Don Valley Brick Works
The natural environment and old buildings all set into a valley make Don Valley Brickworks a fascinating place to explore
Don Valley Brickworks is a former quarry and brick plant turned into parkland situated in the Don River Valley. The natural environment and old buildings all set into a valley make this a fascinating place to explore and to photograph.
History
The site of Don Valley Brickworks was once a source of high quality clay ideal for producing top quality bricks. Beginning in 1889 a quarry was developed to obtain clay, shale, sand and water to produce the bricks. A plant and kilns were set up adjacent to the quarry to produce bricks which where used in the construction of many of Toronto's landmark buildings including the Massey Hall and Casa Loma. At its peak the company was producing 114,000 bricks every day.
Eventually the clay, shale and sand were used up. In 1994 reclamation of the site began. The quarry was filled and landscaped. Three ponds along with a meadow and forest were created in the space formerly occupied by the quarry. Wildflowers, shrubs and native trees were planted around the ponds. In 1997 the reclaimed site was opened to the public. Since that time many species of wildlife have inhabited the site including fish that have entered into the ponds from the Don River.
A non-profit organization called Evergreen Brick Works has taken over responsibility for the old buildings on the site, converting them into a cultural and educational centre. They offer a variety of programs and events throughout the year.
Nature
Step outside and immerse yourself in the lush greenery that surrounds Evergreen Brick Works. Situated in the picturesque Don Valley, this urban oasis offers a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Stroll through the scenic trails, meander alongside the tranquil ponds, or simply relax amidst the native flora and fauna. It's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Activities
From educational workshops to recreational programs, there's no shortage of activities to enjoy at Evergreen Brick Works. Engage in hands-on experiences like gardening workshops, sustainable living seminars, or even culinary classes featuring locally sourced ingredients. Be sure to check out the farmers market held on Saturdays. With activities suitable for all ages and interests, there's always something new to discover.
During winter visitors can enjoy a lovely skating rink that is open to the public for free skating.
Art and Culture
Art enthusiasts will delight in the vibrant cultural scene at Evergreen Brick Works. The site regularly hosts art exhibitions, installations, and live performances, showcasing the talents of local and international artists alike. Marvel at thought-provoking sculptures, immerse yourself in interactive installations, or simply soak in the creative energy that permeates the space. It's a feast for the senses and a celebration of Toronto's diverse artistic community.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: NoDon Valley Brick Works Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Address: 550 Bayview Ave, Toronto, ON M4W 3X8, Canada
Phone: (416) 596-7670
Official Website: Don Valley Brick Works
Don Valley Brick Works Reviews
Rated out of 5
Came here to celebrate and anniversary, and adored this place. Brickworks has so much going on; the staff, shops and food are lovely. There were a lot of plants, flowers, bulbs, and seeds for sale which I'm looking forward to getting more of soon! Missed the weekend market but hope to catch another one. Beautiful scenic walking trails. It felt clean and safe here, we'd love to come back. Used the public shuttle, finding the pick up point was a little tough from the station but we got pointed in the right direction. It looked like there was some parking on site as well. Pleasant trip over and back. We went earlier in October during the maze, mums, and pumpkin time when some of the leaves had started changing but it wasn't too cold yet. Really enjoyed taking photographs here, would like to see it in the different seasons. Definitely recommended by our family!
Heather A - 3 months ago
It’s a lovely corner in downtown Toronto with local shops, food tents, lovely hiking trail, bike trail, little pond with ducks and geese, and overall a lot of greenery. It is pretty beginner friendly has patches for advanced hikers too.
The local shops here have some really cool, albeit a little expensive items for home. We got some fridge magnets, honey, ground coffee and also some hot chocolate and food from different shops!
I visited here in Fall, definitely planning to visit again in the Summer for a picnic with friends and family!
Prachi Shailendra - a month ago
Enjoyed my visit. Plenty of walking trails
Took a detour off the main trails. There were some challenging climbs and descents. Was supposed to do the free Nature tour but the tour guide did not show up. Did the historical tour instead which was nice. The volunteer tour guide was quite knowledgeable. Would visit again. Take note that parking is $10. Easier to download the app and pay there.
Kemi Chima - 3 months ago
My happy place in Toronto. ❤️ Beautiful walking trails. Great for on leash dogs. Great coffee shop, garden center, and gift shop. Love how they’ve kept the graffiti on the brick walls. Love the living mural of Toronto’s water ways. Green escape in the city. They do great work for urban sustainability. Hard to explain how much I love it!
Dianna English - 3 months ago
Gorgeous park, I love the free tours of the kilns and the nature reserve/reclamation area! I’ve been twice since moving to Toronto and have loved it both times. It’s great to pack a little picnic and have a hike in the city, or to buy a little snack from the cafe!
Sam Newton - 5 months ago
Directions
| TTC Subway Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Bloor-Danforth | Broadview | 0 Minutes |
| Yonge-University-Spadina | St. Clair Station | 30 Minutes |
How to get to Don Valley Brick Works by TTC Subway
Your best option is from Broadview Stationwhere you can catch the free Evergreen Brickworks Shuttle Bus at Erindale Ave, east of Broadview Ave (just north of Broadview subway station). It runs daily every 30 minutes or so. Schedules are available on the Evergreen Brickworks website linked to near the bottom of the article.
From St. Clair Station take the #88 South Leaside bus south to Bayview Avenue at Moore. Continue walking south along Bayview Avenue 2.2 km to the Don Valley Brickworks which is on the right side of the road. Note on Saturdays only during the summer from 7:30 am to 3:00 pm you can take the 28A To Brickworks via Bayview from Davisville Station and no walking is required.
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Accommodations near Don Valley Brick Works:
Photo Gallery
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Meandering paths an ponds provide a pleasant place to stroll cc licensed photo by John Vetterli -
Photo Credit: vlitvinov - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: vlitvinov - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: vlitvinov - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: vlitvinov - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: vlitvinov - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: vlitvinov - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: vlitvinov - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: vlitvinov - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: vlitvinov - cc license via Flickr
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