On the N.H. ice cream trail: Four standout spots for cooling summer treats
A scoop of chocolate ice cream in a waffle cone at Richardson's Farm in Boscawen.
Amanda Gokee/Globe Staff
Richardson's Farm in Boscawen
This charming ice cream stand serves homemade ice cream and sherbet that's made on the premises. Their secret is making ice cream in small, 10-gallon batches, using New Hampshire heavy cream and milk, according to the farm's website. There's a covered area with picnic tables if you decide to eat at the farm. Be warned! They only accept cash. (
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While you're there:
Just a few minutes down the road from Richardson's Farm is Avaloch Farm Music Institute, a hidden gem offering retreats for musicians and occasional performances that are open to the public on a gorgeous, bucolic property. (
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Jordan's Ice Creamery in Belmont
This ice cream joint can draw a real crowd – patrons are drawn here for the homemade ice cream served in generous quantities. The extensive menu includes a dizzying array of frozen delicacies, such as brownie sundaes, frappes, banana splits, and malts. (
While you're there:
The nearby Knowles Pond in Northfield, N.H., is a delightful spot for a dip on the hotter days of the summer. The water is accessible from a dock on Knowles Pond Road, and there are walking trails that also lead to the water from a parking lot on Rand Road. (
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Sawyer's Dairy Bar in Gilford
When I got ice cream at Sawyer's last summer, my mother was served the biggest portion I have seen to date. It was an overwhelming, and delicious, amount of ice cream. For reference, I believe she ordered a 'small.' Do with that information what you will. (
While you're there:
Weirs Beach in Laconia offers public beach access to Lake Winnipesaukee nearby. Be prepared to meet a lot of bikers if you go during Laconia Bike Week from June 14 through June 22. (
There's indoor and outdoor seating available at Super Secret Ice Cream in Bethlehem, a James Beard finalist in the Outstanding Bakery category.
Amanda Gokee/Globe Staff
Super Secret Ice Cream in Bethlehem
Since rising to James Beard-level fame, this secret appears to be out. And for good reason – the ice cream makes it well worth the trip. The shop promises ice cream made in tiny batches from local dairy and whole ingredients. The website warns that the flavors on offer are changing constantly due to seasonality and direct those curious to their
While you're there:
Bethlehem is a very sweet town with an eminently walkable main street and a few gift shops. It's also home to Rek-Lis Brewing Company, which serves an assortment of locally-brewed beers, pub fare, and, sometimes, live music. A calendar of events is available
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Amanda Gokee can be reached at
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