It’s no wonder this delightfully scenic town is a hot spot for movie shoots. With its pristine main street—adorned with huge hanging baskets and big tubs of flowers—the place appears to be in a perpetual state of Sunday best. Though it was originally settled by German immigrants in 1794, it got its name in the middle of the 19th century, and is thought to be a reference to the union of Upper and Lower Canada. Its historical claim to fame is its association with F.H. Varley of the Group of Seven. From 1957 to 1969, Varley lived in the home of Kathleen Gormley McKay; she and her husband, Donald, were devoted patrons of the artist. Their Gothic revival house still stands on Main Street, and the first floor is now rented to local artists as a gallery. The Varley Art Gallery of Markham (905-477-9511) is a few doors down. Head back out to Main Street to one of 14 eateries, or poke about in the Queen’s Pantry (905-477-4625), which specializes in furniture, accessories and cozy quilts.
Driving Time:
half an hour.
Location
  • map marker #1
    Hwy. 404 to Hwy. 7, east on Main St.

Large map

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