Gillette Castle is a historic home and museum that was built in East Haddam, Connecticut in 1919. It was the home of the late American stage actor and playwright William Gillette. He is most well-known for portraying the famous literary character Sherlock Holmes: a role he assumed more than 1,300 times on stage, once in a silent film, and twice on the radio. Gillette's use of the deerstalker cap and calabash pipe became enduring symbols of the character. He had planned to build a retirement home in Long Island, but changed his mind when he saw the Seven Sisters cliffs while traversing the Connecticut River in his houseboat, Aunt Polly. He chose this location for his "castle", which he designed himself and dubbed "Seventh Sister". Taking nearly five years to complete, the 14,000-sq-ft castle featured a 3-story-plus-tower and 24 rooms. Gillette also built a 3-mile-long narrow gauge railroad around the property, which he was particularly fond of. Notable celebrities of the early 20th century visited the home, including Albert Einstein, Helen Hayes, and Charlie Chaplin. Gillette passed away in 1937 at the age of 83. The State of Connecticut purchased the property in 1943 and dubbed it "Gillette Castle". Today the residence and surrounding park receive 350,000 visitors annually. Every holiday season, the Friends of Gillette Castle volunteer organization decorate the castle and the grounds with festive Christmas decorations. Visitors can tour the massive home in all of its holiday splendor. My family and I loved exploring the interior of the castle. The gorgeous rooms are even more beautiful with all of the Christmas trees, wreaths, ornaments, nutcrackers and other various holiday accents. Of course, there were quite a few Sherlock Holmes artifacts scattered around as well. Mrs. Claus was also in attendance distributing cups of hot apple cider to visitors. We also really liked seeing the miniature locomotives at the Visitors' Center: some of the only remaining relics of Mr. Gillette's cherished miniature railroad. read more

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Beautiful drive here this morning from Hartford to East Haddam, CT. It's late in the autumnal season but still plenty of fall foliage in yellows oranges and reds to admire. We unfortunately could not visit the visitor's center or the inside of the castle because they are closed after early October for redecorating the interior for the winter holiday season. We explored the grounds along two nicely up-kept trails down to the Connecticut River's edge, with more deciduous trees as well as evergreens giving beautiful shade. It must be gorgeous when it snows here. If you're visiting there are several pretty areas with benches, perfect for a picnic. read more

Gillette Castle State Park - Gillette castle - Parks Near Me - East Haddam, Connecticut

How to describe Gillette Castle? It's a castle in Connecticut, designed and built by William Gillette, who was an American actor who popularized Sherlock Holmes in American theater in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. And it's a must visit if you enjoy interesting architecture! Gillette lived in the home (with his cats - he was a widower that never remarried) from 1919 until his death in 1937. He called the house "Seventh Sister," but it was renamed Gillette Castle by the State of Connecticut when it created a state park out of the house and lands. The house cost over a $1 million at the time it was built, which is incredible. It's a three-story (plus tower), 24-room, 14,000 sq ft home/castle made of wood, cement, and local Connecticut fieldstone. It's an arts and crafts gem that I had never heard of and didn't know anything about until I began researching where to go when we began planning our trip to Connecticut. The tour is self-guided, but starts only at designated start times. There is a docent in each room, so you get a short explanation of the room - its architecture and information about how Gillette used it (and he was a quirky guy - the docents have plenty of fun stories). And if you're like me, you can ask a million questions, too! But you absolutely must book your tour ahead of time!!! We arrived for our 11:45am tour, and people who showed up around that time were told that they couldn't join a tour until 2pm (the earlier tours were all sold out). The castle is amazing. Some of the rooms really made my jaw drop to the floor. And the docents have great stories about the castle and Gillette (he was friends with lots of important people - Charlie Chaplin visited the house! As did Albert Einstein!). And those Connecticut River views! Definitely a must visit if you're in the area! read more

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Gillette Castle State Park has a large parking lot, and the visitor center has clean bathrooms, a gift shop, and refreshments. The grounds are well kept with beautiful walking trails, and an amazing views of the Connecticut river. There are picnic tables spread throughout the property. We purchased tickets for a self-guided tour of the inside of the castle that was built in 1919 to be the home for William Gillette the actor, director, playwright, who was famous for portraying Sherlock Holmes, and his many cats. This is a great day trip well worth seeing for kids, and adults to enjoy. read more

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I visited Gillette Castle on a Saturday the last one before the season changed to weekend-only tours. We bought tickets around 12 PM and were able to get a showing at 2:45 PM. Tickets are very reasonable at only $6 each, with no extra taxes or fees. Just note that tickets must be purchased online before you arrive. There's a large parking lot near the entrance, along with a visitor center and a small shack that sells snacks and ice cream. The visitor center also has bathrooms, though honestly, they're not great they felt more like indoor porta-potties. As for the castle itself, check-in was smooth. Tours run every 15 minutes in small groups. First, you gather in the foyer where a guide gives a short introduction, then move through areas like the living room, kitchen, and bar with different guides offering fun facts along the way. After that, you're free to explore the upstairs bedrooms on your own. The whole experience takes about 30 minutes or less. The castle has beautiful views outside, perfect for photos (though no videos are allowed inside). While I was there, I even saw a couple having wedding photos taken and a small reception being set up with one long table, it looked so intimate and pretty. Beyond the castle, the surrounding park is lovely for picnics, biking, or just walking the trails. Overall, it's a quick but worthwhile stop with gorgeous scenery and a unique historic charm. read more

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This was a beautiful castle and we were glad that we decided to visit. We got tickets there without any issues. We walked around the outside of the castle before our tour. There is a beautiful view of the Connecticut River below and lots of walkable trails around the park. We enjoyed the tour inside the castle. Each floor had a docent to receive the guests and tell us a little about Gillette and his castle. It's so interesting and we learned a lot about its history as well as funny stories about its owner/builder. We didn't feel rushed at all. read more

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What a stunning castle! The craftsmanship is simply exquisite--from the grand staircase and sturdy stone walls to the finely crafted doors and even the thoughtfully placed couches. For a man known first as an actor and writer, Gillette was truly a remarkable visionary. The self-guided tour was delightful. Friendly staff were stationed throughout the castle, ready to share fascinating details and little-known stories about Gillette and his incredible home. A wonderful glimpse into a bygone era, lovingly preserved! read more

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Finally made it to this state park, unfortunately the tours of the castle were closed when we went this weekend. The grounds are beautiful and very clean. The castle is impressive with beautiful views. They have a large parking lot and visitor center with bathrooms. I'd definitely return in season to tour the inside of the castle. read more

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This is a beautiful spot. We've been here a couple of times. First time we took a tour of the castle with the family. It was very interesting. Even the kids enjoyed it. Second time we came to hike the property. There are several marked paths throughout. We picked one that went down to the river. There are picnic tables down there where you can enjoy a meal along the river as well as two little beach areas. I have no idea is swimming is allowed here so if that interests you, check first please. A ferry runs in this area. The park opens at 8am and closes at sunset. The Castle is only open for scheduled tours and is closed between mid-December and the end of May. You can find dates, times and purchase tickets on their website. Tickets are non-refundable within one week of your tour date, however, to be sure you get a spot, it is recommended you book ahead of time. A very small wedding ceremony (not the reception) can be held here for twenty guests or less, but only outside the Castle and only at specific times. See their site for important information and call them to reserve. As this is a public park, you can choose to hold a ceremony anywhere in the park without prior authorization as long as you understand the public may 'crash' your ceremony. The grounds are beautiful. The house is so interesting. Ticket prices for the tour are reasonable and they have a pass for a family of four that covers three State Parks in one ticket. You can make a day trip at this location if you plan your tour, take a hike and pack a meal to enjoy. Picnic tables are spread around the property. Trails are nicely maintained, however they are not all smooth going. Besides roots and rocks, some trails have steps, so strollers won't work. Check out the trail type before heading out. There is a large parking lot near the visitor center and restrooms are located inside. Pets are permitted on a leash in picnic areas and on trail but not in the castle or it's surrounding decks. Definitely worth a visit imho. read more

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Wow. What cool house and hiking trails. The house was renovated and is in excellent shape read more

Gillette Castle State Park - William Gillette - Parks Near Me - East Haddam, Connecticut

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After a crazy busy week at work and I need some nature... Gillette Castle in East Haddam.. what a PLACE! We walked over 3 miles and all around the castle with the dogs, some of the most beautiful scenes of Connecticut River with the stunning sunset we found a stream and a sneaky dark walking tunnel. There was a couple there having a gothic theme revival wedding which I thought was EPIC, black dress and gothic theme pictures, perfect! Dog friendly with a visitor center, bathrooms, ample parking, incredible views, snacks and drinks and during the summer a small cafe. It wasn't open when we went but that could have been the day or time (Sunday afternoon) read more

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Beautiful, amazing property and castle! I would highly recommend going in. I went on a bad day where the computer was broken and to register for a ticket online is extremely cumbersome. Once you get inside, they give you a little bit of history, but no tour! Absolutely gorgeous, and worth the visit. read more

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It's a beautiful park, and I really enjoyed walking there with my friends. I'm looking forward to returning and enjoying it this summer. read more

Gillette Castle State Park - Parks Near Me - East Haddam, Connecticut

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We went a bit out of our way to visit the castle and are so very glad we did, it's definitely worth it! We learned everything we didn't know (which was nothing) about William Gillette and how he amassed his fortunes with Sherlock Holmes! We saw one of his plays being reenacted, secret passages, gorgeous views and 47 unique doors in his "pile of rocks"! They've restored the castle to greatness and there isn't a tiny hint of the 17 cats that once lived there other than their toys and knickknack likenesses! Be prepared to walk with comfy shoes and buy your castle tour tickets early, they sell out! If no tickets are available you're still able to walk fully around the castle and peek in the windows to get an idea of Williams talents. read more

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Hidden gem in CT! Well informed guides and enthusiast 'friends/volunteers'. It started to rain so not much time to spend walking the grounds but will definitely go back for that. Great time of year for sightseeing as all the leaves are gone providing clear views of CT River valley. read more

I went here with my 3 kids on a weekday and we had a blast! The tour guides were awesome and we had a great time exploring the home and the rest of the property. There are plenty of hiking trails on the property too to fill an entire day. I highly recommend giving this place a try! read more

I loved loved loved my experience here. The castle tour is wonderful. There are parts that are guided and there are parts you are on your own. You have to reserve tickets in advance as it sells out quickly . While shopping in the gift shop, I witnessed a lot of people being told tours were sold out. I love a good castle tour and this was right up my alley. The hiking trail was a extra plus. Definitely the highlight of visiting my friend in Connecticut. Definitely come check this out. read more

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Gillette's Castle is a true hidden gem. Over 100 years old this home of actor, playwright, author and train enthusiast is well kept and fascinating look back in time. The history of the property and its design are fascinating. From the design of the doors and door locks (no two are the same) to the theatrical flare of the home. To the shear marvel of the craftsmanship that a small number of artisans created in a relatively small span of time. The actor's development of the character of Sherlock Holmes is an amazing story of talent and chance. From having never read Arthur Conan Doyle to collaborating with Doyle to bring Sherlock Holmes to the stage, William Gillette created the personification of Holmes that is recognized even today. The personal train that once ran 3+ miles around the property is gone but hikers can still walk the "rails to trails" paths. The steam train served its life out at Lake Compounce park in Bristol, but a restored electric engines is available for viewing in the visitors center along with some of the original cars. Prepare to spend a few hours admiring the landscape, the gorgeous views of the Connecticut River, the castle and its architecture, and of course the man whose vision brought it all together read more

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Came here in the fall not knowing that Gillette Castle Museum was already closed for the season...one of my friends suggested coming here but didn't do their research. However, we made the most of the day trip and with the nice weather was able to do some hiking, see the grounds of Gillette Castle. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and stay on the hiking trail. There is a steeper trail (short cut) that brings you to the castle...we did both trails. LOL To get the to the park, can either drive and/or the the ferry. Check the schedule when the ferry runs and time accordingly. If too many cars, will have to wait for the next ferry. Will have to come back during the normal season to go inside the museum. Was nice to get some hiking and pictures of the grounds and the views of the CT river. read more

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Gillette Castle is truly a CT gem that you need to check out! Here's the scoop: The castle is open to the public for self-guided tours, but you need to purchase a ticket to get in. Timed tickets can be purchased online, which is recommended. They are also available at the visitor's center once you get there, but they do sell out, so better to be safe. The castle is open from daily from 10AM-4PM seasonally. An adult ticket is only $6, so you really can't go wrong... Once you get there, there's a large parking lot. There's also a visitor's center with a small gift shop, a theater area with a short film about William Gillette, and bathrooms. There's also a snack bar, but it's apparently closed for the 2023 season. The castle is just a short walk from the visitor's center. It's a self-guided tour, but there are tour guides stationed throughout the castle to answer any questions you may have and give you some history on William Gillette. The guides were very knowledgeable. The inside of the castle is very cool, and there are so many amazing details that Gillette himself put into place. Non-flash photography is allowed inside, but no video. It took me about 45-minutes to walk through the whole place. The grounds are beautiful to walk around (and are open all year round, even when the castle is not). There are picnic areas and hiking trails on the property. Overall a very cool piece of CT history! read more

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You can purchase a ticket for the self-guided tour online for $6. I recommend purchasing your tickets ahead of time since the time slots do get sold out. I didn't really know much about William Gillette, but learning more about him throughout the tour made me love the castle more. The guides are so sweet and informative. Once I learned that William Gillette was the first actor who played Sherlock Holmes, I started geeking out. The more I learned about him, the more I felt like he had the perfect personality to play the iconic role. He was very witty. He also really loved cats. There were cat stuff all over the castle, it was adorable! read more

Gillette Castle State Park - Gillette Castle - Parks Near Me - East Haddam, Connecticut

The former home of the late actor and portrayer of Sherlock Holmes on stage. Amazing exhibits.

Hours worth of fun. Every little thing about this "castle" was memorable. Every little thing Mr. Gillette had built had a meaningful reason for it. Absolutely beautiful and brilliant in every way. Tour Guides were very kind and helpful. Very informative and fun!!! read more

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Who doesn't love visiting a castle? Our family field trip took us here today. Fall foliage was colorful & crisp air was perfect weather. The visitor center was closed (boo), but the concession stand open & restrooms available. I loved the land the castle is on. It is nestled high above the river, providing breathtaking views. Built for an actor in 1919 who resided with his numerous cats! He willed the property to the state & it became a state park in 1943. We couldn't go inside the castle- apparently used for special occasions & completely modern. But the charm outside was enchanting. read more

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Great architectural site. Fascinating house and grounds. Wished they'd bring the train back. Great views of the rover and a great place for walks. And you get to take the worlds smallest ferry to get there! read more

Gillette Castle State Park - Gillette's Castle - Parks Near Me - East Haddam, Connecticut

Wonderful, beautiful, fascinating, interesting, historic and educational MUST SEE site built by the talented, creative, writer, playwright and actor THE ingenius William Gillette a .k. a. actIR SHERLOCK HOLMES! read more

Gillette Castle State Park - Parks Near Me - East Haddam, Connecticut

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Magnificent grounds Excellent self-guided tour docents Stunning setting I'd had Gillette Castle on my to-do list for a while, but it took until an adventurous holiday weekend to make the time, and I'm thrilled my family and I did. The drive into East Haddam was enjoyable in its own right, but entering the grounds felt like being transported back in time - lush grounds, old-growth trees, stonework bridges, and winding paths back toward the castle. As we wound past the entry to the castle itself to the parking lot, I was glad it was somewhat obscured - it saved the big reveal for walking in. We did the visitors center briefly to read a little background and buy tickets (very reasonable at $6/adults). As we made our way over for the tour, we got a better sense of the uniqueness of the lot, the walkway approach, and the structure itself - and while that was impressive enough, the view as we made our way up to "Grand Central Station" overlooking the Connecticut River was legitimately a wow moment. Outstanding. The self-guided tour had just enough informational postings to give you a sense of the elements you were seeing without breaking up the scenery, and a few points throughout the house had docents giving deeper background that I enjoyed. For example, I had never made the connection that Sir Arthur Conan Doyle didn't write "elementary, my dear Watson" - Gillette did. The evolution of Sherlock Holmes' look was also mostly Gillette's work as he adapted the character for the stage. Even just a few moments of digesting the information available was enlightening. The castle's style itself may not be to everyone's liking, but it's very special and worth seeing nevertheless. Bonus points here if you enjoy woodwork, turn of the century fire safety, stonework, scenic vistas, and cats. I recommend putting this on your list. read more

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I absolutely loved this castle! I am not really one that loves to visit museums and stuff like this because I get bored really quickly, but this castle peaked my interest! I loved it!! Very beautiful inside!! Mr. Gillette was quite an interesting man with lots of hidden surprises in his castle! Somewhat mystical. The grounds are lovely as well. Be sure to check it out!! read more

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We were leaf popping with our dog and decided to visit this state park that is situated high above the Connecticut river. Since our furr baby has shown no interest in being a service dog, we limited our visit to touring the grounds which are beautiful and well maintained. A return visit next when the castle reopens will likely occur. read more

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My first ever visit was in 2018 after hearing so much about the castle and its surprising that I never came here before as I was born in CT and heard so much about Gillette Castle over the many years I lived in CT. The home is an amazing building, it is enormous and the views down the CT River are spectacular. The grounds are well kept, there are trails and a museum as well. The docents explain so much about the details of the home and about Mr. Gillette and his visitors. It is a great Connecticut treasure for residents and visitors to see and learn more about our state's history and those who had a part in that history. You can bring lunch and enjoy a picnic at one of the tables around the park or you can visit the on site restaurant. read more

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What a great place to visit! Rich with historic value and amazing scenery! New England at its finest! read more

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Unfortunately we were misinformed. They said on channel 8 news that the castle was open today but unfortunately it was not. read more

Gillette Castle State Park - Parks Near Me - East Haddam, Connecticut

Such a beautiful location for a hike and outdoor exploration! My family drove here for a fun day trip and had such a great time. Unfortunately the inside of the castle was closed due to Covid but we were able to explore the beautiful grounds. We took the ferry there which I recommend for an extra fun activity and great views. read more

Gillette Castle State Park - View from the ferry - Parks Near Me - East Haddam, Connecticut

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Gorgeous. That's probably an understatement. The stones, the view from the deck in the back of the castle, even the visitor center. The pictures definitely don't do this place justice. You must come visit to experience this for yourself. Tip to single guys: if you want to impress a woman you're dating, take her here! Especially during the sunset. It's breathtaking. Sherlock Holmes fans should make their way here while it's still standing. This castle was built for the creator and actor of the original Sherlock Holmes. A couple of neat facts and artifacts of his are in the visitor center. The castle itself was not open when we came because it's off season, but I'll definitely be back in March when it re-opens. My bf noticed that along the edges of the castle the rocks were protruding out from the corner. I learned sooooooo long ago in school that it was for a battling tactic. It was so cool to see that. FYI: Bathrooms are in the visitor center. If you like hiking, there's a trail (not sure of the length) along the river. Great scenic hike :) Heels are a bad idea as there is very little flat surface here. Do yourself a favor and wear sneakers or boots. You'll thank yourself when you leave. Make sure that you don't forget your camera and make sure that your phone is charged. You'll want to snap tons of selfies at this gorgeous place! Will I be back? Yup! Would I recommend? Absolutely! This is a must-see! read more

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The eccentric William Gillette was a director, playwright and acclaimed actor of his day. He is particularly noted for his portrayal of "Sherlock Holmes". His portrayal enscribed most of the characteristics of the Sherlock Holmes character that we know today, more so than Arthur Conan Doyle's writings. He died in 1937. He did most of his professional work in the early 1900 hundreds. It was then in 1914 that he commissioned and designed Gillette Castle and grounds on a stretch of land along the Connecticut river called the "Seven SIsters", a group of seven rolling hills. In 1943 the Connecticut government took possession of the estate and 1981 Gillette Castle was placed on the National Registry of Historical Places.Today you can visit Gillette Castle State Park for free. The grounds are beautiful. There is a pond and hiking trails which are maintained. Some of the trails follow the railroad tracks which Gillette built and take you through a dark tunnel, over stone bridges and offer amazing views of the Connecticut river. The Fall foliage is outstanding. At the base of the hill and near the Connecticut river banks is a theater were many theatrical performances take place throughout the year. The visitor's center has restrooms, historical memorabilia and personal effects of Gillette, as well as, a 15 minute video of Gillette's life and history of the estate. If you want to see the inside of the 24 room castle it is $6 (13+), $2 (6-12) and 5 and under are free. There is no parking fee either. If you do take the tour know that it is a one way tour. You can't go back and look, so take your time at each location. The first floor is the living area. The second floor are where the bedrooms are. The third floor is the art room showcase. What is unique about the house are the 47 hand crafted southern pine doors, none of which are alike and the unusual door knobs and wood latches. The system of hidden mirrors that Gillette used to watch visitor's to the estate is another unique feature of the castle.. Gillette Castle is decorated for the holiday season and draws many visitors. read more

Gillette Castle State Park - Gillette Castle - Parks Near Me - East Haddam, Connecticut

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My friend and I brought her son and nephew to the castle and this was my first time here too. I'm not sure what I thought I was going to so I didn't know what to expect. Getting there was pretty easy but the lack of cell service was a drag. Upon arrival, there was plenty of parking and the entry process was easy (they take credit card at the registration table). Touring the castle was fun and the views were quite spectacular. This is more so for kids so don't expect much as an adult. read more

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I have lived in the area for year. At this point I will have to say it for hiking and walking. Only. Once you could go inside, but not for years. But I will say, morning walk with a coffee and smile is a great start of the day. An afternoon hike with your dog, a friend and a camera makes the afternoon. Take a day and enjoy this wonderful old property. read more

Inside of Castle was closed due to COVID-19 but the grounds are beautiful with amazing views! read more

Gillette Castle State Park - Parks Near Me - East Haddam, Connecticut

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Beautiful view and building. Not open right now due to covid. Would definitely come back to your inside castle. read more

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This castle was quite a sight to see in my exploration of Connecticut. This castle straddles along both East Haddam and Lyme. This castle used to be the private home of William Gilette. He portrayed the character Sherlock Holmes. The castle however, is now the property of the state and has seasonal tours where you can go inside. The state park itself is a lovely place to walk around and enjoy nature. I can imagine on a warm day this place is even more enjoyable. I highly recommend taking a gander if you're in the area. read more

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