When the thought of moving takes hold, many people turn their sights to Toronto’s West End. We can’t say that we blame them. As true West Enders ourselves, we can attest to the fact that there’s a lot to love about this area.
Naturally, well-known neighbourhoods like High Park, Bloor West Village, and Roncesvalles tend to get all the glory, and for all good reasons. They are stunning, fun, and convenient places to live. However, there is much more to West Toronto than you see at first glance, and several incredible neighbourhoods tend to fly under the radar. Could one of these be perfect for your next location? Let’s explore a few of our favourite hidden West End gems in more detail.
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Rockcliffe-Smythe
Could a neighbourhood be as green and lush as High Park and actually be affordable? Though housing prices have risen all over Toronto in the last decade, Rockcliffe-Smythe remains one of the best places to upsize, downsize, or even buy your first home.
The picturesque location along the Black Creek Ravine is one of the best parts about living here! The western edge is bordered by Scarlett Woods and Lambton Golf & Country Club, which means you’re surrounded by nature nearly everywhere you look.
At the same time, everything that drew you to Toronto in the first place is also close at hand. This small neighbourhood lies north of Bloor West Village, which means hundreds of shops, restaurants, and services are just minutes away by car. If you don’t want to travel even that far, you’ll find a host of amenities such as grocery stores, fast food restaurants, pharmacies, and more at Dundas, St. Clair, or Jane Street.
The real estate options might be the best aspect of Rockcliffe-Smythe. With an abundance of detached and semi-detached homes, it’s a fantastic find for a growing family. There are also a few townhouses and condos that are perfect for the first-time buyer or the active retiree.
West Bend
As a tiny enclave nestled between High Park, Roncesvalles and the Junction, West Bend is often overlooked. However, residents in this little community swear it gives its more famous neighbours a run for their money! A quick tour of the neighbourhood highlights a few of the reasons why.
Gorgeous architecture lines the streets, with historic housing styles such as Victorian, Edwardian, and Arts and Crafts. Most are detached, and many are adorned with colourful gardens and picturesque landscaping.
The entire neighbourhood revolves around the old rail line, which means the iconic West Toronto Rail Path is close by. You can admire nature and numerous art installations all at the same time. And what else is Toronto about other than picturesque beauty and an art scene that never disappoints?
No mention of any Toronto neighbourhood would be complete without talking about its convenience and proximity to fantastic amenities. It just so happens that West Bend is also one of the most connected areas in Toronto, thanks to an easily accessible subway station at Keele Street, a bus route, and a Go Transit station. It’s easy to get anywhere – that is, if you ever wanted to be anywhere else.
Locals have a saying that they live “where Dundas bends west.” The reason is that this is where Dundas Street makes a sharp turn to the west toward The Junction, hence the name, “West Bend.”
Curious about the West End and what it’s like to live there? Learn more in our extensive guide, All About Life in Toronto’s West End.
Carleton Village
Our exploration of hidden gems in Toronto’s West End heads north, where you’ll find a designated historical district since 1989. One of the first things you’ll notice upon setting foot in the friendly Carleton Village neighbourhood is an argument. The locals debate day and night over whether or not to include the “e” in Carleton Village. All in good fun, of course!
“Team E” makes a strong case. After all, the founder of the ‘hood, Guy Carleton, clearly spelled his name with an “E.” “Team No E” points to the street markers that simply say “Carlton Village.” This playful kerfuffle only goes to show you the fun-loving nature of residents in the community.
However you spell it, Carleton Village is undeniably a working-class area, with a down-to-earth population that is warm and welcoming. If you’re searching for a peaceful way of life that is still full of adventures, it’s the perfect place to call home.
The exciting shopping district on St. Clair Avenue is nearby, with cafes and unique shops just waiting to be browsed. Earlscourt Park and the recreation centre offer a never-ending list of fun things to do, like splashing in the outdoor pool in the summer, gliding on the skating rink in the winter, or working out in the gym anytime.
True to its historic roots, Carleton Village offers housing options in traditional Victorian styles. Some have been remodelled with a modern look to strike the right balance between old and new.
Looking for something fun to do in Toronto? The posts below will fill your head with ideas:
- Our Top Activities for Retirees in the West End
- Discover the Wonderland of Family-Friendly Parks in Toronto’s West End
- Top Hiking Trails In The West End
Dovercourt Village
Are you the type of person who prefers to walk or cycle everywhere and only drives when absolutely necessary? Dovercourt Village might just deserve your attention, with its reputation as a pedestrian neighbourhood. This mostly residential area also has its share of independently-owned storefronts and cozy eateries. The Dovercourt Village BIA runs along Dupont Street and Hallam Street to Ossington Avenue, which means anything you need is conveniently nearby.
Outside, it’s refreshing to see kids playing and laughing rather than being inside glued to their screens. Six acres of green space at Dovercourt Park provide plenty of opportunities to enjoy the fresh air, whether you’re playing a game of tennis, skating on the rink, or cooling off in the wading pool.
As a neighbourhood that’s always evolving, Dovercourt Village also offers a variety of housing styles. Many of the original Edwardian-style homes still stand, while others have been converted into multi-unit dwellings. No matter where you look, you’ll see families, young professionals, and artistic types happily going about their day.
Planning to buy a house within the next year or two? The posts below can help you plan:
- How Much House Can I Afford?
- Buying a House in Ontario: Why Work With Us
- 5 Questions to Ask About a Home Before Making an Offer
Dufferin Grove
Dufferin Grove lies a little closer to downtown Toronto, which makes it ideal for everyone who wants the excitement of big city life. Your neighbours include Little Italy, Trinity Bellwoods, and West Queen West, so you will always have something to do. Perhaps more importantly, there will always be an amazing place to eat!
Close proximity to some of Toronto’s top restaurants, a farmer’s market, an outdoor skating rink (with music!) and an adventure playground make Dufferin Grove a fun place to live or visit.
The Dufferin Mall and a host of retailers along Dupont Street and Bloor Street also make it highly convenient. You’ll find fashion boutiques and specialty food shops, you name it, without venturing too far from home.
Green spaces like Dufferin Grove Park make it easy to forget how close you are to downtown. This community highlight includes a children’s playground, a sportsfield, and a basketball court, along with unique amenities like a reflexology footpath. There’s even an outdoor oven and table tennis for your next family gathering. It’s no wonder that so many residents consider this innovative park as part of their backyard.
Homes in Dufferin Grove were mostly constructed from the late 1880s through to 1930. Larger than average for Toronto, these Victorian, Edwardian, and English Cottage residences often feature vast front porches and lots of trees. Like any West End neighbourhood, it offers picturesque beauty and an elevated way of life.
Do you want to know more about buying or selling in the West End? Our West Toronto real estate agents are happy to help. Reach out today at 416-769-3437 or email info@sidorovainwood.com with any questions.
