Introduction
The elegant heritage neighbourhood of Old North London is bounded by Windermere in the north, and Oxford Street to the south. The Thames River and Adelaide Street mark its western and eastern borders. It's a popular neighbourhood for staff at the University of Western Ontario as well students who are looking for an alternative to dormitory living.
Lifestyle
Healthy, active people enjoying the finer things in life is what Old North London’s all about. This isn’t the most “happening” part of the city, but there’s still a lot happening, from the sports fields to the research breakthroughs at the University of Western Ontario. It’s ideal for those who like the quiet life: an aesthete’s dream from an architectural standpoint, and a safe neighbourhood for people of all ages.
The Vibe
More stately and affluent than the trendy neighbouring areas to the south, Old North London has a distinctly respectable feel that isn’t quite as palpable in other parts of the city. The area is dominated by institutions, and backs onto the University of Western Ontario’s campus via the famous Richmond Gates. It’s quiet and scenic, a refined escape from all of the excitement offered downtown.
Meet the Neighbours
Affluent families with children flock to Old North London, and people under the age of 19 make up almost 20 per cent of the population, according to the 2011 Census. Married couples without children at home are well represented, and many academics (both active and Emeritus) also call the area home. Given the abundance of high-density housing and proximity to campus, it’s also a very desirable location for students.
In the Area
The University of Western Ontario and its affiliate colleges offer a host of amenities that locals can access. The University Tennis Centre, which offers lessons to all ages and league play seven days a week for adults, is very popular. Numerous parks add to the ambience of this very green neighbourhood, including Ross, Broughdale, Tetherwood, North Branch, and Doidge Park.
7.3 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
This can be a very pedestrian-friendly area, particularly if you’re a student, with the campus in easy reach. But bigger houses mean bigger blocks, and a long walk to places like the supermarket in this heavily residential area, so most homeowners find cars necessary. Cyclists have access to a good network of bike paths linking various parts of the university to the city streets and parks.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
Despite the presence of students, this is a fairly quiet, rather patrician neighbourhood. That can be great if you like everything just so, and don’t mind traveling a few kilometres to find decent dining and shopping options. But realistically, it’s not particularly convenient to anything except the hospital and the university.
Dollars & Sense
This is an extremely upscale neighbourhood, with home prices significantly higher than elsewhere in the city. Take-out establishments catering largely to students offer decent prices, but everything else is going to cost you a little more up here. Townhouses and small cottages offer inexpensive opportunities for buyers to gain a foothold in this extremely popular location.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
Gammage Flowers
Knowing a good florist is essential to social success in Old North London. This one – dating back to two years after Confederation – is officially Canada’s oldest flower shop.
more infoTetherwood Spa
Tetherwood Spa is a full-service “oasis of tranquility” provides skin and nail treatments (including “Sport Manicure and Pedicure” for men), massage therapy, eyelash work and waxing in a quiet and luxurious setting.
more infoThe Pristine Olive Tasting Bar
This purveyor of delicious salad lube offers customers the opportunity to taste all its products before purchase. Carrying only current crop olive oils from around the world, their oils all meet the Ultra Premium standard.
more infoUnited Supermarket
This huge and impressive grocery store (with notably ample parking) specializes in ingredients and cuisine from China, Vietnam, Korea and other Asian countries. Open 7 days a week, closed only on statutory holidays.
more infoMerla Mae Ice Cream
Dishing out soft serve ice cream through their legendary windows since 1957, Merla Mae’s is a North London favourite. They’re also famous for shakes, malts, ice cream cakes and pies.
more infoNorth London Athletic Fields
These fields are the site of intense athletic competitions within London’s active recreational sports community. Upgrades to the location have helped it attain “premier sports facility” status, with a field house, three baseball diamonds, and six soccer pitches
more info