London is a city in Ontario and has long been an important economic force for the region. The London Metropolitan Area spans over 12 counties in Southwestern Ontario, and it’s considered one of Canada’s fastest-growing communities. The London area is a great place to live. The quality of life in London is one of the highest in Canada, and the city offers many opportunities for success, whether that’s through education or work. Read through if you’re looking for more information about this beautiful city.
More About London Ontario
London is known as the “Forest City” because it’s surrounded by forest on all sides with over 225 square kilometres of parkland within its borders that make up about 20% of London’s total area. Most people who move to London are drawn by its thriving economy, with jobs at major companies like TD Canada Trust or Ontario Power Generation readily available. The job market is strong for those seeking employment in a variety of fields from tradespeople to computer programmers, ensuring you’ll find what you’re looking for when you move to the area. With over 20 colleges and universities to choose from, Londoners can also enjoy close proximity to some of the top schools in Ontario.
London, ON Real Estate
Additionally, the London real estate market is competitive, with many new homes coming onto the market every year. Whether you’re looking for a home in downtown London or one of its suburbs like Woodstock or Sarnia, there are plenty to choose from. The average price of a single-family dwelling ranges between $300,000 – $500,000, and homes are typically sold within a few days of listing. The real estate market in London is also very diverse, with several homes available for all budgets and lifestyles.
Whether it’s the small-town charm of the historic Old East Village neighbourhood or the cosmopolitan shopping and dining on Richmond Row, London offers something for everyone! Some of London’s top landmarks include the Covent Garden Market, Thames River, and the Museum of London. One of the best things about living in London is the variety of things to do there, from beautiful parks and green spaces, like Fanshawe Conservation Area or Springbank Park, to vibrant nightlife at venues such as Zanzibar Nightclub London or London Music Hall. Even locals who have lived in the area for 10 years are never bored.
Life in London is fast-paced and exciting. With the best of both big-city living and close-knit communities, you’ll always find something to do no matter what your interests are. The arts scene alone has a lot to offer – with world-class theatre productions at Centennial Hall or Western University’s Impulse Theatre, not to mention cool galleries and museums nearby.
London ON Transportation
The London Transit Commission offers a variety of transportation options, including buses, para-transit, and a bike-sharing program. The city also has a vast network of parking lots and garages for those who prefer to drive. Walking around London is easy, with nearly 90 kilometres of paved sidewalks and paths on which to stroll. Getting to and from London is also simple thanks to the nearby airport, London International Airport. Wherever you’re trying to go in London, it’s easy to get there.
Distance to Nearby Cities
- 80km (50 miles) to Kitchener
- 116km (72 miles) to Hamilton
- 143km (89 miles) to Brampton
- 145km (90 miles) to Mississauga
Things To Do In London, ON
London offers a variety of things to do for the whole family. From museums to parks to concerts and performances, there’s never a dull moment. Here are some top spots in London that are more than worth checking out:
- Springbank Park – Springbank Park is London’s largest park located on the Thames River. It features a dog-friendly trail, picnic tables and grills, a fishing pier, soccer fields, playgrounds for kids of all ages, volleyball nets, and more! The scenic views are perfect any time of year – take your camera to capture some memorable moments with family.
- Victoria Park – Victoria Park is the perfect place to go for a scenic walk. The park spans over two hundred acres and offers picnic tables, children’s play structures, and an outdoor skating rink in the wintertime!
- Covent Market – Covent Market is London’s oldest indoor market, boasting over 100 vendors and fresh produce! You’ll find everything from fruits to handmade crafts there.
- Storybook Gardens – Storybook Gardens is an enchanting outdoor attraction with over 100 life-size figures, including Peter Rabbit and Goldilocks and the Three Bears. The gardens also feature ponds for skating in wintertime!
- St. Peter’s Cathedral Basilica London – St. Peter’s Cathedral Basilica London is a Roman Catholic Church and the seat of the Bishop of London. It has beautiful stained-glass windows as well as an organ that ranks among Canada’s most famous!
- Budweiser Gardens – Budweiser Gardens is London’s premier sports and entertainment venue, hosting the city’s NHL team and concerts. It has been voted “Canada’s Most Popular Sports Venue” by Pollstar Magazine for five years in a row!
- Fanshawe Pioneer Village – Fanshawe Pioneer Village is a living history museum displaying the pioneer culture of Southern Ontario. Visitors can explore log cabins and watch demonstrations on how pioneers’ lives were different from ours today!
- Eldon House – Eldon House is the historic home of Stephen Leacock, a famous Canadian humorist. The house has period furnishings and original drawings by Mr. Leacock himself!
- University of Western Ontario – The University of Western Ontario is London’s largest university. It has over 40,000 students enrolled in undergraduate and graduate programs, with teaching taking place on two main campuses as well as a number of smaller regional centres.
- Labatt Brewery – The Labatt Brewery is one of London’s top attractions, offering tours and a museum. The brewery has been in operation since 1847, producing Canada’s best-selling beers: Budweiser, Kokanee and Labatt Blue!
Day Trips From London ON
London is the perfect place to start your Canadian adventure! It offers a variety of things to do and see, as well as nearby day trips. Here are a few of our favourites:
- Niagara Falls – A popular day trip destination for Londoners is Niagara Falls. It’s an easy and scenic drive from London to Canada’s natural wonder on the South Shore of Lake Ontario. You can visit the falls on foot or by taking an aerial tour with one of their many helicopter companies. Niagara Falls is home to iconic attractions like Maid of the Mist or Journey Behind The Falls, as well as more serene spots such as Scenic Lookouts along River Road. Bird lovers will love this park because it hosts over 250 species that migrate here each year. Visit Niagara Falls during the winter months for great cross-country skiing and snowshoeing opportunities!
- Toronto – The city offers an eclectic mix, so there is plenty to do here for families looking for something fun. Some popular spots in this diverse city include CN Tower, Rogers Centre (formerly known as SkyDome), Casa Loma Castle & Gardens, Royal Ontario Museum (ROM), Hockey Hall Of Fame, and ROM’s First Peoples Gallery. There are also many artsy neighbourhoods that offer jazz clubs, hipster cafes, and live music performances from world renowned musicians in every genre imaginable right around town!
- Boler Mountain – Boler Mountain is a winter destination with skiing and snowboarding in the heart of Ontario. It’s one of Canada’s top-rated ski resorts, boasting rolling hills, forests, lakes, and amazing views from every slope. The mountain has over 25 runs for beginners and experts, and alpine slides where you can zoom down the mountain! If that isn’t enough fun, there are also plenty of other activities like cross country skiing or ice skating at their outdoor rink. And don’t forget about all the après-ski hotspots serving up some tasty drinks after an afternoon outside on the slopes. This Canadian gem just might be your new favourite place!
