Coventry offers a rural lifestyle just outside Newport
Coventry is a rural community located just outside Newport, known for its forested landscapes and large lots. The town doesn’t have much infrastructure, so locals usually rely on private utilities. However, the lack of public amenities keeps taxes comparatively low, and the town doesn’t have zoning laws, so homeowners don’t need approval to start hobby farms or home businesses. “It’s a little bit unique,” says Michael Conley, an owner and principal broker at Conley Country Real Estate & Insurance who’s been living in the area for over 70 years. “More towns have zoning now than don’t. But in any area where there’s no public sewer there’s state septic laws that are pretty strict.” The peaceful woodlands surrounding Coventry attract those looking for seclusion in North Vermont.
Farmhouses and manufactured homes on large lots
Ranch-style homes, farmhouses and manufactured properties throughout Coventry range widely in age, though mostly dating to the late 19th and early 21st centuries. Lot sizes begin at a half-acre but can go up to 10 acres. Generally, homeowners rely on private well water and septic tanks, and dirt roads can get muddy and hard to navigate in the spring. Prices range from $150,000 to $650,000, mostly depending on lot size. Empty lots range from $30,000 to $100,000 for between 2 and 50 acres. Some low-lying areas are at risk of flooding, and federal mortgage lenders may require flood insurance.
Lots of hunting and fishing grounds across the community
The South Bay of Lake Memphremagog borders Coventry on the north side, with public access points in Newport for boating. “The climate is really beautiful,” Conley says. “The winters are cold, but when the sun comes out, it turns into a bright sunny day.” The South Bay Wildlife Management Area encompasses around 2,000 acres of wetlands, making it a popular destination for hunting and fishing along small rivers. The wildlife area is home to dozens of unique species, including bobcats, mallards and deer. Unmarked snowmobiling and four-wheeling trails wind throughout the rest of Coventry.
Longstanding local diner, other restaurants in neighboring towns
Coventry has a small town center area, home to a post office and Martha’s Diner, a locally owned staple of the community since the 1970s. Locals drive into Newport for grocery stores like Green Mountain Natural Foods, along with more restaurant options like The East Side Restaurant & Pub, which serves American fare on the banks of Lake Memphremagog.
Newport is the closest town, accessible by Highway 5
Coventry is adjacent to Newport, the nearest major town, and connected by Highway 5. Interstate 91 runs along the community’s east side, leading less than 20 miles to the Canadian border. The Northeast Kingdom International Airport is located in the center of the community, though it’s mostly used for small private flights. North Country Hospital is under 10 miles away.
Annual Fly to Pie marathon begins in Coventry
The annual Fly to Pie Kingdom Marathon takes place in October, beginning at the Northeast Kingdom International Airport. The race ends with an all-you-can-eat pizza party in West Glover and attracts runners from all over the region.
Local kids attend Coventry Village School
Coventry Village School serves kindergarten through eighth grade and earns a D from Niche. The C-minus-rated North Country Union High offers ice hockey, soccer and basketball athletic programs.
