Just north of Meredith but conveniently a few miles off I-93, Holderness is a waterfront community on the Squam Lakes. It is a very appealing, dignified and likeable town.

Holderness established itself as an agricultural community, and was a boom town of sorts, as the flat iron industry increased in the region. The arrival of the railroad increased the prosperity, however social unrest developed as the mill areas were denied street lights and sidewalks, amenities enjoyed in most other areas in town.

You can't mention Holderness without talking about the film, On Golden Pond, which was filmed in the area. Other connections with the entertainment industry include filmmaker George Butler (Pumping Iron, and Roving Mars), and children's author and Newberry Award winner Joan Winsor Blos.

The Squam Lakes Natural Science Center on Science Road has been educating in New Hampshire since the mid-1960s, and has worked to produce programming with New Hampshire Public television since 1980. Since the 1970s, they have had a mobile unit to reach out to area school and community groups. They offer a stimulating series of lectures and programs for children and adults.

Dining includes the Squam Lake Inn Café, 28 Shepard Hill Road, which offers fresh ingredients, served at available outdoor seating. Walter's Basin Pub (Basshole Pub) on Route 3 offers tavern style food and atmosphere, with a view, of course. The Van Horn Dining Room at The Manor on Golden Pond, 31 Manor Drive, is elegant and romantic.

Lodging in Holderness:

Boulders Motel & Cottages

Cottage Place on Squam Lake

Cotton Cove Cottages

Inn on Golden Pond

The Manor on Golden Pond

Squam Lake Inn

White Oak Motel & Cottages

Yankee Trail Motel

Great waterfront scenery and a distant view of the White Mountains make Holderness a great destination.