Introduction
Sandy Hill, one of Ottawa’s oldest suburbs, is bordered by the Rideau Canal and the Rideau River, with Rideau Street and the Byward Market area to the north, and Hwy 417 to the south. This expansive neighbourhood is best known for its proximity to the University of Ottawa as well as its many steep hills – which make walking around this neighbourhood a workout!
Lifestyle
Did you know that Sandy Hill has been home to some of the most influential political members? From John A. MacDonald, Sir Wilfrid Laurier, William Mackenzie-King, to the previous NDP leader Ed Broadbent. Sandy Hill is aptly named for its many large hills and sandy soil, which prevents developers from erecting large buildings.
Dollars & Sense
Yes, students can be loud, but the bonus? They’re gone in the summer. During the school year, many of them lend a helping hand to neighbours in need. And more importantly, parties don’t happen every weekend. The good? This area is full of mature trees, steps from the Rideau Canal and the Rideau River, and the homes are historic, the streets quaint. What more could you ask for?
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
Sandy Hill lacks in the amenities department. Because of its proximity to the ByWard Market, it seems as though businesses don’t want to risk setting up shop in this suburb. You will mostly find coffee shops, takeout food, convenient stores, and pubs: everything a student needs! If you’re looking for something slightly more sophisticated, the ByWard Market is within walking distance and there is also the nearby Rideau Centre.
1.1 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
The highway 417 is within blocks giving you quick and easy access to the rest of the city. There is a bus route that travels throughout the neighbourhood. You can hop on at one end of Sandy Hill, take the bus up the large hill on Somerset St, and then hop off at the top. Perfect for all us lazy folks too sleepy in the morning to climb that hill!
In the Area
Shops and restaurants in Sandy Hill are directed toward the student who lives on a budget. Coffee here is cheap, and not surprisingly, the beer is even cheaper! The affluent residents will not be found biting into a burger at the local Royal Oak.
Meet the Neighbours
This area was once one of the most affluent neighbourhoods in Ottawa, and still boasts those expansive mansions, but now is primarily home to university students. The further you get from campus, you’ll find more young families, older couples, and large embassies. Will you be woken up at 3 a.m. when the students wander home from the bar? Of course, but then they’ll also be woken up when you decide to mow your lawn at 7 a.m.!
The Vibe
Sandy Hill is the type of neighbourhood where inebriated university students can walk home at night, alone, wake up in a nearby park, and realize they still have their wallet. This is a neighbourhood where you will quickly begin to recognize faces, where neighbours watch out for one another, and where people are found to bike or walk most of the time.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
University of Ottawa
Canada’s only officially bilingual university. U of O students make up more than half of the population living in Sandy Hill and that number is expected to grow much larger over the next few years.
more infoStrathcona Park
Located in the east end and bordered by luxurious homes, this park is always busy. Whether it’s kids tobogganing in winter, or soccer players in summer, this green space is much loved by all the residents.
more infoCordon Blue School
This is Canada’s only campus for this posh culinary school. The school attracts some of the best aspiring chefs, and it is also home to one of the only five star restaurants in the city.
more infoRideau Canal
Recognized as the longest skating rink in the winter, this is the hub for sport enthusiasts, sunbathers, and families. With the first sunny spring day, students are known to ditch classes and lay on the grass next to the canal.
more infoSandy Hill Lounge and Grill
Come for the burgers, stay for the variety of beer and delicious dessert! This family-run restaurant is friendly, fun and easy going. The owners are known for their dog treats, which they leave outside for furry friends.
more infoFleur Tea House
The tea house has a wide variety of, you guessed it – tea! They also make smoothies, sandwiches and desserts. After 7 p.m., the restaurant closes, the tables are moved, and this place becomes a salsa dancing hall!
more info