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Hammond Castle Museum

80 Hesperus Ave

Gloucester, MA 01930

978-283-2080

Hammond Castle Museum was the home and laboratory of John Hays Hammond Jr. and now serves as a museum, cultural arts center and venue welcoming guests daily throughout the season.

Hammond is known as “The Father of Radio Control,” and was one of America’s most prolific inventors of his time. Built from 1926 through 1929, and incorporated as a museum in 1930, the castle’s architectural style is a mix of a medieval castle, medieval French village, and a Gothic cathedral. It was custom built to encompass Hammond’s private residence, laboratory, and museum quality collection of architectural elements from his travels throughout Europe. Also on display is Hammond’s extensive list of patents, his work with radio control and his work on guided torpedoes for the military.

Visitors to the Museum can explore many of the rooms, including the Great Hall, indoor courtyard, inventions exhibit room, library, War Room, and much more. Visitors may also enjoy the beauty of the castle grounds and rocky Atlantic coast.

The Museum offers guided and self-guided tours and numerous educational and cultural events throughout the season. Candlelight Tours and Spiritualism Tours are offered on Thursday evenings in August, September, October and Candlelight Tours are offered throughout December. Check the website for the current schedule of events. Annual memberships are available. The Museum is also available for private and corporate rentals year-round. Parking is always free.

Hammond Castle Museum is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. At nearly a century old, Hammond Castle Museum is not handicapped accessible. Advanced ticket reservations are encouraged. Reserve your tickets at www.hammondcastle.org .

May – October: Daily Guided & Self-Guided Tours: 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. The Museum Shop and Museum close at 4:00 pm.

November & December: Weekends & Special Days.

August, September, October & December: Thursday night Candlelight & Spiritualism Tours

(See website for more information.)

Drawbridge photo credit: Travel Like A Local MA

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Visiting Hammond Castle: A Medieval Castle in Gloucester MA

July 18, 2022

Anna Hammerschmidt

On the edge of a steep bluff in Massachusetts, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, sits the imposing Hammond Castle , a replica of a medieval castle. Hammond Castle is not something you would expect to find along the coast of Cape Ann, Massachusetts. While many impressive estates exist in New England, medieval castles are not the standard. Visiting Hammond Castle is one of the best things to do in Cape Ann . The grounds of Hammond Castle allow you to get a view of the castle and the Atlantic Ocean, while inside, you can learn more about the castle on a tour or self-guided visit.

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission when you purchase a product or book a stay through these links at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

About Hammond Castle

Now you may be wondering what a medieval castle is doing in Massachusetts. Seriously, this castle looks like it was plucked out of Europe. But no need to dust off your passport to visit Hammond Castle.

John Hays Hammond, Jr. built Hammond Castle in the late 1920s. John Hays Hammond, Jr. was a scientist and inventor who traveled extensively, primarily through Europe. Inspired by his travels, John Hays Hammond, Jr. built Hammond Castle, blending several periods of medieval architecture. So while medieval in design, it is certainly much more modern than medieval times.

Hammond Castle served as Hammond’s residence until he died in 1965. Today, the castle is open to the public for visits and available for rental for special events. 

Where is Hammond Castle

Hammond Castle is located in Gloucester, Massachusetts. Gloucester is one of the four towns within the Cape Ann Peninsula. More specifically, Hammond Castle is situated cliff side overlooking the Atlantic coast. Its location is one of the many things that make Hammond Castle so incredible. You can even see the castle from one of the many boat tours from Gloucester, including Cape Ann Whale Watch .

Visiting Hammond Castle

Visiting Hammond Castle is one of the best things to do in Gloucester, Massachusetts . This castle is truly spectacular. Both the exterior and interior of Hammond Castle are intricately designed, and the coastal views from the grounds are unparalleled. You will want to carve out some time in your day to visit this medieval castle, as there is so much to see.

How Much Time do you Need to Visit Hammond Castle?

An hour to 1.5 hours is sufficient time to visit Hammond Castle. This time will allow you to take the guided tour or walk around each room on your own, visit the grounds and take some photos. I was there for a little over one hour, which was plenty of time for a leisurely visit.

Hammond Castle Tickets

Price: Adults $20; Senior Citizens (65 yrs +) $15; Children (ages 5 to 12) $10 * A portion of the grounds at Hammond Castle is free to visit without a ticket

Hammond Castle Hours

The visiting hours differ throughout the year. Please note the visiting hours below:

• November and December: Open Friday through Sunday, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
• April: Open Friday through Sunday, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. 
• May through October: Open daily from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Hammond Castle Grounds

The grounds of Hammond Castle are incredible. Wandering around the grounds is the best way to appreciate the medieval architecture of the castle as well as the cliffside setting overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

One of the first spots that will strike you is the small garden with a stone wall with open windows that perfectly frame the sea. This spot is one of the most photographed spots at Hammond Castle. You don’t even need a ticket to visit this spot. However, I highly suggest paying for entry as you do not want to miss the rest of Hammond Castle.

Beyond this garden is a set of stairs that lead down to a lower garden. This garden is still quite lovely, yet it doesn’t offer views you can see in other parts of the castle.

The main part of the grounds at Hammond Castle can only be accessed through the castle. This area consists of a lawn overlooking the ocean . The lawn is set between the castle and the cliffside, allowing you to appreciate the stunning architecture of Hammond Castle and the view of the water. This is the best place to get a full view of Hammond Castle.

Do not miss seeing the drawbridge , which is tucked away to the side of the castle. This bridge leading to a door to Hammond Castle is a further example of the medieval architecture elements in the design of this castle.

Hammond Castle Interior

The interior of Hammond Castle is an absolute treat. With opulent bedrooms, a dream library, and a courtyard that is a breath of fresh air amongst the otherwise medieval interior design elements.

One of the best places in Hammond Castle is the stunning courtyard . The courtyard is both beautiful and genius. The courtyard is full of tropical plants and a large pool. The pool acts as the source of water to create a humid climate in the courtyard. Yet, that’s not all. A weather control system in the courtyard allows it to rain. This is great for tropical plants and is such a unique feature.

There are various rooms to explore at Hammond Castle, so be sure to wander around. My favorite rooms aside from the courtyard are the Great Hall, the library, and the guest rooms.

Visiting Hammond Castle: Wrap-up

Hammond Castle is well worth a visit while in Cape Ann. This medieval castle is unlike anything you find in Massachusetts or the United States. It is unique and beautiful and allows you to live out a fairytale moment in coastal Massachusetts. 

If you liked this post, check out these other posts about Cape Ann: The 10 Best Things to do in Cape Ann

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Hammond Castle Museum

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Communities > Gloucester, Massachusetts > Hammond Castle Museum

John Hays Hammond Jr., known as “The Father of Radio Control,” was one of America’s most prolific inventors and a protégé of Guglielmo Marconi, Nikola Tesla, Thomas Edison, and Alexander Graham Bell. Built from 1926 through 1929, and incorporated as a museum in 1930, the castle’s architectural style is a mix of a medieval castle, medieval French village, and a Gothic cathedral. It was custom built to encompass Hammond’s private residence, laboratory, and museum quality collection of architectural elements from his travels throughout Europe. Also on display is Hammond’s extensive list of patents, his work with radio control and his work on guided torpedoes for the military.

Visitors to the Museum can explore many of the rooms, including the Great Hall, indoor courtyard, inventions exhibit room, library, War Room, and much more. Visitors may also enjoy the beauty of the castle grounds and rocky Atlantic coast.

Hammond Castle Museum is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  The Museum offers guided tours and numerous educational and cultural events throughout its season. Annual Memberships are offered.

At nearly a century old, Hammond Castle Museum is not handicapped accessible. Advanced ticket reservations are encouraged. Reserve your tickets at  www.hammondcastle.org .

80 Hesperus Avenue Gloucester, MA 1930

Driving Directions

Drive North on Route 128 until you reach exit 14. At the end of the exit ramp turn right onto Route 133 toward Gloucester. Stay on route 133 until the end of that highway. With the harbor in front of you take another right onto Route 127 South (Western Avenue). About a mile and a half down Route 127 south look for a left hand turn marked Hesperus Avenue. You can see the green street sign about a third of the way up a telephone pole on your left, but more importantly there is a small blue sign on a that pole which says “Hammond Castle”. Turn left at these signs and the Castle Parking Lot is three quarters of a mile down Hesperus also on the left. You will see the entrance. Park and walk to the East end of the parking lot and walk down the stairs. The castle itself is straight ahead of you.

http://www.hammondcastle.org

Notes & Advisories

In addition to guided tours, Hammond Castle Museum offers a number of educational programs and prearranged tour opportunities for school and tour groups. Hammond Castle Museum is not handicapped accessible.

• Historic Resources

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• Appropriate for all ages
• Parking Available
• Restrooms Available
• Self-Guided

Hammond Castle Museum

Hours updated 3 weeks ago

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Review Highlights

“ . Hammond's fascination with castles and all things medieva l is infectious, or it rubbed off on me at least ” in 5 reviews

“ Built in the 1920s by John Hammond Jr as a wedding present, it combines architecture from 3 different centuries on a cliff overlooking Gloucester Harbor. ” in 2 reviews

“ He is consider a pioneer in remote control (he remotely piloted the ship Natalia from Gloucester Harbor to Boston. ” in 2 reviews

Location & Hours

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80 Hesperus Ave

Gloucester, MA 01930

Upcoming Special Hours

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About the Business

A castle and museum lying on the shores of the Gloucester Harbor. Home to John Hays Hammond Jr., the Museum features an eclectic assortment of art, science, history, architecture, and a medieval atmosphere. …

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My niece got married over the summer... it was fairy tale wedding venue with an old style charm. Small wedding of 100 guests and perfect venue. Loved the gothic castle and it's Indoor/ Outdoor space. Highly recommend good shoes and warn all seniors of the cobblestone pathways

See all photos from Padma A. for Hammond Castle Museum

The Hammond Castle Museum is a really neat mansion of an eccentric millionaire and his eclectic collection of items! The tour guides are very knowledgeable and teach you a lot about the rare artifacts on display at the mansion. It's a really neat experience and certainly a one of a kind house and has really great views of Gulf of Maine. It is very reasonably priced as well.

See all photos from Jonathan H. for Hammond Castle Museum

On a recent family trip to Massachusetts, I made a point of visiting Hammond Castle (which I had done back in 1990 and had fond memories). It was just as I remembered - huge and so unique! We had tickets for a partial guided tour, followed by a self-guided tour to explore all the nooks and crannies (inside and out). Everyone really liked it and it was worth the trek.

This was a very cool museum that was the former home of an inventor who held many patents, some of which we would recognize and be thankful for today. What is so usual about it is the way it changes architectural styles as you make your way through. It's centerpiece is one of the largest pipe organs in the world. The water views are also magnificent. We chose to do the guided tour and while it was informative, we were a bit surprised when the tour ended and we were told to view the rest of the home ourselves. It appeared that those who opted for the self-guided tour were provided with some sort of map, which would have been helpful for our self-guided portion. It was an enjoyable stop in Gloucester, MA and I would recommend it.

See all photos from Michelle S. for Hammond Castle Museum

I lucked out. I got Eric for my tour guide and while it was a big tour of 20+ people, it didn't matter. Eric is definitely passionate about his job and he knows. And I do believe he loves what he goes. The Hammond Castle is a one-hour trip from downtown Boston and yes, there is the West Gloucester MBTA station that is a 3.5 mile drive if you want try for an Uber or Lyft. The castle has parking and because this is rather rural Massachusetts, they thankfully have a wifi because I got no bars out here. Two hours of wandering, in addition to the 45 minute tour. You'll learn about inventor John Hays Hammond, Jr and his wife Irene. He is consider a pioneer in remote control (he remotely piloted the ship Natalia from Gloucester Harbor to Boston. This technology was used for remote-controlled torpedoes, for instance. Lots to see in the castle, much of which has been restored to the original decorations and displays his collection of eccentric and interesting artworks. And of course, the view from the garden is amazing. Well worth a visit! [Review 17884 overall - 1131 in Massachusetts - 1405 of 2022.]

See all photos from Bruce K. for Hammond Castle Museum

A Castle full of amazing history and items, no doubt. Outside is beautiful but inside was packed, tight spaces and I felt claustrophobic. Beautiful, but I don't know that I'd pay to visit.

See all photos from Kayse K. for Hammond Castle Museum

This castle is absolutely amazing. The owner John Hammond made this castle absolutely magnificent. Parking is free on the side of the road. There is a moat but it is non functioning. The interesting fact about this tour is that the owner John Hammond is known for his plethora of inventions and patents. Most of what we do is thanks to him as well. Highly appreciated and highly recommended

See all photos from Nick G. for Hammond Castle Museum

What an unexpected, fun, quirky place to visit! We bought tickets for a guided tour (same price as self guided!). We ended up being the only two people on the tour so we had a personalized experience. Our tour guide was very informative and the personal flair made this a great stop! Views are lovely, items are intriguing and the history of Hammond's life were so interesting to learn. Def recommend!

Favorite room on the tour

We held a family wedding there. Venue was ours until 11 pm. We were forewarned that in order to clear the way for dancing, two of the tables would be taken away. The crew decided to clear all of the tables with at least another hour to go before the wedding ended. People left Way before the end since they were practically thrown out of their seats.

I first visited the Hammond Castle when I attended a wedding here back in August of '02, and, truth be told, the place still looks as beautiful today as it did that day way back two decades ago! Plenty of parking. Great facilities for eating, meeting, and marrying! Wonderful staff. Just a joy to be here and walk around. Best described as "...an oddball of a Newport Mansion on the North Shore." Highly recommended! 11OCT2022

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Hammond Castle Museum

Home » Things to Do » Hammond Castle Museum

80 Hesperus Avenue Gloucester, MA

978-283-2080

Open April - November 10am - 4pm see website for tickets

https://www.hammondcastle.org/

• Motorcoach Parking: No
• ADA Compliant: No
• Pet Friendly: No
• Function Space Available: No
• Family Friendly: No

Hammond Castle Museum offers guided and self-guided tours, specialty Candlelight and Spiritualism Tours, and numerous educational and cultural events April–December. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

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Privacy Overview

You Can Tour A Majestic Medieval Castle Just An Hour Outside Of Boston

Live out your fairytale fantasy in this seaside castle fit for a king or queen. The best part? It's less than an hour outside Boston!

Have you ever caught yourself daydreaming about what it’d be like to live as royalty in medieval times? Well, you have the unique opportunity to walk through Hammond Castle- an epic fairytale proportions less than an hour outside of Boston!

Hammond Castle is located on a bluff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean in the quaint town of Gloucester . An unmissable part of the landscape, this European style castle was constructed between 1926 and 1929, and has a plethora of history behind its construction in Massachusetts.

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The castle was formerly the home and laboratory of John Hays Hammond, Jr. , an inventor and pioneer in the study of remote control. His work was so prolific that he held over four hundred patents in his lifetime.

However, Hammond was often described as being “a man of the future who chose to live in the past”. He was an avid collector of art and artifacts. Thus, he created his residence around large stone archways, windows, wooden facades, and other architectural elements from the Old World.

The castle brings together a unique combination of art, architectural elements, and culture. The architectural styles of the building feature 15th-, 16th-, and 18th-century architectural elements, and it sits on a rocky cliff overlooking Gloucester Harbor.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hammond Castle Museum (@hammondcastlemuseum)

Today, the castle operates as the Hammond Castle Museum , displaying Hammond’s collection of Roman, medieval, and Renaissance artifacts as well as exhibits about his life and inventions. Highlights of the tour include Great Hall, which will make you feel like you’ve stepped inside Harry Potter or Game of Thrones, and a gigantic pipe organ, which some of the greatest organists in the world were invited to play.

Hammond Castle Museum is open daily for guided and self-guided tours. Tickets are $20 for adults, with special discounts for children and senior citizens. Find more information at their website .

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Admission prices & discounts for tickets to Hammond Castle Museum in Gloucester

The following overview lists the admission prices and various discounts and discount codes for a visit to Hammond Castle Museum in Gloucester . All prices are displayed per age group or reduced rate group. You can also directly book your discounted online ticket for the Hammond Castle Museum here, if available, or make a reservation to reserve a timeslot if applicable.

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More about Hammond Castle Museum

Why Visit Hammond Castle Museum On Cape Ann?

Experience the beauty and charm of New England

A Closer Look at Hammond Castle Museum.  

Gloucester is one of Massachusetts’ best-kept secrets.

The picturesque coastal town is home to lovely hikes , an active fishing community, rocky beaches, and beautiful places to stay .

Nestled in the Magnolia area of Gloucester is a sweeping enclave known as Hammond Castle. The estate, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and a rich history that visitors won’t want to miss.

We’ll touch on the history of the property shortly. In the meantime, be sure to add 80 Hesperus Avenue to your travel itinerary.

History of Hammond Castle

Built between 1926 and 1929, Hammond Castle was the home and laboratory of renowned inventor John Hays Hammond, Jr. The famed Gloucester resident—a protégé of Alexander Graham Bell—held over 800 patents on more than 400 inventions during his lifetime. Known as the “Father of Radio Control,” Hammond’s inventions gave him the means to construct one of Cape Ann’s most treasured places.

Hammond engaged Boston-based architectural firm Allen & Collens to design his dream residence, sparing no expense. Originally, the castle was going to be a tower built on Hammond’s father’s Lookout Hill compound about a mile away. He changed his mind a year later, requesting a modest redesign that would reduce the height and overall footprint of the tower, while maintaining the structure’s style.

Though today Hammond Castle is a medieval wonder, the building process was rife with roadblocks. At one point, Hammond’s parents demanded he leave their property. The inventor responded by purchasing a brand-new lot near Norman’s Woe reef, making the final castle the product of yet another redesign.

While the exterior of the castle consists of granite mined from Cape Ann hillsides, the interior features remarkable windows and doorways imported from European castles and churches. Visitors will find a drawbridge, a library, a pipe organ, and so much more.

Hammond lived on the property until his death in 1965. Today Hammond Castle doubles as an event venue and a museum, with the lovely interior filled with the inventor’s extensive collection of Renaissance artwork and ancient artifacts. The manicured grounds are gorgeous and well worth the visit.

Hammond Castle Museum

Today visitors can explore the expansive Hammond Castle Museum, touring the property’s rooms and wandering the stunning castle grounds. The views of the shoreline are second-to-none, not to mention accessible to the general public.

The museum is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. from June through September (and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in October and May). In November, December, and April, the museum is open Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

With both guided and self-guided tours available, Hammond Castle is well worth a visit at any time of year. The price of admission is $20 for adults, $15 for seniors, and $10 for children. Kids under 4 may enter for free. The museum isn’t ADA-accessible at this time, as it can be challenging to renovate places on the national preservation list .

The towering castle stands 81 feet tall, with a remarkable footprint of 142-by-70 feet.

Special Guided Tours in Gloucester Interested in taking your Hammond Castle visit to the next level? Consider one of the following special tours for an in-depth take on the history of the property:

• Spiritualism Tours On Thursday evenings during the summer through Halloween, visitors can experience the American Spiritual Movement of the late 29th and early 20th centuries. John Hays Hammond, Jr. and his wife Irene were pioneers of the movement. Why not celebrate their interests with an interactive tour featuring spirit photography, séances, and ESP?

• Candlelight Tours John Hays Hammond, Jr. was something of a night owl. The inventor preferred to work through most evenings and sleep during the day. To honor his legacy, the museum offers guided Candlelight Tours on Thursday nights through the end of September and in December. Visitors can experience the castle the same way Hammond did.

• Cape Ann Picnics In the summer, visitors who have tickets for a Candlelight or Spiritualism Tour may sit down for a “carry-in, carry-out” picnic on the lawn of the estate an hour before their program begins. The oceanfront scenery is well worth the extra planning involved—there’s no way you’ll forget the scenic views of Gloucester and the surrounding area.

• Arms and Armors Tours Hammond didn’t collect medieval weapons personally. However, given the castle’s medieval inspiration, visitors can still come in and enjoy an hour-long program on all things arms and armor. If you are interested in swords, crossbows, and battle axes, Hammond Castle Museum has you covered with a very special tour.

A reminder that self-guided tours are available as well. Click here for more information.

Field Trips To The Castle

Schools on Cape Ann and throughout Massachusetts visit Hammond Castle on a regular basis. Educators should expect to stay on the property for 90 minutes to two hours. They can tailor the content of the tour upon request, based on students’ needs, interests, and ability levels.

Hammond Castle also offers STEM tours on request. Hammond himself was an inventor, making him the perfect subject of an engaging, still-relevant lesson in science, math, and engineering.

The STEM tour describes Hammond’s life and inventions, all while describing the patent process and the castle itself. Students who are interested in music, architecture, sound reproduction, radio dynamics, and military inventions will love this unique educational program.

Weddings and Corporate Events Both locals and visitors to Cape Ann plan weddings, private parties, and corporate events at Hammond Castle. With the stunning interior, captivating exterior, and lush grounds, it’s no wonder the venue has become so popular.

Interested parties can choose from a number of packages to plan their special day. Family reunions, bar and bat mitvahs, and baby showers are just some of the events Hammond Castle has hosted before.

In addition, the property offers corporate events designed with your company’s goals in mind. Hammond Castle will include tours and team-building exercises for internal gatherings, or make catering arrangements perfect for entertaining clients.

Capacity is somewhat flexible. The indoor Great Hall seats up to 90 people, while the Ocean-Facing Lawn can accommodate up to 120 guests.

How to Access Hammond Castle

To visit Hammond Castle from Boston, take I-95 North to Exit 45. From there, route 128 North will carry you through to Exit 14.

Travelers can then turn right onto Route 133, approaching the ocean before making another right onto Route 127. At this point, you’ll want to continue nearly a mile from that intersection, at which point the road will start to narrow.

And there you have it: A blue-and-white sign on your left will lead you right to Hammond Castle. Turn onto Hesperus Avenue in Gloucester, park in the lot off the street, and take the stairs to the entrance.

We look forward to hearing your thoughts on the towering property and surrounding gardens.

Visit Hammond Castle

Ready to plan your visit to Coastal New England? Be sure to include Cape Ann in your plans, and visit the architectural wonder that is Hammond Castle during your stay.

Steeped in history, it’s the perfect venue for an immersive, memorable experience. Our team here at Addison Choate will gladly answer any questions you may have. From dining and shopping, to hiking and boating, we’ll help you curate the experience of a lifetime.

Please don’t hesitate to contact us with questions or for more information.

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Self-guided Tours at Hammond Castle Museum

Wednesday, September 22, 2021

Date & Time

Time Slot(s):

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Description.

Hammond Castle Museum was built in the 1920s by inventor John Hays Hammond, Jr. as a home for his extensive collection of medieval artifacts and his research laboratory. The first 30 walk-in guests on Wednesday, September 22 will receive free admission for a self-guided tour of the Museum and the grounds. During your visit you can explore the expansive rooms, see the medieval architectural components and collections, and wander on the back lawn overlooking the ocean.

Special Instructions: Only the first 30 walk-ins will receive free admission. The Museum opens at 9:30am so try to arrive earlier in the day. The Museum is not handicapped accessible. Strollers, backpacks, food, and drinks are not allowed inside the Museum.

Hammond Castle Museum

978-283-2080

80 Hesperus Ave, Gloucester, MA 01930

Accessibility

Fun for Kids

Parking Available

Restrooms Available

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• Architecture
• Arts & Culture
• Historic House

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Ireland Castle Vacation Tour

Ireland castle private/chauffeur* driven tour

Discover ireland's grandest castles, scenic landscapes and sleep in luxurious castle hotel rooms..

Nothing captures the romance, architecture and history of Europe like the castles of Ireland do. The Ireland Castle Tour offers a magical step into the past, with all the amenities you expect from a luxury tour with modern conveniences. Whether you are taking a trip on your own or coming to explore with a small group, our Ireland castle vacation gives you an Irish experience that is better than you could ever imagine.

This is a 7-day private castle tour of Ireland in which you explore the historic beauty of Irish castles.

Transportation, meals and of course nightly accommodations in the castles of Ireland are included. Special rates and dates for Ireland castle vacation packages

*Can also be taken as a self-driven tour.

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• Professional Blue Badged Certified Irish Driver Guide with Luxury Vehicle with leather seating from Day 3 until end of Day 5
• Newmarket – Dromoland Castle – 2 Nights
• Adare – Adare Manor – 3 Nights 
• Full Irish Breakfast Daily
• Fully escorted sightseeing as per itinerary
• All Driver’s Expenses
• Hotel taxes

Not Included:

• Any items of a personal nature.
• Dinners and suggested optional sightseeing that are not mentioned as included in itinerary

*Rates determined by number of passengers and dates of travel.

Low Season 2024

Mid season 2024, high season 2024, example private/chauffeur driven tour itinerary.

Shannon – Newmarket-on-Fergus Arrive at Shannon Airport where after clearing customs, move on to ground transportation. Make your way too nearby Dromoland via Taxi Today’s tour highlights include the Irish Cliffs of Moher, Lahinch, Bunratty Castle & Folk Park and Durty Nellie’s Pub. Then on to Dromoland Castle one of Europe’s most desired 5* star hotel and bed and breakfast destinations. This Ireland castle was constructed in the 16th century and is the ancestral seat of the O’Briens who are one of the few native Gaelic families of royal blood. There will be plenty of time to soak in this Five Star Deluxe property in all its Irish splendor. Activities at Dromoland Castle include cycling, horseback riding, fishing, and leisure walks through the romantic gardens. This evening enjoy a gourmet meal in the main dining room overlooking Lough Dromoland (optional). Spend the night you are in one of the 75 deluxe guest castle guest rooms at Dromoland Castle .

Dromoland – Galway – Connemara – Dromoland After breakfast at this spectacular Ireland castle, it’s time to enjoy the magnificent views of Ireland’s Connemara region. Meet your personal Driver Tour Guide in the lobby. On to Galway Town for a brief visit before continuing on to take in the magnificent views of Ireland’s Connemara region, to enjoy Ireland’s wild, natural beauty. Travelling due west from Galway City to Rossaveal, through Salthill and Bearna into the heart of the West’s Gaeltacht, where Gaelic is spoken as the first language by Ireland citizens. Continue on to Cashel, Ballynahinch and then Clifden, perched high above Clifden Bay with spectacular views of Ireland’s Twelve Ben Mountains. This is a good place to stop for some shopping and lunch and then continue on to Kylemore Abbey and Garden dating back to the 1600’s and the Ireland monastic home of the Benedictine Nuns. Return to Ireland’s beautiful County Clare for another luxurious overnight stay at Dromoland Castle .

Dromoland – Adare After enjoying another gourmet breakfast at Dromoland Castle, the Ireland Castle tour continues to Adare. Meet your personal Driver Tour Guide in the lobby. Today you explore the city of Limerick, home of Pulitzer Prize winning author, Frank McCourt. See King John’s Castle, the Bishop’s Palace, and the Hunt Museum or take the Angela’s Ashes walking tour of this bustling Irish town. This Ireland town offers art galleries, museums, and restaurants. Take time to enjoy all that Limerick has to offer today before arriving at your final destination, the majestic Adare Manor for another overnight stay amidst luxurious castle accommodations.

The Dingle Peninsula. After breakfast, experience the true beauty of Ireland on this full day tour to the breathtaking Dingle Peninsula. Traveling via Tralee and The Slieve Mish Mountains we will stop in the sleeping fishing village of Dingle before heading out to see Slea Head and the ominous views of The Blasket Islands With its 12th century Beehive Huts, its ominous views of the Blasket Island originally home to Irish Monks, we have been told by many travelers that the awe-inspiring beauty of this particular area has left them with a truly spiritual feeling. Suggested lunch stop in Dingle is Maria DeBraae, right on the main street, Dingle. We depart Dingle and travel via Tralee where every August the famous Rose of Tralee Festival is held. Tonight, enjoy many of the local restaurants Killarney has to offer. Overnight Adare Manor.

Adare. After enjoying a breakfast fit for a king or queen at the Adare Manor, this 6th day of your Ireland Castle Tour is spent exploring the little Irish town of Adare with its thatched roof cottages which offer quite a contrast to the grand castles of Ireland you have enjoyed on this tour. Marvel at the River Maigue and explore the ruins in town as well as on the property of the Manor. A “must see” is the Augustinian Abbey or the Franciscan Friary, both just steps from the Manor. Take the afternoon to enjoy the amenities of this deluxe property. Perhaps you will play golf at Adare Manor, home of the 2008 Irish Open. Overnight at Adare Manor.

Adare – Shannon Airport. Morning departure on own for Shannon Airport where upon arrival we return your rental car (if self-drive) before boarding your flight home.

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Actual locations dependent upon itinerary

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• Tour Name * Select a Tour Custom Tour - Please create the ultimate Ireland experience for me! Breath of Elegance Castle Tour Celtic Irish Band Classically Ireland Golf Tour Ireland Enchanted Intimate Ireland Hideaways and Backroads Luxury Spa and Wellness Vacation Northern Elegance Northern Intimate Ireland Southern Elegance Southern Intimate Ireland The Irish Tradition Wild West I'm not sure, please help me choose!
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• Band you wish to tour with * Select a Band Dallahan Dublin City Ramblers & Emish Get Up Jack Rogue Diplomats Scythian Tartan Terrors The Elders The Young Dubliners Tullamore We Banjo 3 I'm not sure, yet.
• # of Passengers * (make sure to include yourself) Please enter a number from 1 to 50 .
• Tour Type * Please select how you would prefer to travel on this tour. Chauffeur driven private guided Escorted Tour Group Self-driving
• Start Date * Date Format: MM slash DD slash YYYY
• End Date * Date Format: MM slash DD slash YYYY
• Select Dates for Enchanted Intimate Ireland Tour April 1-15, 2023 May 6-20, 2023 June 10-24, 2023 July 1-15, 2023 August 12-26, 2023 September 2-16, 2023 October 7-21, 2023
• Select Dates for Northern Intimate Ireland Tour April 1-9, 2023 May 6-14, 2023 June 10-18, 2023 July 1-9, 2023 August 12-20, 2023 September 2-10, 2023 October 7-15, 2023
• Select Dates for Southern Intimate Ireland Tour April 7-15, 2023 May 12-20, 2023 June 16-24, 2023 July 7-15, 2023 August 18-26, 2023 September 8-16, 2023 October 13-21, 2023
• Select Dates for Breath of Elegance Tour February 8-22, 2020 March 7-21, 2020 April 4-18, 2020 May 2-16, 2020 June 13-27, 2020 July 4-18, 2020 August 8-22, 2020 September 5-19, 2020 October 10-24, 2020
• Select Dates for Northern Elegance Tour February 8-16, 2020 March 7-15, 2020 April 4-12, 2020 May 2-10, 2020 June 13-21, 2020 July 4-12, 2020 August 8-16, 2020 September 5-13, 2020 October 10-18, 2020
• Select Dates for Southern Elegance Tour February 14-22, 2020 March 13-21, 2020 April 10-18, 2020 May 8-16, 2020 June 19-27, 2020 July 10-18, 2020 August 14-22, 2020 September 11-19, 2020 October 16-24, 2020
• Select Dates for Classically Ireland Tour February 8-16, 2020 February 22-March 1, 2020 March 21-29,2020 April 18-26,2020 May 16-24, 2020 June 20-28, 2020 July 18-26, 2020 August 22-30, 2020 September 19-27, 2020 October 17-25, 2020 November 14-22, 2020

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Moscow Metro

The Moscow Metro Tour is included in most guided tours’ itineraries. Opened in 1935, under Stalin’s regime, the metro was not only meant to solve transport problems, but also was hailed as “a people’s palace”. Every station you will see during your Moscow metro tour looks like a palace room. There are bright paintings, mosaics, stained glass, bronze statues… Our Moscow metro tour includes the most impressive stations best architects and designers worked at - Ploshchad Revolutsii, Mayakovskaya, Komsomolskaya, Kievskaya, Novoslobodskaya and some others.

What is the kremlin in russia?

The guide will not only help you navigate the metro, but will also provide you with fascinating background tales for the images you see and a history of each station.

And there some stories to be told during the Moscow metro tour! The deepest station - Park Pobedy - is 84 metres under the ground with the world longest escalator of 140 meters. Parts of the so-called Metro-2, a secret strategic system of underground tunnels, was used for its construction.

During the Second World War the metro itself became a strategic asset: it was turned into the city's biggest bomb-shelter and one of the stations even became a library. 217 children were born here in 1941-1942! The metro is the most effective means of transport in the capital.

There are almost 200 stations 196 at the moment and trains run every 90 seconds! The guide of your Moscow metro tour can explain to you how to buy tickets and find your way if you plan to get around by yourself.

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