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Find New Hampshire Counties and County Seats


New Hampshire County Seat Map



New Hampshire, with its picturesque landscapes and charming towns, offers several photogenic county seats that capture the essence of New England's beauty. One of the most notable is Concord, the state capital and the county seat of Merrimack County. Concord is renowned for its historic court house, a beautiful structure that adds to the town's colonial charm. The Merrimack River flows through the city, enhancing its scenic appeal. Nearby, White Park, with its well-maintained grounds, provides a lovely space for visitors to enjoy outdoor activities and picturesque views. Concord's historic district, featuring elegant clock towers and classic architecture, adds to its visual allure, making it a prime destination for those seeking photogenic locales.

In contrast, Littleton, the county seat of Grafton County, presents a more quaint and intimate setting. This small town is famous for its vibrant downtown area and picturesque band stand located in the heart of the village. The Ammonoosuc River meanders through Littleton, providing a serene backdrop for photos and leisure activities. The historic court house, with its classic design, and charming band stand create a quaint and inviting atmosphere. Littleton’s park spaces, like the picturesque Polly’s Pond, further enhance its appeal as a photogenic destination.

Keene, located in Cheshire County, is another county seat known for its photogenic qualities. The city’s iconic court house stands out with its elegant architecture and historical significance. Central Square in Keene is a focal point for visitors, featuring a beautiful clock tower and a well-maintained band stand. The city's parks, such as Robin Hood Park, and the nearby Ashuelot River provide additional scenic beauty, making Keene a delightful destination for photography enthusiasts. The blend of historic charm and natural beauty in Keene makes it a standout among New Hampshire's county seats.

Manchester, as the largest city in New Hampshire and the county seat of Hillsborough County, combines urban vibrancy with historic charm. The city’s historic court house, featuring grand architecture, is a notable landmark. The picturesque Elm Street, with its blend of historic and modern elements, is a prime spot for capturing the city's character. The Merrimack River, flowing through Manchester, adds to the city’s scenic beauty, and parks like Livingston Park provide green spaces amidst the urban landscape. Manchester’s mix of architectural and natural beauty makes it a compelling location for capturing photographs.

On the other end of the spectrum, Alton, the county seat of Belknap County, represents a smaller, more tranquil setting. Alton’s court house, while modest, is set against a backdrop of natural beauty, including the nearby Alton Bay on Lake Winnipesaukee. The small-town charm is reflected in its parks and the peaceful environment around the lake, making Alton a picturesque and serene destination for those seeking a quieter experience.

Regarding population sizes, Hillsborough County is the most populous county in New Hampshire, encompassing a large urban area with Manchester and Nashua. Merrimack County, with Concord as its county seat, also has a significant population but is less populous compared to Hillsborough. Conversely, the smallest county in terms of population is Sullivan County, which includes the county seat of Newport. Sullivan County’s more rural setting contributes to its smaller population size compared to its more urban counterparts.

Among county seats, the largest in terms of population is Manchester, with its substantial urban population and extensive amenities. The smallest county seat in New Hampshire is typically Newport, which, while charming, has a smaller population reflective of its more rural and less densely populated setting. Each county seat, regardless of size, offers unique scenic and historical features that highlight New Hampshire’s diverse and picturesque character.

New Hampshire County Seats



County Seat Concord, Merrimack County
County Seat Dover, Strafford County
County Seat Exeter, Rockingham County
County Seat Keene, Cheshire County
County Seat Laconia, Belknap County
County Seat Lancaster, Coos County
County Seat Nashua, Hillsborough County
County Seat Newport, Sullivan County
County Seat Ossipee, Carroll County
County Seat Woodsville, Grafton County