Few other states that comprise New England truly embody the British Isles than New Hampshire. Dozens of towns in New Hampshire are closely named after actual locations in England, such as Portsmouth, Exeter, Hanover, and many more. Although some of these towns rebelled against the British Empire during the American Revolution, they have since prospered into some of the most adorable small towns in New Hampshire for you to explore in 2024. You will be awed by Peterborough’s contributions to several nation-defining wars. You will be enamored by Amherst’s bucolic sceneries and landscapes. You might even be swept off your feet—quite literally—by the strong winds coming from North Conway. Either way, 2024’s most adorable small towns in New Hampshire should not be missed.

Portsmouth

About an hour north of Boston, Massachusetts, you will find the enticing town of Portsmouth at the mouth of the Piscataqua River. Although the Piscataqua River serves as a good avenue for ferries and tugboats to go to and from the Atlantic Ocean, it also delineates the state borders of New Hampshire and Maine. People coming from both states and more can enjoy Portsmouth’s well-preserved 17th- and 18th-century houses. The ones specifically within the Strawbery Banke Museum are great places to immerse yourself into a time when Portsmouth was the first capital of New Hampshire and where costumed staff showcase traditional crafts from the second oldest settlement in the state since 1623.

The USS Albacore Museum, on the other hand, features a decommissioned Albacore submarine for those curious to see the inside of an underwater vehicle. Other historical sites include the Fort Stark State Historic Site, which was a pivotal fortress during the American Revolution and Civil War, and the St. John’s Church with its pipe organ from 1708. For more modern amenities, you can stroll through the verdant and flowery paradise of Prescott Park. You can also embrace the ocean breeze at the Odiorne Point State Park, which also contains the Seacoast Science Center for those who are enthusiastic about marine biology. There are dozens more historic and natural charms to relish in Portsmouth, and among them are the pristine lodgings you can afford, such as Wentworth by the Sea, Martin Hill Inn, or Sheraton Portsmouth Harborside.

Hanover

On the banks of the Connecticut River—which marks the borders between New Hampshire and Vermont—lies the humble town of Hanover. As home to the prestigious Dartmouth College—an Ivy League school first founded in 1769—Hanover has served as a place of enlightenment and inspiration for numerous individuals, locals and visitors alike. Dartmouth College’s Baker Library on the campus green contains the frescoes of José Clemente Orozco, a renowned artist from Mexico. Additionally, the Montshire Museum of Science from across the Connecticut River provides a number of interactive exhibits, an aquarium, and a few science parks for individuals who are eager to unlock more of the universe’s mysteries. Some of you might be more invested in touring the homely estate of a sculptor named Augustus Saint-Gaudens or seeing engineering marvels like the Wilder Dam or Boston Lot Lake. Whichever destination you go to first, you ought to at least rest a while at either the Hanover Inn Dartmouth or Six South St. Hotel.

Sugar Hill

Approximately 55 minutes away from Hanover, the delightful town of Sugar Hill will leave you ecstatic and excited to see more. As one of the smallest towns in New Hampshire—with a population less than 650 people—Sugar Hill is named after the many large groves of sugar maples in the immediate area. It is a pleasant and soothing settlement for those wanting peace and quiet in the countryside, with fantastic views of the Presidential, Franconia, Kinsman, and Dalton ranges in the grand White Mountains. June is a particularly good time to visit Sugar Hill, as its fields and hills blossom with pink and purple lupine flowers. Savor some exquisite homemade pancakes at Polly’s Pancake Parlor or cheese at Harmen’s Cheese Store. Most of all, give yourself a much-needed sleep at The Sunset Hill House, Franconia Inn, Lovett’s Inn & Restaurant, or Sugar Hill Inn.

Exeter

Exeter, with its location on Squamscott River and Exeter River, was a patriot stronghold for American soldiers during the American Revolutionary War. Before then—in the period of 1675 to 1725 when a group of religious exiles from the Massachusetts Bay colony first founded the town—Exeter fell victim to several severe Native American raids. It eventually stabilized into a thriving community with several historic structures such as the Gilman Garrison House (c. 1690), the Congregational Church (1798), and the Ladd-Gilman House (c. 1721). The latter, specifically, can be found at the American Independence Museum which also illustrates the history of years following the first Independence Day. You can always enjoy a brisk walk and hike through the Henderson-Swasey Town Forest. Less than 20 minutes from Portsmouth, you can entrust your belongings at the illustrious Exeter Inn or Inn by the Bandstand.

Amherst

Around 23 miles from Peterborough, travelers will fall in love with the lackadaisical and simplistic charms of Amherst. With its position in the Merrimack Valley and the eastern edge of the Monadnock region, Amherst is a utopian destination for those wanting the rural countryside of America. Biologists and other animal enthusiasts can find all sorts of unique creatures at the Ponemah Bog Wildlife Sanctuary. The Minot J. Ross Memorial Bird Sanctuary is also a perfect spot for birdwatchers and other avian lovers. Trekkers, hikers, and campers can seek their adventures at the Hodgman State Forest and the Joe English Reservation. Meanwhile, Baboosic Lake is open to individuals who are interested in swimming, boating, and fishing. There are many other secrets and possibilities to uncover in Amherst, so consider choosing this secluded small town as an adorable getaway from your big city troubles.

Peterborough

Peterborough is a lovable town filled with deep historic ties to prior American conflicts. During the French and Indian War, the first settlers of Peterborough fought for the English King’s army in spite of their initial mistrust of the Old World government. Then in the American Revolution, its willing townspeople fought at the Battle of Bunker Hill in 1775. Many of these Revolutionary heroes are now interred in Peterborough’s Old Street Road Cemetery including the drummer boy of Lexington, William Diamond.

Peterborough proved its valor once again in the War of 1812, when its native son James Miller (1776-1858) became the Hero of the Battle of Lundy’s Lane. He was awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in 1814 for defending a crucial site that would one day become Miller State Park, New Hampshire’s oldest state park. Indeed, Miller was such a hero that American author Nathaniel Hawthorne, in his introduction to The Scarlett Letter, described Miller as “New England’s most distinguished soldier.” There are several more attractions to admire in Peterborough, like Monadnock State Park and the MacDowell Colony (now known simply as ‘MacDowell’), the largest artist colony in America since 1907. And if you are in need of accommodations, look no further than to the Riverhouse.

Meredith

When it comes to relaxation and reprieve, Meredith provides innumerable opportunities for everyone wanting the laidback luxuries of rural New Hampshire. One can feel like they are at sea while strolling along the multitude of shorelines of Lake Winnipesaukee. Among these splendid shores are the Lovejoy Sands that serve as a launching point to the sublime Bear Islands, home to some of New Hampshire’s magnificent wildlife and plant life and one of several lush islands in Lake Winnepesaukee. You can also see more of New Hampshire’s wilderness at the Hamlin-Eames-Smyth Recreation and Conservation Area. Additional swimming, fishing, and kayaking opportunities can be earned at the much smaller Lake Winnisquam, Lake Waukewan, and Squam Lake. No need to worry about where you have to stay in the chilly evenings, because welcoming lodgings like The Oliver Lodge, The Nutmeg Inn, and Mill Falls at the Lake will keep you safe and sound in Meredith.

North Conway

Set within the White Mountains and near the state border between Maine and New Hampshire, North Conway is the first stepping stone towards the sublime summits of Mount Washington. Only about 50 miles from Sugar Hill, visitors can revel and rejoice in the many ski resorts in North Conway, such as the snowy adventures of the Cranmore Mountain Resort and the rollercoaster rides of the Attitash Mountain Resort. Traipse through the thick thickets of Merriman State Forest—Gawk at the alluring cascades of Diana’s Baths. Seek out one of the swimming holes along Saco River, or barter for great deals at one of the 100 big-name factory outlet stores at Settlers Green.

Visitors can get a picture-perfect vantage of North Conway and its surrounding environment from atop the Cathedral Ledge Lookout. And if you wish to know more about the extreme weather and harsh winds around Mount Washington and in the White Mountains, you can head over to the Mount Washington Observatory Offices for reliable forecasts. So put North Conway in your list of destinations to visit in New Hampshire, and consider The Colonial Motel, North Conway Grand Hotel, and School House Inn as options for your temporary place of residence in the mountain village.

In Conclusion

Skiing opportunities in the mountains? Check. Vibrant lakes and verdant forests? Check. And a deep historic association with several wars and conflicts that shaped the United States? Definitely. New Hampshire’s most adorable small towns fulfill these criteria for a fulfilling destination, and more. Take care when traversing the White Mountains and Mount Washington, specifically, in case the rapid winds that blow down to the town of North Conway are too much. Have fun when exploring Portsmouth for its seaside amenities and New England culture. Kayak through lakes such as Lake Winnipesaukee in Meredith to see some of the flora and fauna of the state. But most importantly, remember to great memories and experiences in your jolly journey through New Hampshire this 2024.

“If it wasn’t already, it sure came into play last Thursday,” said Jon McHenry, a national GOP pollster who grew up in New Hampshire, referring to the first general-election debate between Biden and Trump.

Republican “reach states,” including New Hampshire, “became more competitive after that performance,” McHenry said. A year ago, the state “absolutely” looked less competitive for Republicans, he said, “whereas now, you go, ‘Hey, that’s on the table.’”

The fresh attention on New Hampshire comes as both campaigns seek to expand the map of key battleground states beyond the six that proved decisive in 2020. Immediately after last week’s debate, for example, Biden campaigned in North Carolina, while Trump traveled to Virginia, each candidate wooing a state he lost four years ago.

New Hampshire has long been a purple state; it currently has an-all Democratic congressional delegation, a Republican governor, and an almost even party split in its state House of Representatives. But not since George W. Bush in 2000 has the state backed a Republican for president — a streak that gives Democrats hope, even as Biden shows increasing signs of weakness.

“We are confident Granite Staters will come together this November to reelect President Biden and reject Donald Trump, just as we did in 2016 and 2020,” said Marisa Nahem, a spokesperson for the Biden campaign in New Hampshire.

Biden carried New Hampshire by seven percentage points in 2020, but his campaign still considers it a battleground state this time around. In 2016, when Hillary Clinton carried New Hampshire, the margin was far closer; she bested Trump by less than one percentage point.

This year’s election could more closely resemble 2016 than 2020, analysts said. And while New Hampshire is just one small state, its competitiveness forewarns of far larger consequences for Democrats.

“If New Hampshire is in play, then Donald Trump is going to win” the general election, predicted Fergus Cullen, a former New Hampshire GOP chair who opposes Trump. If Trump manages to even compete in New Hampshire, he reasoned, the former president will carry the bigger swing states with more electoral votes.

“All that’s happened in the last six months is Trump’s path has expanded and Biden’s path to winning has become more and more narrow, much more threading the needle,” Cullen added. “He’s clearly been on defense in states that should be solidly in the Democratic column. The trends are all moving in one direction.”

As national Democrats openly discuss the possibility of replacing the president on the ticket this fall, some Biden backers in New Hampshire have been quick to tamp down on such speculation. And supporters dismiss the recent poll showing Trump ahead of Biden, noting that the survey has been proven wrong before and months of campaigning remain before Election Day.

Sure, New Hampshire looks competitive — but that’s nothing new this year, said Kathy Sullivan, the former state Democratic chair who led this year’s write-in effort for Biden in the primary. Biden snubbed New Hampshire by skipping its Jan. 23 primary this year, as national Democrats sought to shift the early contests to states with more diverse populations. But he decisively won the primary as a write-in candidate despite not formally campaigning in the state himself.

Biden has made two trips to New Hampshire since he skipped the primary, attempting to reset his relationship with the state. His campaign and local Democrats have 14 coordinated campaign offices.

Sullivan said Republicans are “getting ahead of themselves” in arguing that Biden’s debate performance will sink him in the state. Sullivan said based on conversations she’s had with canvassers promoting Biden door to door with New Hampshire voters, she is not convinced that the race has tightened since the debate.

“I feel nervous about every election,” Sullivan said. “Fingers crossed, say a Hail Mary, or whatever prayer you might say, or meditate. It’s just going to be like every other election.”

Despite Republican bluster about recapturing the state in a presidential election, Trump has not campaigned in New Hampshire since he won its first-in-the-nation primary in January. A surrogate, his onetime GOP primary rival North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, spoke at a fund-raising dinner in Keene in April.

Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Whatley told reporters in Arizona this week that as the Trump campaign worked to expand the map of battleground states, “we’ve now started to engage in Minnesota and in Virginia and in New Hampshire.”

But the RNC would not say what that effort entails. Trump campaign senior advisor and RNC chief of staff Chris LaCivita said in a statement that he did not feel “obligated … to discuss the specifics of our strategy, timing and tactics with members of the news media.” But New Hampshire GOP Chairman Chris Ager told the Globe that last month, even before the June 27 debate, the Trump campaign made a “substantial” contribution to the state party to help Republicans on the ground boost the former president’s campaign.

“It’s an indicator when the campaign starts giving money directly to the state party,” Ager said. “It’s a good sign for us that yes, we are a battleground state.”

Ager declined to say how much the Trump campaign had provided, but called it a “significant investment” — the first large chunk of money the party has received directly, and he is expecting more to come.

Before the debate, Ager said he knew New Hampshire would be close, but he wasn’t sure Trump could win it. Now, he said, he is “convinced.”

“I’m usually pretty cautious,” Ager said, “and now I’m like, ‘Oh boy.’”

Emma Platoff can be reached at emma.platoff@globe.com. Follow her @emmaplatoff.

Their dream home has become a place of nightmares.

A New Hampshire family is being terrorized by a homeless encampment that sprouted up behind their historic home, leading to violent encounters with the vagrants, according to a report.

Robin Bach and her husband spent years restoring their 19th-century dream home in Concord to raise their two children, ages 8 and 11 — but have been plagued by the campers living in the woods behind the palatial abode.

They’ve received death threats and have heard gunshots and screams from beyond the tree line. A swingset in their backyard, bought in 2020 during the pandemic, sits untouched by her terrified children, who will only play in the front yard.

“I can’t even use my backyard. My kids can’t go out there,” Bach told the Concord Monitor. “I would like my children to be independent and feel comfortable going outside and playing and they won’t.

“This is the worst it’s ever been, It’s the worst it’s ever been.”

Since purchasing the house in 2018 with grand plans to renovate and raise a family, Bach has called police 37 times, according to police records reviewed by the newspaper. Six calls were for an area check, another six for disturbances as well as domestic violence and criminal trespassing incidents.

During one of their first summers in the house, Bach’s husband found a man, who they had previously seen lurking in the woods near some tents, sitting in their backyard. When he asked the man to leave, the interloper threatened to shoot him.

The man returned several times until Bach filed a restraining order against him — and cops hauled him off in handcuffs as her young children watched, she told the Concord Monitor.

In another incident, she was teaching her son how to do laundry when they heard chilling screams of some yelling, “Get off me, get off me” coming from the encampment, prompting another police call.

A dumpster fire behind a neighbor’s home two doors down sent wailing firetrucks rushing up her street to put out the blaze, the outlet said.

When Bach asked for a quote to install a chain link fence around her property, she was disheartened to learn that it would cost $50,000, she told the Monitor.

“I can’t afford to clean it up. I can’t physically do it myself,” she said about the garbage visible from the house. “So the trash remains.”

What was once just one or two tents when she first moved in, the camp has ballooned to about half a dozen, as New Hampshire experiences one of the largest percentage increases in homelessness in the country, according to the paper.

The encampment on Bach’s property poses a unique challenge because it borders property and train tracks owned by CSX, a freight railroad company.

While Concord police can go and issue no-trespassing orders at any time, CSX also has its own police detail that will sweep the area and arrest people.

Police are able to clear out the camp and have done so a few times and tried to connect them with local programs to find stable housing — but that’s the extent of the city’s involvement on private property, meaning the litter stays.

And, after the police have moved the campers out, they just return in a matter of days, Bach told the Monitor.

“We have a pretty significant homeless problem,” Barrett Moulton, the deputy chief of patrol and police liaison on the city’s homeless steering committee, told the outlet. “They’re going to be somewhere.”

“It’s Whack-a-Mole,” Bach echoed. “You can’t just ask them to leave, they’re going to go somewhere else. You have to give them someplace to go.”

Bach understands that squatters behind her home need assistance and stability. She recently spoke to a man who holds a day job and tries to keep the area around his ten clean.

She and other local leaders believe a solution would be to create a designated campsite for the homeless in the city, where much-needed resources and outreach can be concentrated in one place.

“You can put your tent here, here’s bathrooms, dumpsters,” she said. “They’ve come here and told them to move a million times, they don’t move.”

The Supreme Court ruled last week that homeless people can be ticketed and fined for camping on public property in a landmark decision, which will likely lead to cities across the country to take legal action against the unhoused.

Last year, about 650,000 individuals in the US lacked a permanent place to live, according to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, a 12% increase from 2022 and the most since tracking began in 2007.