Strafford County, New Hampshire is located in the southeastern corner of the state and is home to an estimated population of 122,000 people. The county seat is the city of Dover, which serves as the economic and cultural hub of the county. According to sportingology.com, the county was named after William Strafford, a colonial governor of Massachusetts and New Hampshire in the late 17th century.
The area is known for its rolling hills and picturesque scenery, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. There are plenty of activities to enjoy throughout Strafford County such as hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking, camping, and more.
The region has a rich history dating back to colonial times when it was part of Massachusetts. Today, there are several historic sites throughout Strafford County that visitors can explore including Fort Foster in Dover and Rollinsford’s Maple Street Cemetery.
There are plenty of attractions to visit in Strafford County as well including the Children’s Museum of New Hampshire in Dover and Odiorne State Park near Rye Beach. Other notable attractions include Prescott Park in Portsmouth and Strawbery Banke Museum in Portsmouth.
Famous people from Strafford County include former President Franklin Pierce who was born here; poet Robert Frost whose family had a farm here; writer John Irving who grew up here; actor Adam Sandler who attended college here; astronaut Alan Shepard who was born here; singer-songwriter Jewel Kilcher who grew up here; musician Tom Rush who lived here for many years; actor Hugh Jackman who attended college here; actress Elizabeth Banks who attended college here; and entrepreneur Elon Musk whose parents had a house here during his childhood years.
No matter what you’re looking for whether it’s outdoor adventure or cultural attractions you can find something interesting to do in Strafford County.
Climate and weather in Strafford County, New Hampshire
According to liuxers.com, the climate in Strafford County, New Hampshire is generally mild and pleasant. Summers are usually warm and humid while winters are cold and snowy. The average temperature in the summer months ranges from the mid-60s to the low-80s, while winter temperatures range from the high-teens to the low-30s.
Rainfall is plentiful throughout the year with an average of about 43 inches per year. Snowfall can be quite heavy during the winter months with an average of about 57 inches per year.
The area experiences all four seasons with each one offering its own unique beauty. In spring, fields and forests burst into bloom as wildflowers cover the landscape in vibrant colors. Summer brings hot days perfect for swimming or relaxing on a beach along one of New Hampshire’s many lakes or ponds. In autumn, foliage turns brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow as trees celebrate their last hurrah before winter sets in. Winter brings plenty of snow perfect for skiing or snowshoeing through the woods or building a snowman in your backyard.
Strafford County has a pleasant climate that makes it a great destination to visit any time of year.
Transportation in Strafford County, New Hampshire
Strafford County, New Hampshire is served by a variety of transportation options. The area is accessible by road, rail, sea, and air.
Roads in the county are well-maintained and provide easy access to nearby towns and cities. The New Hampshire Turnpike runs through the northern part of the county and provides a direct route to Boston in the south and Portland in the north. Other major highways include Interstate 95, US Route 4, New Hampshire Route 16, and New Hampshire Route 11.
The Amtrak Downeaster train service runs through Strafford County with stops at Dover Station and Rochester Station. This service offers convenient access to Boston in the south as well as Portland in the north.
The ports of Portsmouth and Rochester provide access to sea travel for both passengers and freight. The ports are served by a variety of cruise lines including Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, and Princess Cruises.
Air travel is available through Manchester-Boston Regional Airport which is located approximately 45 minutes from Strafford County. This airport offers daily domestic flights as well as international connections to Canada, Mexico, Europe, Asia Pacific Rim countries, South America & Central America countries.
Strafford County has an excellent transportation network that makes it easy for residents or visitors to get around.
Cities and towns in Strafford County, New Hampshire
According to COUNTRYAAH, Strafford County, New Hampshire is home to a variety of cities and towns. The county seat is Dover, which is the largest city in the county and home to the University of New Hampshire. Other cities in the county include Somersworth, Rochester, and Durham.
Somersworth is located on the Salmon Falls River and is home to a variety of businesses including manufacturing companies, restaurants, retail stores, and medical facilities. Rochester is situated along the Cocheco River and has a rich history as an industrial center for paper mills. Durham is home to UNH’s main campus as well as Wentworth-Douglass Hospital.
The towns of Strafford County include Barrington, Farmington, Milton, Middleton, Rollinsford, Strafford, Wakefield and Wolfeboro. These towns each have their own unique charm with historic homes and buildings as well as small businesses like antique shops or artisanal craft stores.
Strafford County has a wonderful variety of cities and towns that offer something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a vibrant city life or peaceful rural living there’s something here for everyone to enjoy.