Overview
Long Branch is a charming, established neighbourhood along Toronto’s waterfront in the city’s southwest. It’s undergoing change with new home developments along Lakeshore Boulevard. The area offers great parks, a local arena, library, waterfront trail, Go Transit station, and a lively shopping district.
History
Alderwood, originally known as New Toronto Park or New Toronto Heights, became more residential in the 1920s, with most development happening post-WWII. The area is named after Robert Johnson, who chose “Alderwood” from the First Nations word for Etobicoke, meaning “the place where the alders grow.” The O’Connor sisters, famous vaudeville performers in the 1910s, also called Alderwood home. Streets are named after early local farmers like Brown, Evans, and Lunness.
Lifestyle
Sherway Gardens is one of Toronto’s top regional shopping centres, just a five-minute drive from the neighbourhood.
Homes
Alderwood’s streets are lined with bungalows and storey-and-a-half homes built in the 1920s to 50s. Many of the older bungalows have been replaced by modern semi-detached and detached homes. The properties are well-maintained, with neat lawns, private driveways, and most houses featuring garages.
Recreation
Alderwood Pool offers various aquatic programs, while the nearby library hosts kids’ and adult activities. The Horner Avenue Senior’s Centre provides events and workshops.
Etobicoke Valley Park connects to the Etobicoke Creek Trail, and Alderwood Memorial Park features a playground. Connorvale Park has a baseball diamond and playground.
Transportation
Buses on Browns Line, Evans, and Horner Avenues connect to the Long Branch Go Transit and TTC station on Lakeshore Boulevard.
Drivers can get downtown in about 20 minutes via Lakeshore Blvd and the Gardiner Expressway. Easy access to Highway 427 and the Queen Elizabeth Way from Browns Line and Evans Avenue.
Alderwood Stats
Neighbourhood content from neighbourhoodguide.com