As editor of Northshore, I’m an ambassador for all that is quaint and charming, and certainly West Newbury has an endearing old-fashioned quality worthy of showcasing.
On National Shadow Day in February I had the pleasure of mentoring West Newbury resident Ashley Adams, a Pentucket High School senior and an aspiring journalist. Her knowledge of and love for her town struck me. The Adams family owns and operates Long Hill Orchard, a beehive of activity where people line up for ice cream, grow community vegetables, and take time out to talk.
West Newbury, a separate entity from Newburyport and Newbury, is a community that embraces its neighbors and invests in its children. They share similar values: great education, sports, arts, and recreation for kids. There is very little commercialization, and yet with the 01985 zip code comes some of the region’s highest property values and per capita incomes. These fortunate folks probably want to keep their village a secret, but in on going conversations with the Adams family, I’ve found that there’s lots to share. And while on the recent home and garden tour, I saw and heard firsthand why this town of some 4,000 residents is so loved. But I’ll let Ashley be your guide:
With the Merrimack River winding its way along the northern border and the port city of Newburyport to the east, West Newbury is a small epicenter of scenic beauty. Hills flow like waves across the town. With several of the North Shore’s largest farms and some of the best horseback riding trails around, West Newbury really is a sight to see.
For as long as I can remember, I have loved living in town. I anticipate the Myopia Hunt Clubs annual October fox hunt. It starts at the club’s headquarters in South Hamilton and then spreads out across the North Shore, bringing dozens of hounds and horses to gallivant about town in search of a fox. October is also the month for the Apple Harvest road race.
Every fall, hundreds of families come to Long Hill Orchard to pick apples, enjoy the haunted hayrides, and visit the many animals. Right down the street is Mill Pond, a 200-acre recreational area with fishing, cross-country skiing, hiking, and horse trails. The pond is also the site of West Newbury’s Winter Carnival. The simple yet pleasing allure of the view from the top of one of the town’s 10 hills is enough to make me want to stay in West Newbury for an eternity.