Discover Basking Ridge

Basking Ridge appeals to travelers interested in history, architecture, or outdoor activities. Several outdoor experiences come together at Lord Stirling Park, while its historic sites offer different insights into the region’s history and architecture.

History at Lord Stirling Park

The Lord Stirling Manor Archaeological Site is part of Lord Stirling Park in Basking Ridge. During the American Revolution, it was the estate of General William Alexander, known as Lord Stirling, and his family. In 1975, the site was added to both the New Jersey Register of Historic Places and the National Register of Historic Places. This connects the park’s history to a specific person and his family.

Architectural history and regional interpretation

Basking Ridge Presbyterian Church was built in the Greek Revival style in 1839. Its exterior has changed very little since it was built. The Kennedy-Martin-Stelle Farmstead offers a different architectural perspective: the farmhouse, carriage house, and English barn are considered important early examples of English and modified Dutch timber-frame construction. This brings the architecture of a church and different timber-framing traditions together.

The Kennedy-Martin-Stelle Farmstead interprets local, state, and agricultural history, as well as the history of the American Revolutionary War. It does so through its buildings, lectures, exhibits, and educational programs. Architecture is not the only way to explore the site: its themes and interpretive formats also shape how visitors experience it.

The Brick Academy is now home to the Historical Society of Somerset Hills. The building houses a research room, a library, and a museum. Together with the church and the farmstead, it adds further insight into collections and research spaces to the area’s historic offerings.

Trails, nature study, and horseback riding

The Environmental Education Center at Lord Stirling Park offers about nine miles of hiking trails. It also features natural history exhibits and programs led by naturalists. If you’re planning to attend a specific program, it’s best to check the current schedule in advance. Groups wishing to use the Center’s trails for self-guided visits must make a reservation. Trail conditions may change, so check the latest conditions before heading out.

The Stable at Lord Stirling Park offers guided Western-style horseback rides for riders of all experience levels. An experienced trail guide leads the rides, which are conducted at a walk only. Dates and requirements may change, so it’s a good idea to check in advance. In March 2024, a connector trail was also established in the park between the Environmental Education Center’s hiking trails and the Stable’s bridle trails. Check current trail conditions before using it.

Discover more destinations: Somerville, North Plainfield, Montgomery Township, South Bound Brook, Warren, Hillsborough, Manville, Green Brook Township.

For the broader travel overview: Somerset.