The Vibe
Nestled just south of Regent Park, north of the Gardiner, and between Berkley Street and the Don River is the Toronto neighbourhood of Corktown. The name stems from the Irish immigrants that hailed from Cork Country and settled among the distilleries and breweries in the Toronto core.
Historically, Corktown is also the site of the first Toronto Roman Catholic church and the first free school in Toronto known as Enoch Turner Schoolhouse founded in 1848 by its namesake—a local philanthropist and successful brewer. The building still stands as a museum offering tours and private events.
The Homes
The initial housing development mirrored that of the British row-house to which the settlers were most familiar and many can still be seen along the neighbourhoods side streets of Bright Street, Trinity Street, Ashby Place, Wilkins Avenue and Gilead Place all named to reflect the Ex-Pats’ homeland. Once industrial development began, making room for additional roadways and businesses, some of the residential zones were lost and but made a comeback with the gentrification process of the 1970’s.
Currently, buyers can get in the market for just under $500,000 and enjoy an affordable neighbourhood close to the heart of downtown. Many homes for sale include Victorian Mews, row-houses, and now the trendy new condos that have taken shape from old conversions and new builds.
Who Lives Here?
There are schools for both the public and catholic sector, along with alternative community high school Inglenook which offers a variety of specialty programs to senior students in a historic building in the heart of Corktown!
What's There To Do?
In terms of green space, the Sackville Playground offers families of all ages a perfect haven for fitness, swimming, sports, and even has a tot park and wading pool all located along King Street East. For those looking for more in terms of cardio and weights, the John Innes Community Recreation centre is nearby on Sherbourne and features and indoor pool, gym, running track, and is adjacent to Moss Park hockey arena.
Shopping and dining facilities are limited, but the esteemed St. Lawrence Market is within walking distance and offers the best of fresh fish, specialty meats, cheeses and more!
What About Commuting?
Commuters have quick access to the Queen and King Street streetcars which connect passengers to the Yonge-University-Spadina subway line and the Parliament streetcar will take you to Castle Frank station along the Bloor-Danforth line. Motorists can make us of the DVP, Gardiner and Lakeshore Boulevard.
