The neighborhoods of Westbrook, CT
You’ll come across a few different neighborhoods in Westbrook, starting with the downtown area, Westbrook Center. This section is home to Boston Post Road, home to many of the town’s restaurants and shops, in addition to parks, beaches, and a vast residential region.
Just west of the center of town is Grove Beach Point. This area has a few more restaurants and retailers, along with beachfront properties. Both Westbrook Center and Grove Beach Point have marinas where the Menunketesuck River opens into Long Island Sound.
Pond Meadow is at the far north end of town and borders Ivoryton. This neighborhood features lots of trees and access to Wrights Pond.
The Cypress Cemetery neighborhood is just north of Westbrook Center. It is mostly residential, although there are multiple churches, two schools, and some industrial properties there, as well.
Horse Hill is the northwest part of Westbrook and is made up of large, single-family lots with plenty of privacy. This neighborhood connects directly with neighboring Clinton.
Westbrook, Connecticut’s history
Westbrook was originally part of Old Saybrook and settled by Europeans in 1648. At that time, it was known as the Oyster Rive Quarter and was mostly farmland and pastures. Once people starting living there permanently, the region took the name Pochoug.
In 1724, the borough separated and was known as West Saybrook for a time before finally taking the name Westbrook in 1810. The town of Westbrook was finally incorporated in 1840.
In its early days, the vast forests of Westbrook made it important for the shipbuilding industry that was running out of nearby Essex. Timber from chestnut and white oak trees were accessible and helped keep the practice alive for almost one hundred years.
In the 1870s, Westbrook became a famous beach resort town, which is a distinction that it maintains to this day.
Things to do in Westbrook, CT
Activities in Westbrook usually center on the ocean, as the town has excellent access to Long Island Sound through the Menunketesuck River. There are roughly 14 marinas assembled in a small area of town, which provides plenty of dock space and moorage for locals. Once you buy a home in Westbrook, Connecticut, you’ll surely find yourself renting a boat slip and spending time on the water.
Of course, even those who aren’t into boating will find ways to enjoy the ocean thanks to the beaches. Westbrook Town Beach, which sits in Westbrook Center, is a popular choice because it has a large parking lot, a lengthy pier, and plenty of space to spread out. There are other beaches along Seaside Avenue and Old Mail Trail, as well, but keep in mind that private beach associations try to keep people away from them. Make sure you’re allowed on any beach before entering.
Residents don’t have to spend time on the beach because there’s great shopping at Westbrook Outlets, as well as some shops along Boston Post Road.
In addition, you can do some hiking and birdwatching at the Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge, exploring in the Cockaponset State Forest, or freshwater fishing at Messerschmidt Pond or Champmans Pond.
Living in Westbrook
Choosing to buy real estate in Westbrook, CT means having access to oceans, ponds, forests, and marinas every day. This part of the country is scenic, adventurous, and tranquil all at the same time, making it a diverse place to spend your days.
As you look at homes to buy in Westbrook, Connecticut, Compass New England is here to help you on your way. We know this town inside and out and can provide all the insight you need to make the right decision for you and your family.
