Northfield, town in Washington County, Vermont, United States
Northfield is a small New England town in Washington County set in a valley surrounded by the Green Mountains. The community includes several historic village centers with old brick buildings and modern homes, connected by quiet streets and local shops that serve the area's residents and visitors.
Northfield was chartered in the late 1700s and attracted settlers from Connecticut and Massachusetts who established farms and communities. The 1800s brought a woolen mill and granite quarrying industry, while the arrival of Norwich University in 1866 added an educational institution that continues to define the town's character.
The town's name reflects its location in a valley north of early settlements. Residents shape the daily life here by gathering at small shops and cafes, maintaining a strong connection to local craftsmanship and the rhythm of a close-knit community.
The town is accessible via quiet roads from nearby Montpelier and other towns, with public buses offering connections. Visitors will find simple lodging options from mountain cabins to cozy cottages and small shops and restaurants throughout, making it easy to explore at a relaxed pace without needing a detailed schedule.
Northfield has several wooden covered bridges that cross rivers and streams, offering quiet stops where visitors can pause and observe the water below. These understated structures reflect earlier times and often escape notice despite being characteristic elements of the surrounding landscape.
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