Travel Guide

Take In the Scenic Nature at an Upper Valley Golf Club

Posted on by Ben Rueter

A women swinging a golf club at a Norwich golf course.No matter where you travel, chances are you will try to squeeze in a few rounds of golf where you can get it. Otherwise, you probably wouldn’t be reading this. We are here to tell you that The Norwich Inn is close to an outstanding golf course for you to visit.

A Great Golf Course is not far away Near Norwich

So whether you are touring Dartmouth College or some of the breweries in the area, you won’t be far from a green. Visit or more to explore these golf courses’ unforgettable scenes and views.

Montcalm Golf Club

This course offers fantastic views that you might not get to see anywhere else in the Upper Valley. Over the 18-holes, you can see mountains, hills, valleys, and lakes as you set up for your drive.

Green Mountain National Golf Course

This is another awe-inspiring golf course in Vermont. 18-holes with an expansive view of the surrounding nature. The course is nestled away in the mountains, so you can expect to be challenged by varied terrains and the elevation change. 

Eastman Golf Links

This is a fantastic choice for golf enthusiasts and newcomers to the game. If it’s your first time, guests are given a free full-color course yardage guide and offered the free Eastman Golf App. The course covers 18-holes that provide enough challenge for a seasoned golf player or a newcomer to the sport. It’s absolutely a fun and enjoyable course to spend the day on.

You Won’t Miss Tee Time. We’re Close to an Upper Valley Golf Club!

There’s nothing worse for your golf game than running late to your tee time. The good thing is that an Upper Valley golf course is near The Norwich Inn. You’ll be able to get a good night’s sleep thanks to our spacious rooms and a dedicated staff. You’ll wake up recharged and ready to play your best golf game in years. Give us a call today at 802-649-1143 to learn more about our inn (or check availability online).

Traveler’s Guide to Vermont Leaf Peeping in the Upper Valley

Posted on by Ben Rueter

Vermont is up there for states that are not to be missed once autumn rolls around. At The Norwich Inn, we get to see this every year, so we know a thing or two about where to find the best locations to snap a photo or gaze at the fall foliage. We’ve made a simple guide for getting the most out of Vermont leaf peeping this autumn.

Vermont Leaf Peeping To-Dos

  • Don’t come too late! Peak colors fade out by the time October ends. So look to book with us in September or early October.
  • The first thing you’ll want to do is decide if you plan to walk, drive, or paddle. There’s no wrong answer, by the way.
  • Rent an ATV. ATV Vermont is nearby, and you can race to some of the best areas to snap pictures before anyone else has a chance. 
  • If an ATV is too fast for you, take things slow with a horse-drawn ride. Kedron Valley Stables is your best option.
  • Bring your mountain bike or rent one at Suicide Six. In addition, the Suicide Six trails are free to use.
  • Go ahead and walk at your own pace. Vermont has some fantastic hiking trails. For starters, you can get hiking on the famous Appalachian Trail or try the Gile Mountain Trail.
  • Take a breezy tour through Dartmouth College’s campus if you are interested in an urban stroll to see the fall colors.
  • If you want to see it all, might we suggest booking a reservation for a hot air balloon ride? Quechee Balloon Rides LC can take you up high for a once-in-a-lifetime view. 
  • Before you head out, check in with the Vermont Fall Foliage Reports. You’ll save some time and get the most up-to-date information on when to see the peak colors in the area.
  • Vermont is known for having historic and rustic covered bridges. It also happens to be a great place to pull over and shoot some photos.

When the Sun Sets Spend the Night at The Norwich Inn

After you finish your Vermont leaf peeping adventure, head back to The Norwich Inn for award-winning craft beer and casual dining. The Norwich Inn’s history dates back to 1797, which is why you can trust us about all the best ways to enjoy Vermont leaf peeping this autumn in the Upper Valley. Give us a call today at 802-649-1143 to learn more about our inn (or check availability online).

5 Summertime Outdoor Activities in the Upper Valley, Vermont

Posted on by Ben Rueter

A forest similar to one near Norwich, Vermont, with a barn in the distance. Ideally this is one of Vermont's outdoor activities.

5 Summertime Outdoor Activities in the Upper Valley, Vermont

Summertime is the best time to get outdoors and see what hides in the Upper Valley. The Norwich Inn knows this best. We hope you will soon discover what outdoor activities Vermont has in store for you this summer.

Here are five things to get you on your journey.

Tour Dartmouth College

The Norwich Inn is just a little over one mile to the center of campus, making it a stroll during your visit. Need another reason to visit this historical institution? We’re providing a College Visit Package, including a $25 dining credit at the Inn and a $25 gift card to the Dartmouth Coop.

Learn About the Upper Valley’s Nature

Montshire Museum of Science has more than 100-acres that you and your family can explore and learn about while staying in the Upper Valley. See a gorgeous view of the Connecticut River or trek the Planet Walk.

Explore Vermont’s Covered Bridges

Bridges are scattered all over the state, so you will probably drive and walk under one before you know it. But, if you haven’t seen one yet, try swinging by the Taftsville Covered Bridge. It’s near Woodstock and sits above the Ottauquechee River. It’s also the oldest covered bridge in Vermont.

Shop at the Norwich Farmers’ Market

Farmers’ markets are a phenomenal way to meet new people, try some local food flavors, and get inspired to cook something delicious. Norwich, Vermont’s farmers’ market also features live music and crafts.

Go on an Adventure With Hanover Adventure Tours

Hanover Adventure Tours will prepare you and whoever else you bring with you for, as you can guess, an adventure through the Upper Valley. The business touts electric bike rentals, tours via e-bike, hiking tours, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, hostel accommodations, and private outdoor event spaces. 

Let Norwich Inn Help You Get Outdoors This Summer

The Norwich Inn is the best place to start exploring Vermont’s scenic outdoors and discover new activities. From hiking, kayaking, biking, The Norwich Inn is a great place to start your outdoor exploration of Vermont. Please give us a call today at 802-649-1143 (or check availability online) to escape into Vermont’s Upper Valley.

The Norwich Inn Invests in On-Site Restaurant | Vermont Returns to “Normalcy”

Posted on by Ben Rueter

 

The Norwich Inn Invests in On-Site Restaurant | Vermont Returns to “Normalcy”

As Vermont’s Upper Valley returns to a whole new level of “normalcy,” it’s important to note that the region’s oldest establishment, The Norwich Inn, has invested in its on-site restaurant and re-upped its affiliation with King Arthur Baking Company and the Vermont Nanobrewery Festival. With dining and travel restrictions lifted here in New England, the inn finally feels like its old self—with a twist!

Photo of The Norwich Inn's Outdoor Dining Area, Home to One of the Best Restaurants in Norwich, VT.Expanded, Renovated Outdoor Dining

While The Norwich Inn still exudes the “same old” sophistication, charm, and historical significance, the outdoor patio recently underwent a comprehensive overhaul, including an expansion and renovation. After all, we “never waste a crisis” to improve. You’ll notice several new features, including standing heaters, an oversized canopy, rope lights, new flooring, and enhanced landscaping. We couldn’t think of a better place in the Upper Valley to enjoy a plate of seared salmon (or beer-battered haddock) and a tall Whistling Pig Red Ale.

The Newhart Room’s Interior Transformation

Photo of the Newhart Room, a Newly-Renovated Restaurant in Norwich, VT.

Don’t forget about the most recent interior transformation of the Newhart Room (as pictured), a dazzling social area tailor-made for late-night drinks, an early-afternoon bite, or a small group gathering. Whether you aim to watch the Patriots finish a game-winning drive or sample an array of cocktails with your girlfriends, you’ll feel at home in the Newhart Room—named after the popular TV show, “Newhart.”

King Arthur Baking Company Resumes Live Classes

King Arthur Baking Company has officially resumed live classes as of June 21, 2021. It’s been a long time coming! And, much to everyone’s delight, The Norwich Inn is once again offering King Arthur packages, including the “Welcome Back Package,” featuring 20 percent off rates, a complimentary pint, a free shuttle to the bakery, and so much more!

Vermont Nanofest Returns

Raise a glass to the sky because the Vermont Nanobrewery Festival returns on August 21, 2021. The Norwich Inn is the “Nanofest’s” Official Lodging Sponsor. Thus, we’re offering an outrageous one-night Nanofest package, including free entry, a deluxe overnight stay, a complimentary pint, a souvenir tasting glass, a block of Whistling Pig Ale Cheddar, a take-home 22-ounce bottle of beer, and more!

This summer aims to be one for the ages, so please don’t hesitate to book a well-deserved vacation package before availability runs out. Browse through our specials and packages, or give us a call today at 802-649-1143. Cheers!

Jasper Murdock Ales: The Vermont Beer Trail Starts in Norwich

Posted on by Ben Rueter

Jasper Murdock Ales: The Vermont Beer Trail Starts in Norwich

Jasper Murdock Ales

There’s no denying that Vermont is home to some of North America’s richest craft beer history and finest brewing facilities. After all, the birthplace of the modern-day “hazy IPA” (often referred to as the New England-style IPA) is approximately 80 miles northwest of Norwich in the rolling hills of Stowe. Unbeknownst to many, Norwich’s historic, picturesque town is home to one of the longest-standing breweries on the Vermont beer trail: Jasper Murdock Ales, an Upper Valley staple that dates back to 1993.

A Unique Slice of Upper Valley History

Jasper Murdock Ales on the BarAccording to the Brewers Association, Vermont boasts the most breweries per capita in America. We take craft beer seriously—and you should too. The self-guided Vermont beer trail, which we cover in more detail below, starts and finishes at The Norwich Inn. It’s not often that you stumble upon a 28-year-old brewery located inside of a 1797 inn that has hosted the likes of Dr. Seuss and President James Monroe.

Today, travelers can stroll into this classic Irish pub for a tall pint, a 22-ounce bottle to-go, or even a growler fill. The pub has retained its original charm, thanks to its rich mahogany bar, old-timey photography, and Irish-green accents.

Jasper Murdock Ales: The Legacy Continues

Jasper Murdock Ales in Front of a Fireplace

What began as a modest venture that only produced five-gallon jugs of English-style ales has blossomed into one of the proudest breweries in New England. The team now concocts 125-gallon batches covering nearly beer style, ranging from smile-inducing cream ales to trendy IPLs and classic Irish reds.

Jasper Murdock’s premier beer remains the Whistling Pig Red Ale, a multi-generational recipe that’s a delicious ode to the classic Irish reds that pre-date the new-age Vermont brewery scene. Recent hits include the genre-bending Schwarzpils, the aptly-named Mash Up, and the crowd-pleasing N2B Cream Ale, a proclaimed “lawnmower beer.”

A Self-Guided Journey on the Vermont Beer Trail

There’s no better reason to visit the Upper Valley this August than the annual Vermont NanoFest, the region’s premier dabbler. At the NanoFest, grinning beer enthusiasts can taste-test many of the state’s top-rated breweries, which is a welcomed alternative to a lengthy drive on the Vermont beer trail. Participants include Red Clover Ale Co., Green Empire Brewing, and Upper Pass Brewing Company. We also urge thirsty beer nerds to visit some of the area’s top-rated taprooms in White River Junction, Bridgewater Corners, and beyond. Use this Vermont brewery bucket list as your trail guide.

To book a long-awaited craft beer-inspired escape to Norwich, please give us a call today at 802-649-1143 (or check availability online).

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.