Townshend is a quiet community next to the Green Mountains
Located in the forest-covered eastern foothills of the Green Mountains, Townshend is a scenic and thoroughly woodsy community within commuting distance of Brattleboro and other towns along Interstate 91. Locals enjoy easy access to numerous nearby wilderness areas, which for many residents are Townshend’s biggest draw. The area was first developed for agriculture in the mid-18th century, but these days the largest local employer by far is Grace Cottage Hospital, the largest medical center in the area. Just south of the hospital, Townshend Common is laid out in traditional New England fashion, remains central to local life and is surrounded by historical buildings, including the 230-year-old Townshend Church.
Homes surrounded by farms and forests
Housing in Townshend ranges from turn-of-the-century cottages, bungalows and farmhouses to midcentury ranch-style homes, cabins and vacation homes. Homes tend to be somewhat isolated from one another and often sit on large, forested lots. Most single-family homes in the area sell for between $250,000 and $620,000, though smaller cottages and larger luxury retreats can fall outside of those bounds.
Close to multiple large wilderness areas
Townshend is basically surrounded by opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding and fishing. Townshend State Park sits on the south side of the community along the West River and features nature trails and camping. The boundaries of Green Mountain National Forest are a few miles west of town. The forest offers dozens of miles of mixed-use trails, beautiful scenery and a wide variety of recreational opportunities. It’s less than 20 miles from Townshend to Stratton Mountain Ski Resort in the Green Mountains, which is known for its challenging slopes and great views. Closer to home, Townshend Lake has a boat ramp, picnic shelters and swimming areas, as well as a trail network.
Limited retail along state Route 30
Townshend’s few retailers are nearly all found along state Route 30, the community’s main road. It’s home to River Bend Farm Market, the only full-service grocery store for about a dozen miles in any direction. Next door, Lawrence’s Smoke Shop offers a wide selection of locally sourced smoked meats and cheeses. Beyond these, retail in Townshend is limited to a few antique and thrift shops and a couple of convenience stores. For additional shopping, locals generally make the 17-mile drive to Brattleboro, which is home to a Walmart and a few department stores, along with a wide array of smaller retailers. Brattleboro is also home to the closest dining scene of any size. However, there are a few scattered country-style eateries closer to Townshend, including the popular Townshend Dam Diner.
Local public schools in the heart of the community
The local public schools are overseen by the Windham Central Supervisory Union. Townshend Village School, which serves kindergarten through fifth grade, has a B-plus rating on Niche. Leland & Gray Union Middle School and High School is located near the Village School in central Townshend, and has a C-plus rating. Leland & Gray Union High offers dual enrollment courses through the Community College of Vermont in nearby Brattleboro.
Grace Cottage Hospital Fair Day brings the community together
The Grace Cottage Hospital Fair Day, held each August on the Townshend Common, is part fundraiser, part social affair. It features live music, auctions and community booths, and is one of the few times the entire town gathers in a single place. Those looking for bigger events generally have to head to Brattleboro or even further.
Residents depend on cars to get around
Route 30 connects the town with Brattleboro and the rest of the West River Valley. Nearly all residents depend on personal vehicles, as there is no public transportation in the area. Heavy snow isn’t uncommon in winter, and while road maintenance is generally reliable on main routes, it can be patchy on hill roads and backcountry lanes. It’s a little less than 90 miles from Townshend to Albany, which has the nearest major airport.
