History, natural beauty and small-town charm in Somerset
Forty-eight miles northeast of Buffalo, Somerset is a rural town comprising farmland, woodlands and smaller communities, including the close-knit village of Barker. "It's a unique area to live in — remote, along [Lake Ontario]," says Jennifer Mason , a real estate agent at Keller Williams Realty who grew up in Somerset. "Homes do not sit long." Established in 1823, the town is rich in history, with landmarks such as the Thirty Mile Point Lighthouse and the Babcock House. Golden Hill State Park draws visitors for camping, fishing and striking sunsets over the lake. "Overall, it's a peaceful community where … you always have a neighbor to count on," Mason says.
The Hartland Vietnam War Memorial honors Somerset’s veterans.
Homes in Somerset often feature large lots that blend into the rural landscape.
Barker Bi-Centennial Park is a waterfront landmark in Somerset’s Village of Barker.
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Farmhouses, ranch-style homes and lakeside properties
Somerset's single-family homes offer a blend of small-town charm and rural tranquility. "We have a few newer homes, but they range up to and beyond 100 years old," Mason says.
In Barker, quiet residential streets are shaded by mature maples. Single-family homes sit close together, with manicured lawns and paved driveways. Their styles vary, but Craftsman-inspired details are typical, including louvered shutters, shiplap siding and wide porches. Outside the village, farmhouses and ranch-style homes with acreage stretch along country roads. Their spacious lots offer privacy and ample space for outbuildings, such as workshops or stables. Along the lakefront, many homes feature decks and private docks.
Depending on size and features, prices typically range from $160,000 to $550,000, with a few fixer-uppers falling below that range.
Somerset’s charming cottages offers peaceful living for as low as $160,000.
Homes in Somerset often feature steaply pitched roofs and garages.
Small lake front cottages can be found in the Village of Barker in the north of Somerset.
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Dual-enrollment opportunities at Barker Junior/Senior High
Somerset is part of multiple school districts, including the Barker Central School District, which is rated B-minus overall by Niche. Kids in kindergarten through sixth grade may start at the B-minus-rated Pratt Elementary before moving to the C-plus-rated Barker Junior/Senior High. At the latter, teens may take dual-enrollment courses for credit at SUNY Niagara.
Barker Central School in Somerset serves kindergarten through 12th grade.
Somerset’s families value Barker Central School District’s supportive atmosphere.
Students in Somerset can start their academic journey at Milford Elementary.
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Community parks, Barker Corn Festival and sunsets on Lake Ontario
Somerset's parks highlight the town's quiet beauty. The 500-acre Golden Hill State Park, set along Lake Ontario, is the centerpiece, offering boat launches, campgrounds and miles of dirt-packed trails. On summer days, swans glide across the water, anglers cast lines for brown trout and families watch the sunset from the historic Thirty Mile Point Lighthouse.
Farther inland, Somerset Town Park serves as a vibrant community hub, featuring a playground, basketball courts and baseball fields. David Barker Park is a pocket-sized green space that hosts community events, such as the Barker Corn Festival in August. "Cornfest is a great time," Mason says. "You'll see strongman competitions, corn-eating contests, craft vendors, dog agility shows, bands.'
For a quiet escape into nature, the historic Hollow Log Salt Well — carved centuries ago by Native Americans from a buttonwood log — sits along Fish Creek, drawing from a natural spring. Niagara Falls, 38 miles away, is another scenic retreat, world-famous for its cascading waterfalls.
Somerset Town Park hosts community events and summer activities for all ages.
Residents enjoy Somerset Town Park’s playgrounds and scenic walking trails.
Golden Hill State Park offer's recreation along Lake Ontario in the northern part of Somerset.
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Farm-fresh groceries, beef on weck and ice cream nachos
The town's locally owned eateries and farm stores highlight the area's laid-back appeal and agricultural roots. Whether ordering takeout for game day or sitting down for a late lunch, The Grain House has American comfort food covered, with sweet sauce pizza, fried pickles and beef on weck — a regional staple of roast beef piled high on a kummelweck roll. Nearby, The Louisiana Cookery serves up Cajun favorites like cornmeal-breaded crawfish and andouille sausage gumbo, while The Taco Place offers Mexican dishes, from al pastor tacos to sweet indulgences like ice cream nachos made with waffle cone chips.
In the summer, the family-owned Lower Lake Creamery is a must-stop for sundaes, scoops and specialties like the Somerset Smoothie — Perry's Ice Cream mixed with Orange Fanta. "The owners make it a wonderful place," Mason says. "There can be lines out the door during the summer." For everyday needs, there's a Dollar General and the Cobblestone Farm Store, which sells farm-fresh meats, flowers and artisan goods. Donovan Orchards, a nearby cider mill, crafts inventive flavors like vanilla-poached pear. Newfane, 11 miles away, offers additional shopping and dining, including a Tops for groceries.
Somerset’s Becker Farms is a staple of the area’s vibrant agricultural community.
The Taco Place and Ice Cream Shop, across from the Barker Fire Department in Somerset, serves up local favorite Perry's Ice Cream.
Dining options such as Bill's Diner can be found along Main St. in Newfane on the western side of Somerset.
Tops in Newfane provides groceries for Somerset residents.
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Community events at the Babcock Cobblestone House Museum
The Town of Somerset New York Historical Society maintains the Babcock Cobblestone House Museum. Built in the mid-19th century, the house is notable for its Greek Revival masonry and period-appropriate furnishings, including a brick bread oven. The society hosts occasional events, too, such as the Old-Fashioned Farm Festival in September. The annual tradition features numerous historical displays, including Civil War artifacts, antique tractors and blacksmithing demonstrations. In December, Victorian Christmas brings a 19th-century spin to holiday traditions with horse-drawn sleigh rides and carol singing around a pump organ.
Pedestrian-friendly Barker, State Route 18 and Connect Niagara buses
Barker is generally walkable and bike-friendly, but residents often drive to get around town. State Route 18 passes through Somerset, providing connecting access to Buffalo. Connect Niagara buses stop in Barker, with service to Niagara Falls. Lockport Memorial Hospital is 20 miles away, and Niagara Falls International Airport is a 34-mile drive.
Written By
Travis Rocha
Photography Contributed By
Edward Pokoj
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Charles Malcomb,
an experienced agent in this area.
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Welcome to 1116 Quaker Road. If you've been looking for a rural property situated on 5.56 acre lot this might be the home for you! Built in 1936, this home (although looking like a ranch), is really multi-level. Please refer to the pictures showing several steps up the family room when you enter through the main door. This 1400 sq. foot home offers water, sewer, natural gas, a generator, all
Bring your culinary vision to life in this fully operational 2,720 sq ft restaurant, ideally located in the charming Village of Barker. With a stylish modern-rustic interior and welcoming atmosphere, this turn-key space is ready to open its doors for business. Guests will love the inviting indoor dining area and the added bonus of outdoor seating—perfect for warm summer evenings and casual dining
Mark ZambitoBerkshire Hathaway Homeservices Zambito Realtors
Well loved home with two out buildings on a beautiful 3/4 acre country lot. Spacious main home with both living rooms and family room. Large first floor mudroom with first floor laundry. Large family room with wood burning fireplace overlooks a patio door with large deck. 25x30 garage with work shop and 30amp camper plug. Second shed 2009. Includes stove, fridge, washer, and dryer. Roof 2022.
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