Kent BrownYou probably thought Toronto’s charm was all about its towering skyscrapers, diverse neighborhoods, and bustling city life. But what if I told you that within this lively metropolis lie hidden gems that transport you back in time?
Join me on a journey as we uncover the mystique of Toronto’s four lesser-known historic castles, adding a touch of medieval magic to our beloved city.
1. Casa Loma
Address: 1 Austin Terrace, Toronto, ON M5R 1X8, Canada
Phone: 416 923 1171
Website: http://www.casaloma.ca/
Casa Loma in midtown Toronto is an awesome Gothic Revival mansion and garden, built between 1911 and 1914 for Sir Henry Pellatt, a big-shot financier. The guy behind the design, E. J. Lennox also left his mark on other city landmarks.
Casa Loma isn’t just a dusty old house; it’s a historic house museum that locals love to check out. You can wander around and soak up the history or catch some fun activities and performances that are perfect for the whole family.
Casa Loma has become a bit of a celebrity in its own right, featuring in movies and TV shows. So, you might recognize some spots from your favorite films (like X-Men, Scott Pilgrim vs. the World, The Pacifier, and more) when you visit.
If you’re feeling the love, Casa Loma has got you covered for weddings too. They open up the place for ceremonies, and you can even rent it out in the evenings for that extra special touch.
2. Dundurn Castle
Address: 610 York Blvd, Hamilton, ON L8R 3E7, Canada
Phone: 905 521 3168
Website: https://www.hamilton.ca/
Ever heard about Dundurn Castle in Hamilton? It’s this awesome neoclassical mansion on York Boulevard that’s a real hidden gem.
Built back in the 1830s, this 40-room Italianate-style villa has some serious history behind it.
It’s standing on the grounds where the British had a fortified military camp in 1813 on Burlington Heights.
It took a good three years and $175,000 to put this beauty together, and it was finally done in 1835.
Now, let me spill some tea about Dundurn Castle’s social scene. It has played host to illustrious guests such as Sir John A. Macdonald and King Edward VII.
Known for its grand entertainments, the castle has witnessed events that echo the grandeur of its past.
Fast forward to today; the rooms inside have been restored to 1855, reflecting the pinnacle of Sir Allan Napier MacNab, 1st Baronet’s career and ownership.
The City of Hamilton scooped it up in 1899 or 1900 for just $50,000!
The castle underwent extensive renovations costing nearly $3 million, transforming it into a captivating historic site accessible to the public.
Dundurn Castle is now a National Historic Site of Canada, and you can actually tour it from Tuesday to Sunday; they’re open from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.
3. Euclid Hall (Keg Mansion)
Address: 515 Jarvis St, Toronto, ON M4Y 2H7, Canada
Phone: 416 964 6609
Website: http://www.thekeg.com/en/locations/mansion
Let me tell you about Euclid Hall, or, as we locals affectionately call it, the Keg Mansion. This place has a history that goes way back to 1867 when it was built for Arthur McMaster, nephew of the influential Canadian senator and banker William McMaster.
In 1882, Hart Massey and his wife took over, giving the mansion a serious makeover – a turret, a verandah, and a greenhouse.
Over the years, Euclid Hall underwent numerous transformations, from a private residence to a women’s college, a veterans hospital, an art and antiques gallery, and even the inaugural home of CFRB radio station.
The turning point came in 1976 when the building found its current identity as The Keg Steakhouse + Bar – Mansion. Today, visitors can enjoy a meal in this historic setting, with the restaurant’s interior preserving the charm and character of the original mansion.
Now, here’s the cool (or maybe spooky) part: this place is rumored to have some ghostly residents.
People talk about a maid ghost connected to Lillian Massey Treble, Hart Massey’s daughter. Tragic stuff happened too, like Massey’s daughter passing away, a maid hanging herself, and a little boy taking a fatal tumble down the stairs.
Some people even claim they’ve seen the little guy on those stairs, adding to the mystique and eerie aura that envelops the Keg Mansion.
But don’t let the ghost stories scare you off – the Keg Mansion is all about good food and a chill atmosphere.
4. Willistead Manor
Address: 1899 Niagara St, Windsor, ON N8Y 1K3, Canada
Phone: 519 253 2365
Website: https://www.citywindsor.ca/residents/culture/willistead-manor
Willistead Manor was designed by the renowned architect Albert Kahn in the 16th-century Tudor-Jacobean style of an English manor house.
It was commissioned by Edward Chandler Walker, the second son of Hiram Walker, and constructed between 1904 and 1906.
Today, this 36-room mansion has been turned into a banquet hall, and the place is surrounded by fifteen acres of green goodness, blending right into a public park. It’s like a little oasis in the middle of the city.
And get this: you can actually rent it out for stuff like weddings, corporate shindigs, and private parties. Imagine throwing your own party in a place with so much history!
Plus, during Christmas, they deck the whole place out with festive decorations. It’s like stepping into a holiday movie.
