Neighborhood Profile
Laid back and welcoming community in Leeds
When asked if there are any misconceptions about Leeds, a neighborhood in Northampton, Kathy Borawski, a broker and owner of Borawski Real Estate who lives in Leeds and has been selling real estate in the area for 38 years, considers for a moment. “I think people think it’s a hippie town. It’s not, but it is very laid back, relaxed and welcoming.” Borawski credits the neighborhood’s progressiveness to its proximity to Smith College, one of the “Five College Consortium” schools that draws students and professors from across the globe to the area. “It’s very diverse here. You’ll find people from all walks of life. I think that’s one of the main draws.”
A variety of New England-style homes are plentiful
Newcomers to Leeds will find a variety of traditional New England-style homes including Cape Cods, Colonials and farmhouses, plus other popular styles like Victorian and ranch. Most were built in the 1950s, but some date back to the early 1900s. They sit on large lots with roomy front and backyards, often adorned with shrubs, flowers and tall trees. A lucky few sit on acres of land shrouded by tall trees. The streets are quiet and narrow; main thoroughfares tend to be two-lane. Prices range from $370,000 for 800 square feet to $1.2 million for 5,000 square feet. Those looking for something with a little less upkeep can find condos in the Fairway Village and Yankee Hill complexes, ranging from $217,000 for 1,100 square feet to $450,000 for 1,900 square feet.
Residents find shopping and dining in Northampton
Shopping is limited within the neighborhood but can be found in downtown Northampton. Residents pick up essentials at Walmart, groceries at Big Y World Class Market, and head to Main Street for its walkable shopping district offering used books, health food, clothing and more. Main Street is a hub of local restaurants, too. Neighborhood favorite Fitzwilly’s is loved for its craft beers and pub grub. Woodstar Café supplies locals with their daily caffeine fix, and Joe’s Spaghetti & Pizza buzzes with regulars on weekends. “Joe’s reminds me of the TV show ‘Cheers’ because everyone there knows your name,” Borawski says.
Children start school at Leeds Elementary and finish at Northampton High
Area kids start their education at Leeds Elementary School, then head to JFK Middle School and Northampton High School. Leeds Elementary has a B+ rating on Niche, while JFK Middle and Northampton High have a B and an A, respectively. Northampton High serves about 900 students and has a student-teacher ratio of 15-to-1. The school shares resources with Northampton Community Television, a non-profit community media center, which students use for school projects. There are also several opportunities for students who like to sing — they can join the chorus, the chamber choir or the school’s acapella group, The Northamptones.
Look Park and Robert Hills Conservation Area are popular recreation spots
Residents often head to Look Park, a private, non-profit recreational area off North Main Street, for fresh air and exercise. This spot offers attractions to keep kids entertained, like playgrounds, mini-golf and even a small zoo. Adults can challenge their friends to a game of pickleball or tennis, and visitors of all ages can ride the steam train. While park admission is not free, many residents find the season pass is well worth the money. Robert Hills Conservation Area offers a popular two-mile loop trail through the picturesque New England woods, rewarding hikers with a view at the top of the hills. Golf enthusiasts can join the Northampton Country Club, a semi-private club founded in 1898 that offers a nine-hole course and leagues catering to all skill levels.
Many events in nearby Northampton
Northampton has events throughout the year, from the annual Family Fourth Celebration at Look Park, which includes games, live music and 4th of July fireworks, to Bag Day, where businesses along Main Street offer 20% off all purchases and is considered the kickoff to the winter holidays.
I-91, public transportation keep residents on the move
Commuters can easily access Interstate 91 and connect to Springfield, about 22 miles south. Or they can take I-91 to I-90 and head east about 100 miles to Boston. When they need to go a little further, Bradley International Airport is about 45 miles south and offers domestic and international flights.
