📍 Location & Geography
Bristol is a charming town located in Grafton County, New Hampshire, United States. It is nestled in the foothills of the White Mountains and is surrounded by scenic beauty. The Pemigewasset River runs through the town, providing a picturesque setting and a variety of recreational opportunities.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Bristol are 43.5945° N latitude and 71.7443° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Bristol is part of the Lakes Region of New Hampshire, a popular tourist destination known for its lakes, mountains, and outdoor activities. The town covers a total area of 22.2 square miles, of which 20.0 square miles is land and 2.2 square miles is water.
👥 Population & Demographics
As of the 2010 census, Bristol had a population of 3,054. The demographic makeup of the town is predominantly white, with a small percentage of other races. The median age of residents is around 43 years, and the gender distribution is fairly balanced.
🏛️ History
Bristol was incorporated in 1819 and was named after Bristol, England. The town was originally a mill town, with industries focused on textiles, lumber, and manufacturing. Over time, Bristol transitioned into a popular tourist destination due to its beautiful natural setting and recreational opportunities.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
Bristol is known for its natural beauty. The town is home to Wellington State Park, the largest freshwater beach in the New Hampshire state park system. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including swimming, fishing, boating, and hiking. The town is also surrounded by the White Mountains, providing stunning views and numerous hiking trails.
🏫 Education
Education in Bristol is administered by the Newfound Area School District. The town is home to Newfound Memorial Middle School and Newfound Regional High School. Bristol also has a public library, the Minot-Sleeper Library, which offers a variety of resources and programs for residents of all ages.
🚧 Transportation
Bristol is served by U.S. Route 3A and New Hampshire Route 104, providing easy access to surrounding areas. The nearest airports are Lebanon Municipal Airport and Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, both of which are within a two-hour drive.
📜 Trivia & Events
Bristol hosts several annual events, including the Newfound Lake Region Association’s Annual Meeting and the Bristol Community Center’s Annual Craft Fair. The town also has a vibrant arts scene, with the Bristol Art Academy offering classes and workshops. One interesting trivia about Bristol is that it was once the home of poet and novelist, Grace Metalious, author of the controversial 1950s novel “Peyton Place.”