Port Hope
Active Tuesday, May 01, 2012
Settled in the late 1790s by Em - pire Loyalists, much of the beauty and charm of that era is still evident in and around Port Hope. As the winner of “Best Preserved Main Street in Ontario”, awarded by TVOntario, the town is known for its more than 290 beautifully restored early houses and buildings; more per capita that anywhere else in Canada.
Of interest to discerning collectors, Port Hope has many antique dealers, as well as a fine selection of men’s and ladies’ apparel shops, home decor, galleries, and specialty stores. You’ll discover many fine restaurants, bistros, cafes, pubs and tea shops, too.
In addition to the numerous bed and breakfasts and inns, the Dorset Manor Spa sits atop a hill overlooking the downtown, with vistas of Lake Ontario, offering first-class overnight experiences. And, every Saturday morning and Wednesday afternoon from May to October, the Farmers’ Market showcases an abundance of seasonal vegetables, local meats, honey, preserves, flowers and crafts.
One of the last remaining atmospheric theatres in operation in Canada today, the Capitol Theatre gives patrons the illusion of sitting in an outdoor medieval castle courtyard, under a blue star-studded sky with moving clouds. The fully restored theatre seats 380 in air-conditioned comfort. This multipurpose facility is an exceptional venue for live theatre, concerts, films and private functions. The theatre operates a professional summer season of plays under the name of the Port Hope Festival Theatre.
The Municipality of Port Hope offers some of the most diverse year-round fishing in Ontario. Anglers can fly fish in the majestic Ganaraska River that runs through the heart of town and empties into Lake Ontario. Excellent for trout and salmon fishing, charter boats will take anglers out on Lake Ontario during the summer months.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the hiking trails along Lake Ontario, the Ganaraska River, and in the Ganar - aska Forest Centre. New to the Forest Centre this year is Tree Top Trekking, an aerial adventure tour using platforms, ropes, bridges and zip lines.
The Waterfront Trail and country side roads are perfect for cyclists to take a scenic tour through the Munici - pality’s pretty villages and hamlets. The Port Hope Golf and County Club offers a challenging 18-hole course overlooking Lake Ontario. And, one of Port Hope’s best-kept secrets is a bowling green established in 1900.
1.888.767.8467 / porthopetourism.ca.