Introduction
Carlingwood is an expansive neighbourhood in Ottawa that runs east-west from Golden Ave to Woodroffe Ave., and north-south from the Sir John A MacDonald Parkway to Hwy. 417. Nowhere else in Ottawa will you find such an interesting mix of people. A group of seniors out for their daily walk at the Carlingwood Shopping Centre could easily bump into one of the many Ottawa Senators who call Carlingwood home.
Lifestyle
Carlingwood could be your home if you have the cash to spend on a luxurious property in Glabar Park or McKellar Park, if you are a senior hoping to get close to your friends at the Carlingwood mall, or if you’re a young family looking for a deal. Some homes need work, while others are in pristine condition. Former Ottawa Senator Jason Spezza used to live in Glabar Park.
The Vibe
Nestled between upscale Westboro and the more modest Britannia, Carlingwood offers an appealing balance. Though the population of Carlingwood may range on the economic scale, neighbours cohabitate comfortably with one another in a neighbourhood equipped to meet everyone’s needs. Area services and amenities are more than sufficient for residents on a budget, and neighbouring Westboro offers specialty shopping for those with a taste for the finer things in life.
Meet the Neighbours
With many top-notch schools, large properties and greenspaces, Carlingwood is popular with families. People who can’t afford the rising prices of Westboro, or who just want a quieter neighbourhood, often choose Carlingwood. Glabar Park and McKellar Park are often occupied with older couples, families with teenagers and retirees. Townhomes, semi-detached houses and apartments off of Carling Ave. are great places for first-time buyers or retirees looking to downsize.
In the Area
Restaurants and shops reflect the widespread financial profile in this area. Enjoy a Starbucks coffee or run in to the Esso for its low-cost equivalent. Most of the stores are geared toward families and those looking for deals. More affluent residents prefer to head to Westboro to do their shopping, as these stores meet their higher end needs.
13.6 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Hwy. 417 is only blocks away, and Carling Ave. will easily take you from Kanata to downtown. On days when the 417 is backed up, hop on Carling and take it in whatever direction you want to go. You’ll be surprised at how much faster it is! There are also many bus routes that travel along Carling, plus you’re close to the O-Train and many bike paths.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
You won’t find many gluten-free or vegan restaurants, but there are lots of fast food and take-out joints and fancier places. Carlingwood Shopping Centre is great for those quick stops, or if you prefer to shop in relative peace. If you’re looking for the marathon shopping experience, you’re just minutes from the newly renovated Bayshore Shopping Centre. Students enjoy the proximity to Carleton University and Algonquin College.
Dollars & Sense
The good? You’re close to greenspace, public transit, schools, stores, restaurants, everything! The bad? Woodroffe, an important connector road between downtown and Barrhaven, is a busy street. If you buy or rent a property on Woodroffe, you’ll face traffic noises and speeding cars 24/7. Carling is not any better, but traffic is an unavoidable downside to any neighbourhood within Ottawa’s greenbelt.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
Ottawa Family Cinema
Located at Notre-Dame High School during the school year, this family-friendly cinema plays a great selection of kid films. Perfect for mom to get out of the house without worrying about baby crying in public.
more infoNCC Parkway
There are great bike paths all around the Carlingwood area. And as a bonus, in the summer, the parkway closes to vehicles on Sundays and opens up to cyclist and pedestrians.
more infoCarlingwood Shopping Centre
Home to a wide array of shops, this often quiet mall is great if you are looking to pop in to the drugstore or to Sears.
more infoDovercourt Recreation Centre
This is a great place for families and seniors alike. Stop in for the open swims, work up a sweat in the fitness classes – all in a judgment-free environment.
more infoSilver Spoon
Come up for great Thai food in a wonderful atmosphere. This restaurant has top ratings on the Urbanspoon.
more infoThe Keg Manor
This is a historic home on the grounds of the lush Maplelawn gardens. Enjoy a first-class steak meal and then spend the evening walking through the walled gardens.
more info