The Inn at Hancock, the oldest continuously operating inn in New Hampshire, is set to begin its next chapter next month following a comprehensive three-year restoration. Originally established in 1789 as a coaching inn serving travelers along the region’s colonial trade routes, the property has long held a meaningful place in the cultural and historical fabric of the Monadnock Region. Its latest transformation positions it as a refined rural retreat designed for a new generation of luxury travelers.
A Storied Landmark Reimagined
The restoration was guided by Creative Director Kerri Landry, whose background spans more than 25 years in luxury fashion and hospitality. Her vision for the Inn centers on creating a deeply layered environment that reflects the people, places, and experiences that have shaped her perspective. The result is a property that honors its heritage while introducing a design language defined by personality, texture, and a sense of discovery.
Throughout the Inn, interiors are approached with a maximalist sensibility grounded in tradition. Bold color palettes, distinctive patterns, and varied materials are used to create spaces that feel expressive and cohesive. Bespoke wallpapers, painted ceilings, and richly upholstered furnishings contribute to an atmosphere that is visually dynamic while remaining rooted in a broader historical narrative. Carefully selected antiques sit alongside custom pieces and global influences, allowing each room to convey its own identity while remaining connected to the overall vision.
Distinctive Suites, Individual Narratives
The Inn features 15 individually designed suites, each with its own distinct character and curated story. No two accommodations are alike, with design influences ranging from French country aesthetics to references drawn from the Indian Raj. Signature spaces such as the “Masala Room” highlight the property’s embrace of vivid color and cultural inspiration, while other suites present a more understated interpretation of country living.
All guest rooms are appointed with modern en suite baths and high-end amenities, including luxury linens by Frette and bath products from Floris London. Additional features include fresh florals, nightly turndown service, and concierge assistance, ensuring a level of service aligned with contemporary luxury expectations. Select suites also offer fireplaces and deep soaking tubs, further enhancing the residential feel of the accommodations.
The accommodations are categorized into three primary suite types, each offering a distinct experience. The Manor Suites provide expansive layouts with Anglo-American design elements, including antique Chippendale sofas and oak refectory tables. The Historic Suites draw from global travel influences, blending French country charm with vivid textiles and expressive wall coverings. The Darling Suites offer a more intimate setting, designed for quiet escapes and romantic stays, with richly detailed interiors that invite immersion.
A Culinary Program Rooted in Craft
Complementing the accommodations is a comprehensive culinary program led by Executive Chef Craig Hastings. The Inn’s food and beverage offerings are rooted in classic French and continental cuisine, emphasizing seasonal ingredients and regional sourcing.
The Restaurant serves as the Inn’s signature dining venue, offering multiple environments within a single concept. The Formal Room, defined by Georgian paneling and an intimate scale, is dedicated to seasonal tasting menus. The Garden Room introduces a lighter atmosphere, framed by expansive windows and floral design elements. The Reading Room, accented with white-and-gold tones and curated collections of literary works, provides an additional setting for prix fixe menus and the weekly Library Dining Series.
PINKS Lounge offers a more relaxed dining experience, inspired by traditional hunt culture and its iconic red coats. The space opens onto the Garden Terrace, where guests can dine alfresco during warmer months. The menu features an à la carte grill selection alongside seasonal offerings, with additional programming that includes fire pit gatherings, s’mores, and casual dining events such as burger and pizza nights, as well as weekend donuts. The Hunt Bar & Scullery provides a convivial setting for cocktails and light fare, designed for both pre-dinner drinks and informal evening gatherings.
A Year-Round Destination in the Monadnock Region
Beyond the property, The Inn at Hancock is positioned within the Monadnock Region, an area long associated with artists, writers, and intellectuals drawn to its forests, lakes, and contemplative pace. Figures such as Mark Twain and Henry David Thoreau were among those who found inspiration here, shaping a legacy that continues to define the region.
The Inn provides access to a wide range of year-round activities that reflect the character of the landscape. Outdoor pursuits include fly fishing, hiking, skiing, sailing, and cycling, as well as upland game hunting and antiquing. Its proximity to both Crotched Mountain and Mount Monadnock offers guests convenient access to both recreational and scenic experiences. The concierge team curates tailored itineraries through trusted regional partners, ensuring each stay reflects the surrounding environment and the guest’s individual interests.
Looking ahead, the reopening of The Inn at Hancock is part of a broader effort to revitalize the surrounding part of New England. Landry and her team are developing a series of complementary businesses in nearby Peterborough, including a restaurant and wine bar, an antique shop, a bakery and coffee shop, a prepared foods market, and additional retail and residential offerings. These initiatives are designed to enrich the local community while enhancing the region’s appeal as a destination.
As it reopens, The Inn at Hancock brings together history, design, and hospitality in a cohesive and forward-looking way. The property remains grounded in its origins while presenting a contemporary vision of luxury travel, defined by thoughtful detail, immersive design, and a strong sense of place.
For more information, visit innathancock.com.