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Hampton, NH

Frequently asked questions

Hampton, NH

Hampton is a town in Rockingham County, New Hampshire, United States. The population was 16,214 at the 2020 census. On the Atlantic coast, Hampton is home to Hampton Beach, a summer tourist destination. The densely populated central part of the town, where 9,597 people resided at the 2020 census, is defined as the Hampton census-designated place (CDP) and centers on the intersection of U.S. 1 and NH 27.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 14.6 square miles (37.9 km²), of which 12.9 square miles (33.4 km²) are land and 1.7 square miles (4.5 km²) are water, comprising 11.76% of the town. Hampton is drained by the Hampton and Drakes rivers. The town lies fully within the New Hampshire Coastal watershed. The highest point in Hampton is Bride Hill (approximately 150 feet (46 m) above sea level), near the town line with Exeter.

First called the "Plantation of Winnacunnet", Hampton was one of four original New Hampshire townships chartered by the General Court of Massachusetts, which then held authority over the colony. Winnacunnet is an Algonquian Abenaki word meaning "pleasant pines" and is the name of the town's high school, serving students from Hampton and the surrounding towns of Seabrook, North Hampton, and Hampton Falls.

In March 1635, Richard Dummer and John Spencer of the Byfield section of Newbury, Massachusetts, came round in their shallop, coming ashore at the landing, and were much impressed by the location. Dummer, who was a member of the General Court, got that body to lay its claim to the section and plan a plantation here. The Massachusetts General Court of March 3, 1636, ordered that Dummer and Spencer be given power to "To presse men to build there a Bound house."

The town was settled in 1638 by a group of parishioners led by Oxford University graduate Reverend Stephen Bachiler, who had formerly preached at the settlement's namesake: Hampton, England. The town, incorporated in 1639, once included Seabrook, Kensington, Danville, Kingston, East Kingston, Sandown, North Hampton and Hampton Falls. On September 18, 1679, the Acts of Privy Council records that Stephen Bachiler's son-in-law, "Christopher Hussey of Hampton, Esquire", was appointed by King Charles II to "govern the provence of New Hampshire" as a member of the newly established council of seven men.

Also among Hampton's earliest settlers was Thomas Leavitt, who previously had been among the first settlers at Exeter. His descendant Thomas Leavitt, Esq., lived in Hampton Falls, and was the leading Democratic politician in southern New Hampshire for many years. He made a noted early survey and plan of the town of Hampton in 1806. James Leavitt, of the same family, occupied the home which had previously belonged to Gen. Jonathan Moulton. Later members of the family ran Leavitts' Hampton Beach Hotel, a fixture in the area for generations. Construction of the railroad in the 1850s, as well as the Exeter and Hampton Trolley line, made 

Moreover, Hampton, NH prioritizes health and wellness for its residents. Healthcare facilities, like Exeter Hospital, ensure that residents have access to quality medical services. Explore the parks, facilities, and programs the Hampton Parks and Recreation Department offers. These spaces provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, sports, and picnicking. Join local fitness centers and gyms to participate in exercise programs, fitness classes, and strength training. Some popular options include Workout Anytime, Black Pearl Fitness and Seacoast Women's Fitness. Discover the walking and biking trails in and around Hampton, such as the White's Lane Trail and Hampton Beach Jetty Walk. These trails offer opportunities for outdoor exercise and enjoyment of nature.

Top sites in Hampton, NH include Hampton Beach State Park Campground, Tuck Museum, Fuller Gardens, and Explore the Ocean World Oceanarium.

Population: 16,214 (2020). Elevation: 36 ft (11 m). Area: 14.6 sq mi (37.9 km²). ZIP Codes: 03842. Area Code: 603.

FAQs

What is Hampton, NH famous for?

Construction of the railroad in the 1850s, as well as the Exeter and Hampton Trolley line, made Hampton's oceanfront a popular resort. Hampton Beach remains a tourist destination, offering shops, restaurants, beaches, and summer seasonal housing. Today, Hampton Beach continues to attract visitors from near and far with its vibrant atmosphere, sandy beaches, diverse culinary scene, and an array of recreational activities, maintaining its status as a cherished tourist destination.

Is Hampton, NH a good place to live?

Living in Hampton offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their homes. In Hampton there are a lot of restaurants, coffee shops, and parks. Many retirees live in Hampton and residents tend to lean liberal. The public schools in Hampton are highly rated.

Does Hampton, NH have a downtown?

Located on the coast of Rockingham County, Hampton, New Hampshire is a charming town that offers a blend of picturesque landscapes, rich history, and vibrant community life. This seaside town is a popular destination for both tourists and those looking to settle down. Beyond the beach, Hampton presents a charming waterfront downtown area replete with locally owned shops and restaurants. The town's rich history is evident in its beautiful and historic homes, making it an ideal place for those seeking seaside living with a touch of elegance.

Sources

Wikipedia

Town of Hampton

Exeter Hospital

Hampton Parks and Recreation Department 

Workout Anytime

Black Pearl Fitness 

Seacoast Women's Fitness

White's Lane Trail 

Hampton Beach Jetty Walk

Hampton Beach State Park Campground

Tuck Museum

Fuller Gardens

Explore the Ocean World Oceanarium

Niche

Great Island Realty

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