Stroll through elegant gardens complementing a stately country house, then explore surrounding fields, pastures, and woodlands that echo the property’s agricultural past.
This 90-acre country retreat recalls a bucolic world of majestic homes, elegant gardens, carriage rides, fields and woodlands—all the amenities of turn-of-the 20th-century living in the Neponset River Valley. In 1902, Dr. Arthur Tracy Cabot retained noted architect Charles Platt to design the home; the Italianate, latticed walled garden was a centerpiece of Platt’s vision. Arthur Cabot died in 1912, and in 1945, his niece, Eleanor Cabot Bradley, and her husband, Ralph Bradley, acquired the estate. The Bradleys preserved the genteel traditions of the property, adding ponds, a sunken camellia garden, and an art studio while maintaining a commitment to the formal gardens and other plantings.
A small but vibrant working farm and 15 acres of open fields lie beyond, and the outlying parts of the estate comprise more than 60 acres of woods and wetlands, laced with nearly three miles of cart paths and trails.
Trace three miles of woodland cart paths and trails lacing the outlying parts of the estate—comprising more than 60 acres of woods and wetlands—and catch a glimpse of the small, vibrant farm operating on 15 acres beyond.
When to Visit
Daily, sunrise to sunset. House open during special events only.
Admission
Members: FREE; Parking, $7 for nonmembers.
Weddings are held on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from May to October. The formal garden and the grounds around the house may be unavailable after 1:00PM on booked event days. However, the rest of the 90 acres will remain open.
2468B Washington Street (Route 138)
Canton, MA 02021
Get directions on Google Maps.
From Route 128 (I-93), take Exit 2A and follow Rt. 138 South towards Stoughton. Immediately after crossing bridge (if exiting from Rt. 128 North) or coming off exit ramp (if exiting from Rt. 128 South), turn right into first driveway on the right (it comes up fast!). Follow signs to parking area (75 cars). The drives on the property utilize a one-way system, so please take notice of signs.
Accessible parking spots are available. Due to the age of the house and site, along with uneven terrain in our woodland paths, the Bradley Estate is not ADA compliant and is not wheelchair, walker, or stroller-accessible, and may be difficult to access for guests with limited mobility.
The historic Bradley Estate is situated on 90 acres of conservation land amidst manicured lawns, a formal parterre garden, a pond, and scenic trails. Ceremonies take place in the formal gardens, followed by cocktails on the lawn and inside the historic mansion. An elegant sailcloth tent serves as the ideal location for dinner and dancing.
Learn MoreThere is a trail map posted on a kiosk in the main parking area.
We recommend that you take a photo of the map on your phone so you can refer to it during your visit, or download a trail map before you head out.
We hope you enjoy your visit. For your safety, and to help protect this unique resource, we ask that you please comply with the following regulations:
The following are prohibited:
Note: Please check locally at property for posted advisories and regulations.
Discover the revitalized public gardens and historic houses at two special places on the North Shore.
In 1902, Dr. Arthur Tracy Cabot hired architect Charles Platt to design a country house, landscaped grounds, and a complex of farm and estate buildings. In 1945, Cabot’s niece, Eleanor Cabot Bradley, acquired the property. She and her husband Ralph Bradley made minor modifications to the buildings and restored the overgrown fields.
A great venue for a lovely walk or tour. The estate is also a great venue for a small wedding or event.
– NorthCarolina2015, Trip Advisor