Living in Trinity Bellwoods: One of the City’s Hottest Neighbourhoods

Considering a move to Trinity Bellwoods? Learn what makes this hip west-end enclave stand out…

Few neighbourhoods are as charming and truly alive as Trinity Bellwoods. Somehow, the area’s Victorian homes, abundant greenery, and general sense of community blend seamlessly with its thriving nightlife and trendy local businesses. The result is a community that’s buzzing with culture, yet relaxed enough to provide a refuge from the city’s core. From lively Ossington to peaceful Shaw Street to the coolness that is Dundas West, Trinity Bellwoods is a part of what makes Toronto so unique. If you’re thinking of making the area your new home, here’s what you should know…

The basics

Trinity Bellwoods is bordered by Queen Street West to the south and College Street to the north. Its western border is Dovercourt, and to the east it’s Bathurst. The enclave that lies between these bustling corridors has everything residents could ever need—and more. If that weren’t enough, the neighbourhood is just a stone’s throw from other charming west-end areas—like Little Portugal, Little Italy, West Queen West, and Dufferin Grove.

Families in Trinity Bellwoods benefit from close proximity to fantastic schools. These include Ossington/Old Orchard Junior Public School, Charles G. Fraser Junior Public School, and St. Mary’s Catholic Secondary School (among others). There’s also a wide variety of major grocery chains and smaller specialty food stores in the neighbourhood.

Who lives here

Trinity Bellwoods has a youthful-yet-sophisticated vibe, which makes it perfect for creative professionals. Young families looking for both urban living and a strong sense of community are equally suited to living in the area. There’s also a sizeable Portuguese community in the neighbourhood, adding to its overall diversity.

Where to eat & shop

Living in Trinity Bellwoods means having many of the city’s hippest eateries and trendiest boutiques right at your doorstep. Union is one of our favourite restaurants in the area. This little bistro is all about local ingredients and updated French classics. Nearby, Soos serves up its unique interpretations of Malaysian street food, while Grand Electric offers tacos that provide a flavourful punch. Of course, we couldn’t forget Bellwoods Brewery. At this neighbourhood staple, you’ll find creative bar snacks that are perfectly complemented by an impressive craft beer selection.

Looking to do some shopping? For unique women’s streetwear, try Gaspard. This Parisian-inspired boutique offers designer items that fashion lovers will adore. Victoire Boutique carries a wide selection of clothing from Canadian designers, while Armed is the local go-to for cutting-edge jewellery and accessories. Try Park and Province for a carefully-curated selection of men’s basics, and ella + elliot for stylish modern baby gear.

Things to do

We couldn’t possibly write this post without discussing Trinity Bellwoods Park. This 14.6-hectare park is one of the largest and most popular in the city. You’ll find tennis and volleyball courts, an ice rink, an off-leash dog area, and (of course) plenty of gorgeous green space. During the right season, you’ll also find the neighbourhood’s farmers market at the northwest end of the park.

Trinity Bellwoods is also a hub for visual arts, and there are several can’t-miss galleries in the area. Some of our favourites include Pari Nadimi Gallery (where you’ll find progressive art from around the globe) and Susan Hobbs Gallery (where you’ll see a range of contemporary Canadian pieces). After checking out the galleries, why not grab a coffee from White Squirrel, Ella’s Uncle, or Sam James (all great places for espresso and other treats).

Getting around

Trinity Bellwoods isn’t right downtown, which is part of what some residents love about it. That said, the area is incredibly walkable—and well served by transit, which makes getting to the city’s centre (and its many corners) a breeze. Streetcars run along Ossington and Bathurst, connecting residents to the Bloor-Danforth subway line. Drivers have an easy commute via Lakeshore Boulevard or the Gardiner Expressway, which are just a few minutes away.

Real estate

Trinity Bellwoods is a treasure trove of beautiful older architecture. You’ll find an abundance of Victorian and Edwardian homes, with many detached, semi-detached, and rowhouse options available. Pricewise, these homes typically fall with the $600K to $1.7M range. Lots in the neighbourhood tend to be narrow, and many of them look out onto Trinity Bellwoods Park.

You’ll also find an assortment of low-rise condo buildings and lofts in the area. An agent who’s a neighbourhood expert can give you more information about the sticker prices and maintenance fees for units in Trinity Bellwoods.

Have questions about living in Trinity Bellwoods? We have in-depth knowledge about what life in the neighbourhood is really like. Send us a message, and we can discuss what you’re looking for!