Gillette Castle State Park, East Haddam: Hours, Address, Gillette Castle State Park Reviews: 4.5/5
Gillette Castle State Park
Gillette Castle State Park
4.5
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About
This 24-room mansion has undergone extensive renovations.
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Attractions
49 within 10 kms
Chester-Hadlyme Ferry
50
0.9 kmFerries
Selden III
17
0.9 kmFerries
DEEP Marine Headquarters - Ferry Landing Park
39
1.4 kmPoints of Interest & Landmarks • Parks
Norma Terris Theatre
60
3 kmTheatres
Ray of Light Farm
13
2.5 kmRides & Activities • Farms
East Haddam Swing Bridge
72
4.1 kmPoints of Interest & Landmarks • Bridges
Ivoryton Playhouse
87
Theatres
East Haddam Historical Society Museum
4
2.9 kmSpeciality Museums
Staehly Farm Winery
21
3 kmWineries & Vineyards
The Little House Brewing Co
7
3.2 kmBreweries
Contribute
Popular mentions
4.5
765 reviews
Excellent
531
Very good
201
Average
26
Poor
5
Terrible
3
drtydva
Clarkston, MI127 contributions
Jun 2022 • Couples
The park was beautiful and the caste off in the distance was great. Finding out about the history of William Gillette was interesting.
Didn't do tour because of my lack of mobility but maybe next time
Didn't do tour because of my lack of mobility but maybe next time
Written 29 June 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Tatiana L
27 contributions
May 2022 • Family
Beautiful place, very nice park. Castle was closed, I think they will reopen on May 28th. But still very beautiful, interesting place to visit
Written 18 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Carol Ann J
Germantown, NY1,172 contributions
May 2022
Gillette Castle State Park is home to the most amazing work of art. The stone castle is like something out of a fairy tale. It sits on a hill overlooking the river. There are trails one may explore and a pond. The grounds are lovely. There are other stone structures on the grounds as well.
Written 13 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
deniselamb
Manchester, NH88 contributions
Mar 2022
We went here in march. Although the castle was not open there was a lot to see. We walked all around the property. Lots of beautiful views. We went down to the beach and over to a historical ferry site.
Written 20 March 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Jack L
East Syracuse, NY782 contributions
Sep 2021
My visit was on September 13, 2021, a Monday, the day before I viewed the castle from below on the Connecticut River, while on the river boat off the Essex Train ride. I didn't realize the castle was in my future. Only after arrival did learn the visitor center was closed. I don't know if the castle itself can be toured. For the late season visit I would suggest a direct phone call for time & what can be toured.
Was able to photograph much of the castle's out side. The castle is quite the structure and about 200 yards above the Connecticut River. The castle was designed, owned & lived i by American stage actor William Gillette , who portrayed Sherlock Homes. William lived in the castle from 1919-1937. The castle is a three story plus tower structure, with 22 rooms, built of wood, cement & Connecticut field stones. Plenty of free parking.
If a person has an interest in type of medieval structure, this castle should not disappoint. This was my first castle & enjoyed the structure. The only thing missing was the drawbridge. A visit is recommended.
Was able to photograph much of the castle's out side. The castle is quite the structure and about 200 yards above the Connecticut River. The castle was designed, owned & lived i by American stage actor William Gillette , who portrayed Sherlock Homes. William lived in the castle from 1919-1937. The castle is a three story plus tower structure, with 22 rooms, built of wood, cement & Connecticut field stones. Plenty of free parking.
If a person has an interest in type of medieval structure, this castle should not disappoint. This was my first castle & enjoyed the structure. The only thing missing was the drawbridge. A visit is recommended.
Written 22 January 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
WiseInTexas
The Woodlands, TX2 contributions
Oct 2021 • Couples
If you’re into history, architecture, hiking, nature, and scenic vistas, this is a must visit! Gillette was as much of an inventor as an actor. The park employees do an excellent job of explaining the history and details of the castle. Before you visit, call and/or go to the state park website to determine the hours of operation, as they vary depending on the season. The park itself is always open from 8 AM till local sunset, so you can always view the exterior of the castle and the park grounds. If you want to tour the interior of the castle, check the days and hours of operation before visiting. To avoid a long wait, reserve a time slot over the phone before you visit.
Written 19 November 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Bubba_da_Traveler1
Boston, MA222 contributions
Nov 2021 • Couples
The Castle was closed, but the grounds are beautiful. Great views overlooking the CT River. Fall colors were gorgeous.
Written 15 November 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
westie2
Kensington, CT10,844 contributions
Nov 2021
We were leaf popping with our dog and decided to visit this state park that is situated high above the Connecticut river. Since our fur baby has shown no interest in being a service dog, we limited our visit to touring the grounds which are beautiful and well maintained. A return visit next year when the castle reopens will likely occur.
Written 14 November 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Old Mill
Lancaster, PA3 contributions
Oct 2021
This remarkable place is the product of the actor who, in the 1890's, created our image of Sherlock Holmes. It was designed by him with great attention to detail. It's a monument to him AND to the local craftsmen who built it and decorated the interior. There are something like 28 hand 'carved' wooden doors - each one is different.
Written 4 November 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
79claytonj
Daytona Beach Shores, FL240 contributions
Sep 2021 • Friends
A beautiful sunny day it was after Labor Day so a lot of places were closed such a wonderful location one would think that they would take advantage of the seasons to decorate accordingly.
The views were spectacular autumn was in the air
The views were spectacular autumn was in the air
Written 24 September 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.
Karin D
Millersville, MD114 contributions
How much time should I plan for the $6 house tour? Thanks!
milliegordon2
Southbury, CT569 contributions
An hour should be about the right amount of time inside the castle, itself. More time should be allowed for the movie and grounds.
Dana
4 contributions
Will the castle be open August 2021?
Yes. You can get your tickets online in advance thru Reserve America. Just type "Gillette Castle State Park Tours"
Berto
West Haven, CT
Hi does anyone in the area know if they are turning on the inside lights to the castle at dusk? Asking for a photography project. Thank you
The lights would not be left on that late. Futhermore, the park closes at sunset so it's tough to get pictures then. The roof lights of the castle do come on at night. If you were to stand on the Chester side of the Ferry and look toward the castle, it would probably make for some good photos.
How much is the entrance fee to the castle?
The park is free.
The castle is closed due to Covid. The normal entrance fee is $6 for anyone 13 and older. Kids 6-12 are $2 and kids 5 and under are free.
Priscilla A
West Greenwich, RI2 contributions
Is the castle open today aug 23 2020?
balaczar
New Milford, CT252 contributions
The castle itself isn't open because of Covid. But the grounds are opened and a beautiful place to walk.
DanAdrian
Brooklyn, NY103 contributions
Hi, would the castle be open for Memorial Day this year? Opening Hours? Castle Tour fees still the same?
Thank you
christopherbO9687MP
Acton, MA466 contributions
In addition to checking Gillette Castle's hours starting Memorial Day weekend, you might also check if the park has also started their series of outdoor plays on the grounds (near the main castle). A local theater group did these on the summer weekends last year, and they might be starting again on Memorial Day weekend.
Is the castle still open for this and if so when does it close.
heatherpI8220KN
50 contributions
Today, Columbus Day, was the last day it is open for the season but they will be open for holiday tours
Is the castle open now and what time does it open?
Preston F
Dobbs Ferry, NY80 contributions
I agree with above reply. The website will have exact times
Will Gillette Castle be open to the public on thursday, August 29, 2019?
Mary
Fall River, MA166 contributions
You should call them.
Frequently Asked Questions about Gillette Castle State Park
- Gillette Castle State Park is open:
- Thu - Sun 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Hotels near Gillette Castle State Park:
- (4.79 km) Riverwind Inn Bed & Breakfast
- (15.98 km) Westbrook Inn
- (4.01 km) Boardman House
- (13.03 km) Chatfield Hollow Inn
- (8.97 km) The Griswold Inn
- Restaurants near Gillette Castle State Park:
- (1.53 km) Rustica Ristorante
- (3.16 km) River Tavern
- (4.13 km) Whistle Stop
- (4.37 km) Two Wrasslin' Cats
- (15.83 km) Cafe Routier
- Attractions near Gillette Castle State Park:
- (0.87 km) Chester-Hadlyme Ferry
- (0.86 km) Selden III
- (4.00 km) Goodspeed Opera House
- (1.35 km) DEEP Marine Headquarters - Ferry Landing Park
- (13.95 km) Florence Griswold Museum