Is the tour suitable for children?

Yes, the tour is family-friendly and suitable for children, though some sections require walking and may interest older kids more.

Are there restroom facilities available?

Yes, restrooms are available near the visitor center and throughout the village.

Can I book the tour privately for a small group?

Yes, private bookings are possible and often recommended to enhance the personalized experience.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?

Some parts of the village have uneven terrain; please contact Canterbury Shaker Village for specific accommodations.

Are pets allowed on the tour?

Pets are not permitted on the tour to protect the historic site and wildlife.

What is the cancellation policy?

Cancellation policies vary; please check with Canterbury Shaker Village for detailed information before booking.

The Shaker Experience Tour in Canterbury, NH | History Tour | Guided Tour

Experience the unique history of the Shakers with the Fall Special Tour Series at Canterbury Shaker Village in New Hampshire. Guided by Director of Education Kyle Sandler, this tour brings to life the world of Nicholas Briggs through locations vividly described in his memoir, “Forty Years a Shaker.” Visitors can explore original buildings, workshops, and gardens that showcase the disciplined yet creative way of Shaker life during the 19th century. This private adventure offers not only educational insights but also a chance to connect with the values and craftsmanship that defined the Shakers. The immersive storytelling helps guests understand their beliefs, community structure, and impact on American culture. Whether you're a history buff, a culture enthusiast, or simply seeking something different, this tour provides a meaningful and memorable outdoor experience in the charming setting of Canterbury.

About Canterbury Shaker Village

Canterbury Shaker Village is a historic Shaker community and living history museum located in Canterbury, New Hampshire. The Village offers guided tours, special exhibitions, community readings, concerts, hands-on workshops, and seasonal events that interpret Shaker life, craft, and communal practices.

Educational programs highlight primary sources and personal narratives, including special tours inspired by Nicolas Briggs’s memoir Forty Years a Shaker and guided walks led by the Village’s education staff such as Director of Education Kyle Sandler. Visitors can attend readings in the 1792 Meeting House, music on the green, antique and vintage car shows set among fall foliage, and exhibition openings that honor the Shakers’ legacy.

Workshops and demonstrations teach traditional Shaker skills; examples include a cherry oval box workshop led by instructor Dick Bennett and farm-to-table dinners paired with historic tours at community gatherings like Simply Shaker. Members and preview events bring curators and historians together to contextualize artifacts, as seen in the Keeping Faith exhibition talks with curators Renée Fox, Kyle Sandler, and Shirley Wajda.

Canterbury Shaker Village maintains credibility through documented artifacts, named curators and educators, and a range of public programs that connect visitors directly to Shaker material culture. The Village’s calendar of events and combination of tours, exhibitions, and hands-on learning provide reliable opportunities for visitors to explore early American religious life and Shaker craftsmanship. Public programs often include live music, community readings, vintage car exhibitions, curator talks, and light refreshments during exhibition openings to deepen visitor engagement with Shaker history and authentic material culture.