In the nearly four centuries since the town was settled in 1639, life in Guilford has centered—both practically and atmospherically—around the 12-acre village green. From its colonial origins as a grazing pasture, military training ground, and cemetery site, the green has evolved into a hub of social, commercial, and spiritual activity. Flanked by three churches, the town’s bustling library, and a passel of shops and restaurants, the green itself is a favorite spot for leisurely walks, pick-up soccer games, and community events. Next time you’re passing through town, why not investigate a few of Guilford’s diverse, creative, and often quirky small businesses? Here, we offer three possibilities for your consideration.
Breakwater Books…First opened in 1972, Breakwater Books, 81 Whitfield Street, is a bibliophile’s dream, with a modest footprint that belies its floor-to-ceiling stock of wares. The store’s jewel box-like front window display alone is worth perusing, with regularly updated selections of reading materials organized by theme, color, or season. Inside, carefully curated tables beckon; notepads, stationery, and a small selection of writing implements are hard to resist; and a robust children’s section is tucked at the rear of the building. If the chance to restock your library isn’t reason alone to stop in (be sure to ask for a free Book Lovers Card to receive $10 off after 10 purchases of $15 or more), Breakwater holds periodic author signings and other special events.
Hen & Heifer…Just behind Breakwater, at 23 Water Street, Hen & Heifer patisserie is worth a trip to Guilford in its own right. The classically trained and Paris-inspired pastry chef behind Hen & Heifer’s fanciful—and decadently delicious—offerings co-founded the business in 2013; in the intervening five years, word of mouth and sweetness of tooth have made his creations a culinary mainstay of the region. Try a delicate, meringue-topped lemon tartlet on a butter-cookie crust; a glazed, spice-kissed, heart-shaped French “traveling cake”; or a savory, asparagus-strewn miniature quiche. The shop’s interior includes a handful of café tables, but in good weather, take your afternoon tea (or a truly transformative cup of hot chocolate) to the cheery neighboring terrace.
Page Hardware…Why, you might ask, among so many crave-worthy eateries and browsable boutiques, would a hardware and appliance store figure into this post? If this was your reaction, clearly you haven’t been to Page’s, 9 Boston Street. We advise you to correct this omission immediately. Beyond its location in an iconic building that anchors the south end of the green (the space, built in 1857, has variously served as the town’s post office, an ice cream parlor, and a meat market), Page’s is worth a visit for nearly anything on your weekend home shopping list. New mailbox? Check. Suet for the backyard birds? Check. Emile Henry pie plate? Check. Refrigerator, dishwasher, laundry dryer? Check, check, and check. Stop by regularly, and the friendly corps of longtime employees and cheerful high schoolers who work the afternoon shift will soon remember your name. It’s almost enough to imagine yourself in the Guilford of centuries past.
