover, nestled away from major highways. The seclusion is heightened by the surrounding hills and forests that cocoon the town in natural beauty.
Accessing Strafford typically involves scenic drives along Route 202A or local roads that reveal the area’s tranquil landscapes. This somewhat remote location ensures a slower pace of life, attracting those who desire a true escape from the noise and speed of city living.
3. Northwood: Lakeside Tranquility and Seclusion
With a population of approximately 4,200, Northwood is a haven of lakeside tranquility and natural beauty. Known for being part of “Antique Alley,” the town offers a variety of antique shops that attract collectors and casual shoppers alike.
Northwood Meadows State Park provides scenic trails, picnic areas, and a peaceful lake for kayaking and fishing. The town’s economy is bolstered by small businesses and a touch of tourism, yet it retains a quiet, laid-back atmosphere.
The proximity to pristine lakes like Bow Lake and expansive undeveloped lands offers residents and visitors alike a chance to immerse themselves in nature. This abundance of natural spaces makes Northwood an ideal spot for those seeking solitude away from the hustle.
Where is Northwood?
Located in Rockingham County, Northwood straddles Route 4 but manages to maintain a secluded feel amidst its forests and lakes. The town’s seclusion is largely due to the extensive undeveloped lands and the natural barriers formed by the surrounding water bodies.
Travelers can reach Northwood via Route 4, which is known as “Antique Alley” for its numerous antique shops along the way. Despite its accessibility, Northwood’s commitment to preserving its natural environment ensures that it remains a peaceful retreat for those who live there.
2. Deerfield: A Quiet Haven Surrounded by Nature
Deerfield, home to around 4,500 residents, is a quiet haven surrounded by New Hampshire’s natural beauty. Famous for hosting the annual Deerfield Fair, the oldest family fair in New England, the town showcases its agricultural heritage and community spirit.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking through the town’s numerous trails or spend a relaxing day at Pleasant Lake. Agriculture and small businesses form the backbone of Deerfield’s economy, contributing to its rural charm.
Low housing density means properties are spaced out, granting residents privacy and plenty of room to enjoy their surroundings. Natural barriers like dense forests and rolling hills further enhance the town’s serene and secluded atmosphere.
Where is Deerfield?
Nestled in Rockingham County, Deerfield sits comfortably between Manchester and Portsmouth but feels worlds away due to its seclusion. The town is ensconced by forests and hills, providing a natural buffer from the noise and speed of urban areas.
Access to Deerfield is primarily via Route 107 or Route 43, which wind through scenic landscapes before reaching this tranquil community. Its location makes Deerfield an attractive option for those seeking a peaceful retreat without being too distant from city conveniences.
1. Nottingham: Seclusion in the Heart of the Pawtuckaway Mountains
Nottingham, with a population of about 5,000, epitomizes seclusion in the heart of the Pawtuckaway Mountains. The town is home to Pawtuckaway State Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts offering hiking, camping, and water activities on Pawtuckaway Lake.
The park’s expansive woodlands and boulder fields create a picturesque backdrop and endless opportunities for adventure. Nottingham’s economy benefits from tourism drawn by the park, complemented by small local businesses that enhance the town’s quaint character.
The large acre-plus properties common in Nottingham provide residents ample space and privacy, making it an ideal retreat from urban hustle. This combination of vast natural areas and generous property sizes offers a peaceful lifestyle amidst New Hampshire’s stunning landscapes.
Where is Nottingham?
Located in Rockingham County, Nottingham lies nestled within the Pawtuckaway Mountains, reinforcing its secluded nature. The town’s seclusion is bolstered by the extensive woodlands of Pawtuckaway State Park, which acts as a natural barrier from surrounding developments.
Nottingham is accessible via Route 152 or Route 156, which provide scenic routes through forests and rolling terrain. Despite being within driving distance of larger cities like Manchester and Portsmouth, Nottingham maintains a tranquil atmosphere that feels remote and untouched.
