Dreaming of a calm and tranquil life? Keelesdale might just be the place for you. It is a quiet, working-class neighborhood in Toronto. Keelesdale is often referred to as Silverthorn. This area will charm you with its rolling hills. The lush topography south of the lake makes this area unique.
Before we explore further, let’s take a moment to appreciate the history of Keelesdale. The neighborhood was originally part of the Silverthorn area. The Silverthorn family settled here in 1786. Their homestead was near present-day Silverthorn and Eglinton Avenues. In the 1800s, it became prosperous farmland.
Residential development began in 1914. It was then called Silverthorn Heights. By the late 1920s, residents had essential city services. These included water, sewers, and paved roads.
Look around. Most homes in Keelesdale were built between 1914 and 1930. You’ll see two-story detached and semi-detached houses. There are also two-and-a-half-story detached homes and bungalows. These modest brick-and-frame houses exude old-world charm. They sit perched upon gently rolling hills. This gives Keelesdale a village-like setting.
Keelesdale boasts a diverse community. Many religious and cultural institutions thrive here. You will find Presbyterian and Romanian Orthodox churches. There are also Pentecostal churches and a Buddhist temple.
The Evelyn Gregory Public Library offers services to residents. The Silverthorn Public Library is also nearby. It appeared on the Book Mice television show. Children visit to see the home of the book mice. The library staff even conduct Book Mice Tours.
Eglinton Avenue West is a major shopping area. This area is also known as Little Jamaica. You can find many national department and grocery stores.
Rogers Road also has a busy retail strip. The Rui Gomes Meats & Food Market is popular. It offers fresh meat cuts to the Portuguese community.
Are you feeling hungry? Keelesdale offers plentiful dining options. Manisha is a West Indian restaurant chain. It features simple, affordable dishes. Try their flavorful chicken. It is served with a side of rice. Banaboia Restaurant offers authentic Portuguese meals. Their mixed seafood plate is a must-have. Golden Wheat Bakery Café is a local favorite. You’ll find fresh bread and pastries here. Enjoy them on the side patio with a coffee.
For recreation, visit one of Keelesdale’s parks. Trethewey Park is a nature revitalization area. It sits on the banks of the Black Creek. Coronation Park offers sports and leisure. There are T-ball and softball leagues here. You can also find tennis courts and a playground. North Keelesdale Park and Keelesdale South Park have sports fields and baseball diamonds.
The Centennial Recreation Centre has an indoor swimming pool. The Chris Tonks Arena is perfect for winter activities.
Keelesdale is accessible by public transport. Bus service is available on Eglinton, Keele, and Rogers Road. These buses connect to subway lines. Drivers have easy access to Black Creek Drive. It connects to Highways 400 and 401. Downtown Toronto is about 20 minutes away via Keele Street.
Keelesdale offers a slower pace of life. It is appealing to those seeking affordable housing. Many residents have lived here for years. They have built a supportive community.
Keelesdale is named after Keele Street. This street runs north and south through the neighborhood. Now you know a bit more about this charming area. Take a walk. Explore Keelesdale’s peaceful streets. Experience the simple life for yourself.