Founded in 1639, Guilford is named after Guildford, England. It is situated on the coast with the Totoket Mountain ridge to the northwest. Neighboring towns include Branford, North Branford, Durham and Madison. Guilford is served by major highways, including I-95, as well as The Shore Line East train which provides service to Branford, East Haven, New Haven and New London. It is also home to American Cruise Lines’ headquarters.
Like many New England towns, Guilford is organized around a town green. The Guilford Green is the center of town activity. In addition to local shops, be sure to check out the Around the Green Historical Walking Tours. Guilford also boasts numerous historic homes from the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries including the Hyland House (1660), Henry Whitfield House (1639), Thomas Griswold House (1774), Medad Stone Tavern (1803) and the Dudley Farm (1840). In fact, Guilford is considered by some to have the third large collection historical homes in New England. Another interesting landmark is the Faulkner Island Lighthouse located off Guilford Harbor. Constructed in 1802 and commissioned by President Thomas Jefferson, it is the second oldest extant lighthouse in Connecticut.
For the outdoor adventurers, try Sachem’s Head Yacht Club or the Westwoods Trails. Sachem’s Head Yacht Club, established in 1896, is a private yacht club on Long Island Sound shoreline near the Thimble Island. It serves an active racing fleet and is a summer base for member families and juniors involved in sailing, swimming and tennis. Westwoods Trails is an extensive trail system featuring caves, lakes, streams, rivers, and interesting rock formations. With 39 miles of trails you can hike, mountain bike, backpack, picnic, or snowshoe (in winter) to your heart’s content.
Between the coastal activities, scenic Totoket Mountain, rich history, local businesses this small New England town has a lot to offer.