Rural Hamilton
Flamborough
Flamborough comprises of several smaller communities including, but not limited to Rockton, Waterdown, Freelton and Greensville. The communities are primarily rural with a small town feel. The majority of the area sits atop the Niagara Escarpment, with the Spencer’s Gorge and Webster’s Falls Conservation Area looking down over the Dundas Valley. Waterdown is one of the more “urban” communities with many new developments completed and underway, with access to a lot of the major chain restaurants and power centres along Highway 8.
things to do
Westfield Heritage Village
Offers up interactive learning about pioneer living throughout the year, with Maple Syrup festival in Winter, and Ice Cream Festival in the summer!
Christie Lake
A popular area that offers hiking, fishing and boating. It is also the host of many events over the year.
Flamboro Downs
An outdoor horse track as well as an OLG Slots Casino.
African Lion Safari
This has been a family favourite since I was a kid – so that’s saying a lot. Located North West of Rockton, you can drive through it, take a boat cruise and take part in the splash park.
Rockton Worlds Fair
Hosted every Thanksgiving weekend featuring a traditional carnival midway, lots of rides and exhibits and of course the Giant Pumpkin competition.
Glanbrook
Glanbrook, situated South East of Hamilton proper, is a largely rural farming community that includes Binbrook and Mount Hope. In recent years there have been more new housing subdivisions popping up in Binbrook, as well as more retail and commercial outlets to serve the growing population. Mount Hope is home to the The Hamilton International Airport which operates as one of the country’s busiest domestic terminals, it also runs commercial passenger service as well.
things to do
Canadian Heritage War Plane Museum
Located on the property of the Hamilton Airport – it currently houses over 40 planes, including the famous Lancaster. The hangar’s host all sorts of public events throughout the year and is available for private events including weddings.
The Binbrook Conservation area offers swimming, fishing and picnicking areas on the Lake Niapenco reservoir – you can rent or bring your own boats, and they have fishing derbies and movie nights in the summer. It’s also home to the Tyneside Stargazing Trail.
Bennett’s Apples & Cider
You don’t want to miss a visit to this place – the cider donuts made fresh on site are to die for.