The Summerhill neighbourhood is named after ‘Summer Hill’ house, a magnificent Regency cottage built in 1842, by transportation baron Charles Thompson. Summer Hill stood on the crest of the hill on what is now a pretty residential street known as Summerhill Gardens
Summerhill is a preferred neighbourhood by many residents in Toronto. The tree-lined streets and an abundance of parkland make it a perfect neighbourhood for raising a family. Its luxury appeal has drawn many who are looking to settle into a safe neighbourhood in an ideal location within close proximity to the downtown core. Summerhill is located along Yonge Street, between Bloor and St. Clair streets.
The large character homes of Summerhill are semi-detached and detached Victorian and Edwardian homes, built between 1880 and 1915. Many of these gorgeous homes have undergone extensive interior renovations. There are also a handful of modern townhomes and low-rise luxury condos in the neighbourhood. Driveways in the area are at a premium, and many of the residents park on the streets. Permit parking is available for a nominal annual fee.
There are several public and private schools to choose from in the area, including Rosedale Junior public School, Branksome Hall, which is a private all-girls school, and The York School. It’s a beautiful area of the city, perfect for aspiring families.
The Rosehill Reservoir Park is located east of Yonge Street, with access from Summerhill Gardens. The lower portion of this park features a foot path that is used by walkers, joggers, and cyclists. The north-east corner of this path leads to the David A. Balfour Park, a nature trail that winds through the Vale of Avoca Ravine. The upper portion of the Rosehill Reservoir Park includes a children’s playground, a wading pool, a waterfall, and reflecting pools.
Lionel Conacher Park, situated between Birch Ave. & Cottingham St., is a memorial to Lionel Conacher who grew up in the Summerhill neighbourhood, played on two Toronto Maple Leaf Stanley Cup teams. He also competed at the highest level in a dozen other sports and served in the Ontario Legislature, as well as the House of Commons.
The Summerhill subway station on the Yonge-University-Spadina subway line is within walking distance of every home in this neighbourhood. Located along the Yonge Street corridor, Summerhill provides motorists with easy access to the downtown core and to major highways
