The town of about 3,000 people gets its name from its beach sand, of all things. Early visitors compared it to "Bristol sand," the raw materials used to make fine china in Bristol, England. Much of the town is located on Newfound Lake on Routes 3-A and 104. Four towns share its twenty-two miles of shore line with Bristol easily having the most developed portion. There are many condominiums & near-lakeside housing communities in town.

Wellington State Park on Newfound Lake is a jewel. There is a long, narrow beach that provides access to the crystal clear water and a large, modern boat launch. There are plenty of picnic tables and ample pine trees for shade. Some folks may enjoy Sugar Hill State Forest, and almost everyone will enjoy the falls at the Profile Falls Recreation Area, featuring a .2 mile hike to a forty-foot falls.

"Mr. Watson - Come here - I want you!" Yes, Thomas A. Watson, Alexander Graham Bell's trusty assistant was a summer resident, as was John Cheever, American king of short fiction. Bristol is also home to Newfound Lake Vineyards.

There are a surprisingly large number of dining choices in Bristol. Among them: Kathleen's Cottage, 90 Lake Street, is a traditional Irish pub and restaurant. The Big Catch, 150 Shore Dr., features seafood but offers a varied menu and is accessible by boat or car and has waterside dining. The Homestead Restaurant & Tavern offers a slightly upscale menu, and is located on Route 104.

For sweets, try The Mill Fudge Factory and Ice Cream Cafe located at 2 Central St. They are a 2014 Certificate of Excellence winner from Tripadvisor, and offer handcrafted artisan fudge, ice cream, salads, sandwiches and more.

Some Bristol lodging:

Henry Whipple House, 75 Summer Street

A Newfound Bed & Breakfast, 94 Mandi Lane

Pleasant View B&B, 22 Hemp Hill Road

Additional dining and lodging are available nearby in Ashland, Bridgewater and Plymouth.

With great scenery, a crystal clear lake and easy access via I-93, Bristol is a great destination.