Introduction
Armdale is a large residential community in Halifax that's known for its scenic views of the water. It spans from Highway 102 in the north to Purcell's Cove in the south, and from west to east at Northwest Arm Drive and Joseph Howe Drive. Home of the Armdale Yacht Club, residents of the neighbourhood certainly make use of the waters in this picturesque community.
Lifestyle
Consisting mostly of single-family homes and small apartment buildings, Armdale is a quiet family-centric neighbourhood with little commercial development and lots of waterside properties. Residents mostly commute to work in order to take advantage of their home area’s plentiful lakes, parks and beaches. Life is leisurely, particularly in the summer months when the proximity to the water is appreciated.
The Vibe
With the Armdale Yacht Club St. Mary’s Boat Club and the Ashburn Golf Club all within its borders, Armdale can give the appearance of a summer resort town. Boat culture reigns and the number of small water vessels on the Northwest Arm provide picture-perfect moments. It’s a great neighbourhood to spend the day outside, either by the water or walking through Sir Sandford Fleming Park.
Meet the Neighbours
The neighbourhood is largely middle-class, with pockets of upscale waterfront homes in areas like Purcell's Cove. There is an abundance of active family life throughout the community, centred around the area’s Wee Bairn Preschool and Chebucto Heights Elementary, while French-speaking families may opt for the immersion program at Ecole John W. MacLeod.
In the Area
Armdale affords you the chance to head down to Sir Sandford Flemming Park and check out the Dingle Tower, or go for a swim at Cunard Beach and then grab a bite at The Armview Restaurant. There’s also Deadman’s Island, which contains a heritage site that was formerly an amusement park in the early 1900s.
6.3 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Armdale is very transit-friendly, as numerous bus routes travel along Purcell's Cove, Herring Cove and Cowie Hill Roads, offering an easy commute to downtown Halifax. The Armdale Roundabout allows for quick transfers or access to the 103 towards Nova Scotia’s South Shore. Bedford is also close at hand via the nearby onramp to the Bedford Highway.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
Despite its relative proximity to downtown Halifax, Armdale is often considered to be “out of town” and some people may find it feels distant to the city’s main attractions. However, commuting time from Armdale to downtown is quite manageable, and the neighbourhood's lovely residential area offers enough amenities to keep residents satisfied while maintaining an accessible distance to Halifax’s more urban pursuits.
Dollars & Sense
Things are pretty affordable in this neighbourhood, with restaurants like The Armview offering up family fare at reasonable prices. Costs go up the closer you get to the Armdale Yacht and Ashburn Golf Clubs, but the numerous parks are completely free to enjoy, and the region’s natural elements are what attract visitors the most.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
The Armview Restaurant
An old-style diner with booths and loads of options for burgers and comfort food. Locals love the amazing breakfast menu. It’s been open for decades and is a staple of the community.
more infoThe Armdale Yacht Club
Nova Scotia’s second oldest yacht club, The Armdale Yacht Club has existed in one form or another since 1732. These days, it’s home to the AYC Opening Regatta and races during the season.
more infoSir Sanford Fleming Park
A huge park located right by the water full of walking paths and places to hang out on the beach. Also home to the Dingle Tower, a large memorial structure definitely worth checking out.
more infoSt. Mary’s Boat Club
Originally built in 1905, the St. Mary’s Boat Club still operates an assortment of recreational programs, along with a hall available to rent for wedding receptions and other large events.
more infoChocolate Lake
Chocolate Lake is a quiet swimming hole that rests within the residential area of Armdale. The city provides lifeguards in the summer, but it tends to crowd up quickly on hot days.
more infoDeadman’s Island Park
Initially a burial ground for soldiers of Melville Island in the 1800s, Deadman’s Island Park has gone through several incarnations – including an amusement park – but is now considered a heritage site worth visiting.
more info