Once a humble hamlet, now a vibrant neighbourhood. Bedford Park began as a stopover for farmers heading to Toronto markets. The Bedford Park Hotel, opening in 1873, likely gave the area its name.
In 1890, Bedford Park joined Davisville and Eglinton to become North Toronto. That same year, the Metropolitan Street Railway arrived encouraging more people to live here. Let’s take a stroll and discover more about Bedford Park.
Bedford Park’s original homes appeared between 1890 and 1940. It was planned as a middle-class area with modest houses. The relocation of the Rosedale Golf Club nearby increased property values. Today, Bedford Park attracts young families with its quiet streets, mature trees, good schools, and parks.
Many original homes still stand. Some have been renovated while others have been replaced by modern houses. Bedford Park mixes old and new construction styles. You’ll find classic Arts and Crafts and Tudor homes alongside contemporary designs.
Bedford Park offers green spaces such as Wanless Park and Bedford Park. These spaces feature playgrounds and sports fields. The George Locke Public Library serves as a community hub for Bedford Park.
Families flock to Bedford Park for its excellent schools. John Wanless Junior Public School and Lawrence Park Collegiate Institute are top choices. Yonge Street provides convenient shopping and dining options. You can find boutiques, cafés, and restaurants. Public transportation and major roads make commuting easy.
Bedford Park boasts a family-centric atmosphere. The Yonge and Lawrence Village area has a tight-knit community with culture, food, and fun. Consider visiting some local favorites here in Bedford Park.
Burger’s Priest offers tasty burgers and shakes. Belly Buster Submarine is known for its delicious subs. The Abbot Pub serves classic pub fare made from scratch. Paradise Comics has a wide selection of comic books and collectibles.
Wanless Park stands as the largest park in Bedford Park. It features tennis courts, a basketball court, a baseball diamond, a playground, and a wading pool. The Bedford Park Community Centre has a gymnasium and an indoor pool.
In 1910, some Bedford Park children walked to John Fisher School. Parents felt the distance was too far for younger kids. So, they started a school in a church on Bowood Avenue. In 1911, Bedford Park Public School opened on Ranleigh Avenue. At the time, Yonge Street was a dirt road and much of the area was farmland.
Originally, Bedford Park Public School had four rooms. Seventy pupils were registered in grades 1 to 4. There were four teachers and one caretaker. The caretaker earned $40 per month.
By the 1920s, 24 new rooms were added. The school looked much like it does today. In 1973, plans to tear down the old building were stopped. Instead, it was renovated, and a new addition with a gymnasium and swimming pool was built.
Bedford Park has evolved over the years. It began as a farming hamlet and became a desirable family neighbourhood. Bedford Park combines historical charm with modern amenities. Its schools, parks, and community feel make it a great place to live. As you leave, remember Bedford Park’s journey from farmland to a vibrant Toronto community.