If you want a glimpse into what aristocratic life was like in the early 1900s, a trip to Castle Hill on the Crane Estate in Ipswich, MA is a must.
This seaside estate, located in the coastal town of Ipswich, has a rich history dating back to the 1600’s. The Estate is made up of 3 unique properties; Castle Hill, Crane Beach and the Crane Wildlife Refuge. Originally, the land was used by the Agawam tribe but was transferred to the English settlers in 1635. Over the years, the property was sold numerous times.
In 1910, Chicago industrialist Richard T. Crane, Jr. purchased the land and built an talian-style villa on top of the hill. In 1928, the Italian villa was replaced with the English style mansion that stands today. Mr. Crane and his wife Florence frequently entertained fellow aristocrats from Chicago in this luxurious summer playhouse.
Castle Hill is the centerpiece of the Crane Estate with its beautifully designed landscapes, meticulously groomed grounds and incredible scenery. From the moment you arrive, you will feel the grandeur as you enter through the gate and continue up the long winding drive. Once you reach the main parking lot, you will get your first glimpse of the stunning views of the Great Marsh.
The Great House
At the top of the hill, sits the “Great House”, a 59-room mansion, built in 1928 by renowned Chicago architect David Adler. The Great House replaced the original Italian-style stucco villa because Mrs. Crane did not feel it was suitable for entertaining. True to its name, the new structure is really impressive, offering amazing views of the ocean and surrounding landscape.
The Great House showcases a mix of architectural styles, blending Colonial Revival and Arts and Crafts influences. According to Architectural Digest, some key furnishings in the Great House are the original pieces which have been donated by the descendants of the Crane family.
Relax on the Grand Alleé
The Great House provides an elegant backdrop to its famous Grand Alleé – the majestic rolling lawn that stretches half a mile to the bluffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Its design is inspired by the Cypress Allée at the Boboli Gardens in Florence and gives the illusion that it is longer than it really is.
In the middle lies the “Casino Complex”, a series of housing structures intentionally hidden so there is a clear view to the ocean.
The Grand Allée is the heartbeat of the property and the perfect place to picnic, relax or just roam. You can even play a games or take one of the scheduled Yoga classes. It’s not uncommon to find kids rolling down the lawn and it’s a popular sledding spot.
Roam the Grounds
Castle Hill’s 165 acres offers great places to explore, including four miles of hiking and walking trails. You can explore on your own or book one of the many events offered.
On our visit we strolled to the end of the Grand Allée and picked up the trail on the left. This path took us down a sandy path to Steep Hill Beach, uncovering stunning views of Ipswich Bay, Plum Island and the New England coastline. We continued along the shore of Steep Hill Beach where we saw some pieces of a ship wreak. On the beach, we trekked through the white sandy dunes and across the salt marsh. Our hike finished up by heading up a fairly steep hill to the Rose Garden and through the beautiful Italian Garden. All-in-all it was a great trail to experience the diverse landscapes at Castle Hill and I did not find it too strenuous.
Explore the Gardens
The gardens at Castle Hill are beautifully designed and should not be missed if you are visiting during the growing season.
The Italian Garden is inspired by Italian Renaissance design and provides a sense of gradeaur and elegance. It features terraced levels, symmetrically arranged plantings, and decorative elements such as fountains and statues.
The Rose Garden showcases a variety of stunning roses and other beautiful flowers.
Attend Castle Hill Events
At Castle Hill, there is really something for everyone and each season provides a new experience. While enjoyed all year round, Castle Hill is especially active in summer months.
The summer Picnic Concert series runs each Thursday where a variety of bands play live music while spectators picnic on the Grand Allée overlooking Crane Beach.
Each August, the estate steps back in time with its annual Roaring Twenties Lawn Party. This is when everyone gets decked out in period attire and comes to experience what life might have been at Castle Hill during its hey-day.
In October, The Trustees partner with the Vintage Sports Car Club of America for the Vintage Car Climb where you can watch dozens of pre-war automobiles race up the hill.
During the holidays, each room in the seaside mansion is all decked out with decorations inspired from the Crane Family travel adventures from around the world. Bring the family to enjoy freshly baked cookies and hot chocolate while you enjoy the holiday decorations.
There is also a Christmas Tea event where you can enjoy teas and other delectable treats with friends or family.
With so many fun things to do, you’ll be planning your next visit before you even leave your first so be prepared!
Movies Filmed at Castle Hill
It’s not surprising Castle Hill has been featured in several popular movies – the grounds and mansion are truly amazing! Movies have been filmed at Castle Hill and the Crane Estate for a long time. If fact, the “Thomas Crown Affair”, starring Steve McQueen, was filmed there in 1967.
In 1987, Castle Hill made appearances in the “Witches of Eastwick” and “Flowers in the Attic”. “Ghosts of Girlfriends Past” (2009) was filmed inside and outside the mansion and the property appeared in scenes of “The Equalizer” (2014) and “Little Women” (2019). Amazing Race 17 even began both the season with contestants standing on the Grand Allée. How cool is that to see a place you visited featured in a movie!
The Chevy Chase Connection
And speaking of movies…Chevy Chase, the well-known actor and comedian, used to vacation at Castle Hill when he was a child. Chase’ mother, Cathalene Parker was adopted by Cornelius Vanderbilt Crane. She took the name Catherine Crane and went on to marry Edward Tinsley “Ned” Chase. Chevy Chase was born “Cornelius Crane Chase”. The nickname “Chevy” was given to him by his grandmother after the medieval English ballad “The Ballad of Chevy Chase”.
Take a Tour
There are several tours that you can join to learn all about this magnificent mansion and it’s grounds. The “Guest of the Crane” tour will truly make you feel like it’s 1929 and you’re visiting the Crane family. You’ll be greeted by staff dressed in period attire and will be taken on a tour through the house where you can see how they lived. Explore the grounds in the comfort of an electric cart on the “Highlights on the Hill” tour or climb to the rooftop to see panoramic views with the “Cupola with a View” tour.
Most tours run approximately 50-60 minutes and tickets can be purchased in advance, or first-come-first-serve on property.
Planning your visit
Plan on spending at least 2-3 hours to explore the mansion and grounds and about 6 hours if you will also spend time at Crane Beach (Additional Parking fee required). With so much to do in the Ipswich area, consider staying at the Inn at Castle Hill, a lovely Bed & Breakfast on the property.
Castle Hill Hours
The Great House is typically open for tours June through October (Tuesday through Saturday, and holiday Mondays), from 10am-4pm. April, May and November the Great House is open Weekends and Holidays only. The grounds, gardens, and trails are open daily, year round from 9am-5pm February – October and 9am-4pm November – January.
It is always a good idea to check the Trustees of Reservations website for updated information on hours and admission rates or to see the see the extensive schedule of events and tours.
Please note that no dogs are allowed on the properties.
Parking Fees
Admission is free at Castle Hill for Trustee members and $10 per adult and $5 for children. The cost for tours varies and includes parking. Advance passes are not required but are definitely recommended as it will guarantee admission for the day you choose. This will eliminate any disappointment when you show up and learn admission is sold out – something which has happened to me before and is typical in the nice weather.
The Castle Hill parking pass allows you to visit the historic grounds and gardens only. If you plan to visit Crane Beach, you will also need to purchase a Crane Beach Parking pass.
The Bottom Line
Castle Hill on the Crane Estate is a must to visit if you will be in the Ipswich or North Shore area. Be sure to plan to spend a few hours exploring this magnificent property and book one of the fantastic tours to get the inside scoop on the life of the Cranes.
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