Manchester, Maine

Cobbosseecontee lakeside living near Augusta

Overview

Manchester sits between Augusta and Winthrop, known for shorefront neighborhoods on Cobbosseecontee Lake and Spectacle Pond. Route 202 makes for short commutes to the State House, while nearby golf courses and boat launches draw summer residents and year-round anglers.

Key Facts

Population 2,500

Region Kennebec Valley

County Kennebec

Founded 1850

Nearest City Augusta (10 minutes)

Town Office Visit official website

What Manchester Is Known For

Manchester Local Highlights

Lake access

Cobbosseecontee's boat launches and bass fishing are major draws.

Commuter convenience

Quick drive to Augusta employers, shopping, and healthcare.

Recreation

Close to golf at Augusta Country Club and hiking in nearby preserves.

Things to Do

Boat Cobbosseecontee

Launch for fishing, paddling, and watersports.

Play a round

Golf at Augusta Country Club just over the town line.

Explore Augusta

Visit museums, the riverfront, and restaurants downtown.

Winter recreation

Ice fish and skate on local ponds once safe; check the /guides/ice-fishing-guide for safety.

Living in Manchester

Manchester blends lakeside camps with year-round homes favored by Augusta commuters. Most services are in neighboring Augusta or Winthrop, and shorefront roads can be narrow in winter.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Warm, 72-84 F

winter

Cold, 12-30 F with steady snow

spring

Cool, 40-58 F

fall

Crisp, 45-62 F with lakeside foliage

Local Wildlife & Nature

Loons and eagles on Cobbosseecontee Lake Deer browsing in shoreline neighborhoods Bass and pike in local waters

How to Get There

On US-202/Route 17 west of Augusta; I-95 access via Exit 109 in Augusta.

Satellite preview shows the approximate town outline to help you get oriented before you arrive.

Satellite preview

Manchester outline

Outdoor Recreation

Boating & Sailing

June - September

Fishing

Year-round (Open water & Ice fishing)

Snowmobiling

Winter (December - April)

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can visitors launch boats?

Public launches are available on Cobbosseecontee Lake and nearby Pleasant Pond; see local signage for parking and fees.

Do residents swim in the lake?

Yes—many camps and neighborhoods have access, and designated public spots exist around Cobbosseecontee and Spectacle Pond; check water quality advisories in summer.