Every corner of our beautiful city has a story to share. In Wortley Village, the streets are lined with trees, tales and treats.
Spend a day exploring one of London, Ontario’s most charming neighbourhoods: Wortley Village! As you discover its historic properties, gourmet restaurants and boutique shops, you’ll leave wanting to tell everyone your own story.
Wondering what to bring? We recommend comfortable shoes (for walking and dancing!) as well as a reusable mug and shopping bags. Wortley Village embraces sustainability and small businesses.
Start Your Day: Sidetrack cafe
Start the morning right at Sidetrack: A Wortley Café! They've been bringing café classics and quirky creations to the Wortley Village neighbourhood for years. They're known especially for their “walk-by” window service, which is a favourite of parents, pet owners, pedestrians and cyclists on the go.
Sit back and relax on the patio as you soak in the ambience and get ready for a day of exploring. Just across the street, the recently reopened Black Walnut Bakery Cafe is another popular stop for coffee and sweet treats.
Morning: Westland Gallery
Take in the vibrant arts and culture scene in Wortley Village. Co-owned by Al & Karen Stewart, Westland Gallery showcases emerging and established artists with a rigorous group and solo exhibition schedule that changes every three weeks. Give the gallery a browse and see for yourself why Westland Gallery has earned a reputation as a haven for London's cultural diversity.
Lunch: Plant Matter Kitchen
Plant Matter Kitchen prides themselves on being 100% plant-based, vegan, organic, ethical, delicious and London local. The majority of their plant-based ingredients are sourced from local farmers and producers, including Marshall's Pasta, Patrick's Beans, and Green Goddess Guelph vegan “cheese.” They also offer beverages on tap from local breweries, including beer from Anderson Craft Ales and kombucha from Booch. Try their Creamy Mac & Cheese for a vegan take on the classic dish!
Early Afternoon: London Bicycle Tours
It's time to get moving, so why not hop on a fully adjustable bike and explore the city from a fresh perspective with London Bicycle Tours? On their Wortley Village tour, you'll glide your way through charming streets, hidden laneways and peaceful park paths. Stop at a hidden dam, admire the historic architecture and watch for the hidden gargoyle. With an expert guide at the lead, you'll enjoy an ideal mix of activity, sightseeing and relaxation.
Late Afternoon: Explore On Foot
Later in the afternoon, explore the Old South neighbourhood on foot. As you walk through Wortley Village, you'll come across impressive parks, cultural events, retail shops and historic buildings.
According to NeighbourGood London, most homes in the area date back to the turn of the 20th century. These buildings are often marked with city-certified Heritage Designation Plaques, Heritage Sites Committee Plaques or Original Homeowners Plaques to designate properties of historic significance.
One such heritage gem is the London Normal School, a former teacher’s college located at 165 Elmwood Ave and now home to a YMCA branch.
Alongside the Normal School is “The Green” a spacious park in the heart of the Village. A number of well-attended community events take place here, including Wortley Pride, Gathering on the Green, Indigenous Solidarity Day and the Wortley Village Jazz & Blues Festival.
In addition to relaxing green spaces and fascinating architecture, Wortley Village is home to many unique, local shops. Boutiques such as Impressions of Wortley Village and Curiosities will have you decked out in the latest women’s fashions and are great venues to pick up one-of-a-kind mementos. Other notable retailers in the area include Grooves Records, Karpos Dry Nuts and Fruits, A Village Tail and many more!
Dinnertime: Sagi of Wortley
When you're good and hungry, settle in for dinner at Sagi of Wortley! Nestled in the heart of Wortley Village, this Asian fusion restaurant is inspired by bold, bright flavours and their extensive wine menu pairs perfectly. Their popular patio often hosts live local musicians, soundtracking your meal with the rhythms of jazz, blues, R&B and folk.
Other popular spots for dinner include the trendy Rebel Layne, another culinary venture by London's Wolfe brothers, or the cozy Sweet Onion Bistro, known for their live music offerings.
Evening Entertainment: Wortley Roadhouse
For twenty-six years, the Wortley Roadhouse has been known by locals for its energetic nightlife. Featuring live entertainment and music on Friday and Saturday nights, as well as their popular Sunday matinees (October to May), the Wortley Roadhouse is a guaranteed good time! Come prepared to shake it on the dance floor or tune in to one of their many HD screens for the big game.
Stay the Night: Idlewyld Inn & Spa
Although the Idlewyld Inn & Spa isn’t located in Wortley Village proper, you only have to head a couple of blocks east to rest your head after an exciting day. Originally built in 1878 as the personal home for London’s then mayor, Charles Hyman, the Idlewyld boasts unique furnishings with many original details throughout.
As one of London’s historic boutique hotels, their 21 individually renovated and designed rooms mix the services needed for the modern traveler with the elegance of a bygone era. Amenities include complimentary breakfast, high speed internet access, free parking and more. It's the perfect way to unwind after a busy day discovering Old South.
How will you spend your day in Wortley Village? Tag @TourismLondon and #ExploreLdnOnt to share your adventures with us!
