Introduction
The first neighbourhood in Guelph to exclusively feature traffic circles (or roundabouts, if you prefer), Pine Ridge/ Westminster Woods has a deliberate vaguely English feel, complete with its own tiny Big Ben-style clock tower! The ruins of the old Hanlon family Pig Barn have been turned into a small parkette, and one of the red brick farm houses is still extant and occupied, its peaked roof blending in beautifully with the more modern homes that surround it and echo its style.
Lifestyle
Sporty, upwardly mobile and ecologically minded, the Pine Ridge/ Westminster Woods area appeals to those who like their suburban conveniences served with an artisanal, sustainable, do-gooder flair. Despite the relative affluence, residents are laid-back, friendly and outgoing, and back yard fences are to protect pools more than privacy.
Dollars & Sense
Pine Ridge/Westminster Woods is fairly self-contained. You could easily live in the area without ever venturing into the city proper. At the same time, it’s easy to forget that there’s anything outside this suburban paradise, and its distance from the rest of Guelph means some inhabitants have never gotten to know the city’s core. It’s got an ‘Anyplace, Ontario’ feel, with a less distinctive personality than older neighbourhoods, which may change with time.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
There are several elementary schools, as well as Bishop Macdonnell Catholic High School is just across Gordon St. The South End Emergency Services station next door houses firefighters, EMS workers and police. Playgrounds abound, with seven in the immediate area, playing fields and baseball diamonds for community use. The Guelph Public Library has a large branch in Westminster Woods, and all major banks and amenities are within easy reach.
Distance from City Hall
6.1 km
6.1 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
It’s a commuter’s paradise, convenient to all highways in the area. While luxury sedans and SUVs are common, many residents abandon cars after work hours and take advantage of the network of trails and bike lanes connecting the residential streets to parks and shopping areas. During the academic year, city bus routes help transport students to public high schools and University of Guelph.
In the Area
Higher property values are reflected in most lifestyle choices here. This is not a great option for the budget-conscious, but those with healthy disposable incomes will find it appealing. While there’s a very large and popular discount grocery store holding down some prime real estate, people here seem more than happy to pay above-average prices and the chain restaurants opening franchise locations here tend towards the urban and upscale.
Meet the Neighbours
Active, affluent professionals and their families make up the bulk of the population. Many have moved here from out of town but you’ll also find lifelong Guelphites who have seen the area develop from woodlands to dream home territory, and were lucky enough to get in while the neighbourhood was still affordable.
The Vibe
Upscale without being exclusive, this is a friendly and lively neighbourhood, where those who live in million-dollar homes meet the occupants of slightly more affordable townhouses and condominiums somewhere in the upper middle. It’s a busy place, home to several entrepreneurial businesses (including photography, landscaping, pet boarding/grooming, and web marketing) and the retail offerings at Pergola Commons and other plazas.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
Planet Bean Coffee
This south-end outpost of Guelph’s very own fair trade coffee co-op is a favourite. Ethically grown coffee beans of diverse provenance are roasted right here, where they’re brewed and served alongside an excellent variety of baked goods.
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Borealis Grille and Bar
Borealis serves up locally sourced, heritage-and-sustainability-minded dining. It’s busy day and night, serving lunch, drinks and dinner to professionals working nearby, couples, families, sports teams and other groups who flock to the gorgeous patio.
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State and Main
This Alberta steakhouse and oyster bar recently opened its second location in Ontario right here, and locals are raving. On the pricier end of the spectrum, it’s been swamped with patrons since opening in the spring of 2014.
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Pine Ridge Park
Pine Ridge is a park popular with the young single professionals who congregate here for league-organized (softball, baseball, ultimate Frisbee) and informal (dog walking, running, soccer) athletic pursuits. Those with kids enjoy the well-equipped, recently updated playground.
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Sweet Temptations Cupcakery
This beloved niche bakery boasts unique varieties that change weekly, with staples like gluten-free and vegan options always on the menu. Pink Lemonade is a summertime favourite, while Ferrero Nutella and French Toast are warm winter options.
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Lucie’s Bakery & Deli
This “mom and pop” deli has an old-world feel, offering traditional cakes, cookies, pastries, store-made sandwiches, salads and soups for take-out. Lucie’s caters, and has a great reputation for its gluten free bread – the best in town!
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