Overview
The Forest Hill neighbourhood is one of Toronto’s most prestigious districts. The mansions in Lower Forest Hill are rivalled only by those found in Rosedale. Forest Hill’s schools are among the best in the country. They include two of Canada’s most revered private schools: Upper Canada College for boys, and Bishop Strachan School for girls. Forest Hill is one of Toronto’s prettier districts. Its topography is very diverse with gently sloping hills, winding roads, and numerous little parkettes, all adding charm to the neighbourhood.
Homes
Forest Hill’s old building codes and bylaws, dating back to the 1920s and 1930s, required that all Forest Hill houses be designed by an architect and that a tree be planted at the front of each property. This foresight by Village planners has left a legacy of beauty in the brick and stone mansions, and majestic trees that grace the streets of Lower Forest Hill.
The Upper Village houses were built mostly in the 1940s and 1950s. These houses are more modest than their Lower Village counterparts, however, the lot sizes are comparable between the two districts.
Forest Hill also contains a fair number of luxury condominium apartment buildings, located west of Spadina on Lonsdale Road and Heath Street West.
Recreation
The BeltLine fitness and nature trail follows the route of the former Belt Line railway, which was Toronto’s first commuter train. This fourteen and one-half kilometre track passes through Forest Hill on its way down to Rosedale. The BeltLine Path is enjoyed by both nature and fitness enthusiasts.
Forest Hill’s Public Library has a myriad of programs for adults, children, and preschoolers.
Transportation
Forest Hill is conveniently located within walking distance of numerous bus routes that connect passengers to Toronto’s rapid transit subway lines.
For motorists commuting in and out of the city, the Allen Expressway is easily accessed from Eglinton Avenue West.