Castle Hill on the Crane Estate
Castle Hill on the Crane Estate
4.5
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
About
Experience the grandeur of a seaside estate and its marvelously landscaped grounds, notable for a broad, undulating lawn running down to the shore.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
299 reviews
Excellent
222
Very good
61
Average
8
Poor
4
Terrible
4
PAhomebody
Quakertown, PA163 contributions
Aug 2021
We went to the Crane Estate on a lovely, warm summer day. The first floor was open to the public, and we enjoyed it very much. The design of the house clearly shows how to keep a home cool and comfortable in pre-air conditioning days: the ceilings are very high so hot air rises above the living space, the front and back are quite close together so open doors create constant breezes, and the position at the top of the hill ensures every breath of cool ocean air funnels through the building. The grounds are well maintained, and there's flower gardens with shaded seating in which to relax. Timed admission means you need to make a reservation in advance.
Written August 10, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
smac
1 contribution
May 2022
We took a guided tour of the estate which was lovely. The tour was lead by a house staff member in character, which he did a great job at! Beautiful estate with beautiful views and the lawn, while a bit of a hike, is worth it to the casino and the ocean view at the end. My only complaint was that we walked the half-mile to the ocean which includes stairs at the casino to go down one of the steep hills. Upon our return, there was a play rehearing at the casino area and we were told we could not use the stairs to go up. Instead, we were directed to a very steep, grassy hill that we would need to climb to get back to the house. I broke my kneecap two years ago, so this was difficult but the only available option. As a paying customer, I would have liked to have been warned about this prior to going out as far as we did. The individual from the play who was directing tourists seemed annoyed that we were there and was yelling at everyone that they couldn't use the stairs, which didn't make sense as that is how we got there in the first place. Upon returning to the house, we informed the women at the desk of what was going on but they just confirmed that it was a play rehearsing for an event later that night. We told them they might want to warn their patrons, especially if they might not be up for hiking up a hill...
Written June 5, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Colleen C
Middleton, WI297 contributions
Oct 2021
The Crane Estate is beautiful inside and out, but we were disappointed that for the cost of the ticket, you still had to purchase additional tours to be able to see the rooms upstairs. The grounds are awesome, though, and we really enjoyed walking around and seeing everything. We also had a stunning, clear day, which made the views even that much better. One of the more interesting points to the stop, however, was that on that day, the second room of the gift shop was just being opened to the public, and I was the very first person to see it. While this in and of itself was fun, it was made even better because the gal in the gift shop that day gave us the history of the rooms we were now able to see as a result and get a little bit more of the story of the estate. She really was the icing on the cake for this stop.
Written July 3, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Greg S
Rock Hill, South Carolina, United States53 contributions
Jul 2021
We were supposed to see Castle Hill one day earlier, but our reservation was cancelled because of a movie shoot there. Luckily, we had an extra day left in our vacation to move it to the next day. The problem was, the movie crew was still there. The staff was noticeably upset that the large 18 wheelers, gear and movie trucks were still parked outside at 10am the next morning with people running in and out carrying props, furniture, plants and stuff. One employee told me they were supposed to be gone hours ago, and he was very apologetic. So, in short we saw the house in chaos. It was not a great tour at all, and that $10 you pay per person, only gets you the bottom floor. It's extra to see other floors, or to have a guide. It honestly seemed like no one even knew we were there, even though the house was full of people. It was an odd experience, especially because we'd already seen all the big Newport mansions and they were so organized, attentive, informative, and friendly to visitors. This felt like visiting your friends on a day they're moving out of their house. On the other hand, the grounds, gardens and other places there are gorgeous. It was a beautiful day and the grounds are well worth seeing, even if there's not much to the house. (At least on the ground floor). No, they didn't tell me what movie they were shooting, but I did ask. We also wanted to be there to see where a few scenes from Little Women were shot a few years ago. Which we did find, and that was cool too.
Written July 30, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
ronk1000
Charlotte, NC302 contributions
Jul 2022
Loved that the staff was in costume as they guided us through the mansion and spoke in the dialogue of the times. The family and mansion history were facinating; Views were phenomenal; Bathrooms exceeded our expectations. We felt as though we were back in England at one of the old country estates.
The one downside was that it was unseasonably warm (89F) and most of the rooms had closed windows and no fans. Very uncomfortable. Surprised that windows weren't open to enjoy a breeze like the originally family enjoyed.
The one downside was that it was unseasonably warm (89F) and most of the rooms had closed windows and no fans. Very uncomfortable. Surprised that windows weren't open to enjoy a breeze like the originally family enjoyed.
Written August 4, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Dr. Steve B
Nanticoke, PA232 contributions
Aug 2022 • Couples
We did not notice this on Trip Advisor or different publications, but we are so happy a fellow traveler told us about the Crane Estate. Known for originally designing bathrooms, the Crane family has a fascinating history, and their great house is amazing and loaded with beautifully designed bathrooms. The tours are so creative. We selected the basic tour of the house plus history of the family. We got to select a card that described an historic guest who visited the Cranes and portrayed that guest on the tour. What a great way to experience the house and the family. The maids and butlers (tour guides) all remain in character and are dressed in period clothes. Our butler was dressed in a tuxedo. When the tour concluded, we were treated to a beverage (a non-alcoholic drink served in a champagne glass on a silver tray) while we got to ask questions to our docent as he stepped out of character. This was a classy, refined, and very enjoyable experience. Don’t miss the gift shop, and ask about the relationship of Chevy Chase to the Cranes.
Written August 18, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
PaTraveller40
Philadelphia, PA5 contributions
Aug 2021
The estate and grounds are well worth a visit. However, It's a bit pricey in my opinion
at $10 per out of state adult. Plus, if you want to see more than the first floor of the mansion, you have to join a tour and pay quite a bit more. Still, the grounds and history were really interesting, impressive, and unique. A super nice employee approached us and answered our many questions about the estate and family history. If you are in the area and it's a nice day, do visit. BTW, Crane Beach which is nearby, requires an appointment and a hefty fee, although it looks beautiful.
at $10 per out of state adult. Plus, if you want to see more than the first floor of the mansion, you have to join a tour and pay quite a bit more. Still, the grounds and history were really interesting, impressive, and unique. A super nice employee approached us and answered our many questions about the estate and family history. If you are in the area and it's a nice day, do visit. BTW, Crane Beach which is nearby, requires an appointment and a hefty fee, although it looks beautiful.
Written August 21, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Hunter.oz@comcast.net
Sutton, MA80 contributions
Jun 2022
We took the Highlights of the Hill tour. Really nice tour. Vicki our driver is very good. Gave us a brief overview before driving off in her brand new electric vehicle cart. She gave us plenty of information on the various spots-the rose garden, the beach area, a great view from the hill overlooking Crane's Beach and Plum Island. Vickie is very knowledgeable about the estate and the general area. She gave us a little over 60 minutes and it was well worth it. And she even gave us restaurant recommendations that saved up guessing about where to eat...CK Pearl in Essex which was 10 minutes away.
Written July 3, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Ashley K
Twentynine Palms, CA33 contributions
Oct 2022 • Couples
NO DOGS! Even if they stay in thr car, they do not allow dogs on the property period. I understand they are a wildlife conservation group, but a dog in a car shouldn't be a problem. We didn't even make it past the front gate since our dogs were sitting in the back seat.
Written October 4, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Kristina S
Ashland, MA16 contributions
Jul 2022 • Family
Beautiful place, but staff is rude and unwelcoming. Kristina completely ruined our day by training us where we can and can't go. Complaining to us how other visitors vandalized her signs, leaving their cars on the Crane's parking lot, but going on the beach to swim and braking rules. Instead of calm relaxing weekend we just got stress and even couldn't visit the house, bucause they just forgot to remove the sigh saying the house is closed today....
Written July 2, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
dhwheatl
omaha ne42 contributions
Going to a wedding there August 2020. Besides Boston, what would be a good place to stay at that’s close by?
downeast
Maine9 contributions
It depends on your budget. We have stayed at The Vista in Glooucester. Comfortable rooms, reasonable rates, continental breakfast, overlooking Good Harbor Beach, heated pool and about 30 minutes from Castle Hill. Regular rooms and rooms with kitchenettes. Lots of restaurants nearby. Very clean.
I am envious that you are attending a wedding at Castle Hill!
dianabrewer86
Tustin, CA1 contribution
Can you take a tour from Boston to this Estate? We will be staying in Downtown Boston visiting from California .
tigerseye
Washington DC, DC57 contributions
No private or public tour companies offer trips from Boston to Ipswich to see that estate to my knowledge. A car rental is your best bet. I still highly recommend a thorough visit in more pleasant weather which could easily take a few hours--so very much to do and see in the area and plenty of great restaurants as well in Ipswich, Gloucester and Rockport that a day car rental is well worth the investment. The hours for tours of the house and estate vary according to season, so make sure to visit the Castle Hill on the Crane Estate website.
Cathy F
CT61 contributions
Is the "Guest of the Cranes" tour, Handicap Accessible. Does it have an Elevator or are their stairs to negotiate. Can only the first floor be toured? Is their a video for those who can't reach the second floor? Thank You.
Erwizard
Saint Louis, MO43 contributions
Hi Cathy. I went for the yoga experience, but I don't recall seeing elevators. I had to walk up steps to get into the castle but I would be shocked if they had no handicap accessible amenities. Google "thetrustees" and visit their website. They may say something on there. Sorry I couldn't be more help.
Richie
Ansonia, CT646 contributions
Hi, Richie. What would you like to know about this attraction?
Hi, What are the days and hours for a tour? The website is confusing? Is it only sat-sun in Mau for a tour? Thanks, Richie
dangregory31
Westford, MA59 contributions
yes, the hours posted are accurate.
There are limited times and days to visit, but you can drive out to this place most days and drive through the estate grounds, get out and walk around or just go siteseeing as a hike.
screennamePlymouth
plymouth6 contributions
Does Castle Hill have any holiday festivities scheduled for this year?
Rgon11
Ipswich, MA13 contributions
Christmas festivities on 12/4 &. 12/5 this year. Great event.Very festive even if you are a grump.
Rickie D
Bowmanville260 contributions
I am travelling with my little dog are they allowed on the grounds or trails
TheTrustees
Massachusetts1 contribution
Hi Rickie - apologies for the delay in replying. I'm afraid dogs are not allowed at Castle Hill. They can walk on the beach, but only during our "off season," which is October through April.
Castle Hill on the Crane Estate (Ipswich) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Castle Hill on the Crane Estate
- Castle Hill on the Crane Estate is open:
- Sun - Sat 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Hotels near Castle Hill on the Crane Estate:
- (0.07 mi) The Inn At Castle Hill On The Crane Estate
- (3.59 mi) Shea's Riverside Inn & Motel
- (8.14 mi) Beech Tree B&B
- (2.96 mi) Ipswich Inn Bed and Breakfast
- (8.52 mi) Changing Tides Bed and Breakfast
- Restaurants near Castle Hill on the Crane Estate:
- (3.07 mi) Choate Bridge Restaurant
- (8.20 mi) Duckworth's Gloucester
- (7.55 mi) Sugar Magnolias
- (8.69 mi) Depot Diner
- (8.37 mi) Roy Moore Lobster Co