Ancaster is a town with deep roots. Dating back to 1793, it’s one of the oldest towns in the province and was once the largest industrial centre in Canada. Its wealth is still visible today with gorgeous historical architecture and a small, but dynamic, downtown.
EAT
Casual
Sammy’s Family Restaurant
Run by a family for families, this local favourite serves up tasty fare like classic eggs Benedict for adults and bear-face pancakes for the kids. The regulars love the unique shredded home fries. The kitchen's open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
The Brassie Pub
If you're craving a classic English pub experience, check out this favourite local haunt for some traditional pub and refreshing pints. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly.
The Olive Board
This casually sophisticated wine bar pairs great wine with amazing charcuterie – perfect for savouring and sharing.
Coach and Lantern
There are many British pubs around but this one feels more authentic than most. It’s housed in a 200-year-old stone building some believe is haunted. Expect pub grub done well – chicken wings, beef dip sandwiches, meat pies and curries.
Brewers Blackbird Kitchen & Brewery
Blackbird Brewers offers a one of a kind experience with its location inside a stone house dating back to the 1830s right in the heart of historic downtown Ancaster. Think upscale bar menu items such as crispy eggplant or brisket nachos (with a jackfruit vegetarian substitute!) in addition to their own ales and lagers.
Fine dining
Ancaster Mill
Special occasions call for an elegant backdrop – and it doesn’t get much better than dining beside a waterfall. Ancaster Mill is an iconic Hamilton fine dining institution housed in an old stone flour mill. With an earth-to-table ethos and seasonally inspired dishes, the menu is exceptional as the views.
Cavallo Nero
Italian classics get a modern makeover with local, seasonal ingredients in an elegant, but laidback, setting. Think chicken parmesan, pappardelle Bolognese and stone-baked pizzas. To mix it up, there's a smattering of other favourites, like shrimp tacos and burgers.
Coffee shops and treats
Caniche French Bakery
Its fresh, flaky croissants and pain au chocolat sell out quickly, so go before noon. Crusty baguettes will satisfy the cravings of those who long for the authentic baked goods of Europe.
Purple Pony
Scoops of premium ice cream flow steadily from this of this cute shop. Decisions are difficult, thanks to a selection of more than 30 flavours. Little ones will demand repeat visits so they can ride on its collection of purple ponies.
Chocolate Sensations
Hand-crafted premium chocolates and a huge assortment of bars, truffles, coated pretzels and dipped fruit makes this a must-visit for chocoholics. Beautiful gift baskets and shipping options mean this sweet spot is also gift-giving gold.
Global
Indian Village
Many area Indian cuisine lovers can vouch for the authenticity of this popular spot. The draw is carefully prepared cuisine, made with freshly ground spices. Winning dishes include a perfectly spiced chicken tikka masala and lamb-based saag gosht. (There’s a second location in Dundas.)
SEE AND DO
Carluke Orchards
It’s all about apples – 13 different varieties grown on-site and available at its retail outlet. Pick your own when they’re in season or take home an apple pie from the bakery. There’s also muffins (sour cream streusel!), cookies and meals to go.
Fieldcote Memorial Park & Museum
With Ancaster’s rich history, it makes sense to showcase it. The small museum celebrates the past with rotating art and history exhibits. Enjoy the lovely gardens or sign up for a hands-on workshop for grownups.
Golfing
For those looking to hit the links, Ancaster has several public, accessible courses offering private club style amenities, including Mystic Golf Club an 18-hole challenging course and Copetown Woods with a sprawling Victorian style clubhouse.
Tiffany Falls
The flow of this tall cascading waterfall changes throughout the year according to the amount of rain. Regardless, it’s always beautiful. It’s a short ten minute walk from your car to get there. Hikers can venture further and hook up with the Bruce Trails or other marked paths.
Heritage Walking Tour
Ancaster’s history stretches back centuries so there’s a lot of historic architecture to soak up. The Ancaster BIA has pulled together a great walking tour featuring some of the ‘village’s’ most interesting heritage buildings.
Griffin House
This small 19th century home has a big history. Built in 1827, it was purchased by Enerals Griffin, a Black immigrant from Virginia who settled here in 1834. The National Historic Site tells the story of this unique Black settler experience in the area.
SHOP
Black & Smith Country General Store
Surround yourself with the charm of country life in the small hamlet of Jerseyville’s original general store from the 1800s. Now reimagined as a modern country store – the store and gallery is full of thoughtfully hand-made goods including beautiful ceramics, stationary and artful crafts from talented makers from across the country. Attached is a pottery studio and furniture workshop.
Ancaster Cheese & Fine Foods
Cheese, please! You’ll find shelves full of gourmet goodies, along with a showcase of Canadian and international cheeses. You’re in luck if you’re looking for hard-to-find types like black lemon gouda or truffled-infused brie. It also sells vegan varieties.
Hanleys
Fashion-conscious locals stay stylish with high quality goods at this store located in a unique heritage 1860s heritage building. Expect to see clothing and accessories, including shoes and handbags, from big names like Max Mara, Rag & Bone, Eileen Fisher and Smythe.
For more information, visit the Ancaster Village website.
Michele Sponagle is a prolific journalist born and raised in Hamilton. Her work has appeared in top media outlets across Canada. Follow her on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Michele’s blog takes a fresh look at some Hamilton classics, from iconic eateries to the quirky stories behind its most beloved and well-known attractions.