Appleton Farms is America’s oldest working farm. Rolling grasslands, grazing livestock, stone walls, extensive forests, miles of walking paths and historic farm buildings are part of the farms 1,000-acre pastoral landscape. The working farm operation includes a grass-based dairy and beef operation as with an on-site creamery. The farm also operates a 550-member Community Supported Agriculture program and haying and composting operations. With a farm store that sells the farms hand-crafted artisanal cheeses, butter and yogurt as well as beef and eggs, more than 12 miles of walking trails, a visitor center, and public events and culinary programs, the farm is open to the public seven days a week. Appleton Farms is one of 112 properties in the Commonwealth – including working farms, historic homesteads and gardens, community parks, barrier beaches and mountain vistas – owned and managed by the non-profit organization The Trustees of Reservations.
Address
219 County Road Ipswich, MA 1938
Driving Directions
Visitor Center & Dairy Store Parking Area: From Rt. 128, take Exit 20A, Rt. 1A North. Travel about 6.5 miles north on Rt. 1A and turn left at the Appleton Farms entrance sign (just after entering Ipswich sign). Inside stone gates, follow signs to visitor center or dairy store. Address is 219 County Road, Ipswich. Waldingfield Rd. Parking Area: From Rt. 128, take Exit 20A, Rt. 1A North. Travel about 7 mi. north on Rt. 1A and turn left onto Waldingfield Rd. to parking area (20 cars) at street corner. Highland St. Parking Area: From Rt. 128, take Exit 20A, Rt. 1A North. Travel about 4.5 mi. north on Rt. 1A and turn left onto Cutler Rd. Follow for 2.2 mi. At intersection with Highland St., turn right, and right again into parking area (20 cars).
Notes & Advisories
12 miles of footpaths, bridle paths, and farm roads (easy walking), some of which are part of the Bay Circuit Trail, crisscross the farm. Stay on marked paths and roads and respect livestock, farm equipment and electric fences. General public vehicles are allowed only on entrance driveways. Horses are allowed only on designated trails and require Green Horse permits from The Trustees. Dogs are prohibited at Appleton Farms but are allowed at the adjacent Appleton Farms Grass Rides.
Categories
- Cultural Resources
- Farms & Orchards
- Historic Resources
- Museums
- Natural Resources
- Parks
- Recreation & Tours
- Walking & Hiking
- Wildlife Viewing
Accessibility
- Accessible/ Wheelchair or Stroller Accommodating
- Appropriate for all ages
- Parking Available
- Restrooms Available
- Self-Guided