Introduction to Summerhill Properties
Summerhill properties are beautiful to look at and a joy to live in. They are located within a neighbourhood of well-regarded public and private schools, all while being in close proximity to the downtown core. Owning one of Summerhill’s properties would instantly make one of the most desirable neighbourhoods in all of Toronto your new home. Here are some facts about why I love this neighbourhood so much and why you should consider Summerhill properties when looking for your next home.
History of Summerhill Toronto
Summerhill derives its name from a stunning regency cottage named Summer Hill House. While the house itself is no longer erect, you can still see the Summer Hill Coach House at the rear of 36 Summerhill Gardens: it boasts an outstanding slate roof which can be seen as far as the south end of the Rosehill Reservoir.
Around the 1880s, Summerhill developed around the North Toronto Railway station which in the 1920s, became the main station of the Canadian Pacific Railway. While the railway prospered in a golden era until 1931, it has since been repurposed, but you can still visit the grand clock tower and LCBO which are housed at the railway station’s original headquarters. As part of the provincial government’s MoveOntario 2020 program, it is intended that the this location will be reverted to its original use as a train station for the planned GO Transit Midtown line.
Types of homes in Summerhill
Summerhill is a bastion of architectural marvels. Here you will find Edwardian and Victorian homes built between 1880 and 1915. Their interiors are just as stunning as their exteriors. The only word of warning is that Summerhill homes often lack parking on their properties themselves. The City of Toronto offers street parking throughout the neighbourhood for a nominal annual fee. If you prefer the condo lifestyle, you will also find a significant number of low-rise luxury condominiums built mainly in the 1980s and 1990s.
Many homes in Summerhill have glorious views. One example is the David A. Balfour Park which is located on Pleasant Boulevard. Dubbed by many as one of Toronto’s prettiest parks, you can enjoy a children’s playground, a reflecting pool, a waterfall and a water fountain. There is also the Rosehill Reservoir Park which makes you feel like you are in the middle of the woods while still being in Toronto. Off Birch Avenue you will find Lionel Conacher Park, named after a Canadian pre-eminent athlete in the first half of the 20th century.
For those who are fans of sports, Summerhill is home to the Cottingham Tennis Club which dates back to the 1920s. It is open three seasons of the year and is the perfect place to play or spectate excellent tennis matches.
Please take some time to enjoy my own Summerhill guide here. I would also love to help you find your next dream home! If you would like to learn more about how to make Summerhill your new neighbourhood, please be in touch:
