Toronto is a city of many parks and green spaces. In fact, thanks to our bountiful tree canopy – even downtown – Toronto was ranked 5th in a study of the greenest cities in the world! (MIT, Treepedia).
While the larger, more well-known parks – such as High Park, Trinity Bellwoods or Riverdale Park – get a lot of (well-deserved!) attention, there are many other green spaces in the neighbourhoods of Toronto that are definitely gems worth exploring! In the west-end neighbourhood of Swansea, one of these noteworthy green spaces is Rennie Park.
Located north of The Queensway between Windermere and Ellis Avenue, Rennie Park is tucked away on the residential streets of Swansea. Although by proximity it’s sometimes overshadowed by the popularity and expanse of High Park to the east, it is well-loved and treasured by neighbourhood residents of all ages. The park is more than just green space; with over nine hectares, it features four lit tennis courts, a shuffleboard, an artificial ice rink, a gazebo, two picnic areas, a wading pool and a children’s playground. It is also conveniently located to the Swansea Community Recreational Centre and Pool that has been servicing the Swansea community for over 25 years. Sounds like a pretty perfect for family outings, doesn’t it?
If you’ve been following Urbaneer’s monthly blog series, Animal House, you know that our friend Monika’s spirited pup Logan (pictured below!) loves a fun day at the park, so who’s better to bring along than the pro himself? After assessing such Toronto parks as Baird Park and the Kay Gardner Beltline Trail, Logan knows exactly what it takes to make the list! For all the dog lovers out there, it should be noted that Rennie Park does not offer a leash-free dog area. The dog park was closed in 2013 after some conflicting issues expressed by the area residents. Although your four-legged friend cannot run free, don’t let that stop you from exploring this lovely green pocket of the neighbourhood with your furry companion.
On a weekday afternoon, the park is filled with recreation lovers, nature enthusiasts, and couples enjoying peaceful walks. The height of summer sees children cooling off in the wading pool while parents watch and catch up with each other, and dog owner’s strolling with their dogs in tow enjoying the afternoon sun. Tennis anyone? Home of the Swansea Tennis Club, Rennie Park offers four outdoor lighted courts – you don’t have to be a Rogers Cup calibre player to enjoy yourself. It’s a great way to have fun and make new friends!
Want an ‘off the beaten path’ experience? The park also boasts a small natural forest with hiking paths. You don’t have to drive out of the city to enjoy a scenic and invigorating adventure. The trail is easy enough to bring the kids along, but with enough hills and valleys to enjoy a good workout. As I walked among the thick foliage, birds chirping overhead, it was hard to believe that I was still in the city! This is why this park exemplifies the city’s slogan “A City Within A Park.”
The residents of Swansea are lucky to have expansive parks like High Park and Sunnyside Park by the lake within walking and biking distance, but Rennie Park is so well-loved because its right in the Swansea ‘hood and has become the heart of their community; it brings residents together and its maintenance and care create a communal sense of pride!
How would you like to live just a short stroll from this kind of natural amenity? The new owners of this fab property won’t have to imagine any longer! Fresh to market on September 9th, A Townhouse With Roof Terrace On The Queensway is a four-level, 2-bedroom 2-bath, family-friendly residence NOW SOLD!
Can the personable engaging and service successful Urbaneer team become the realtors of choice for you or someone you love? We’d be delighted to guide you in securing the best of the best Toronto real estate.
With a multi-disciplinary education in housing – and 28 years of experience in the property market – Steve and his team believe the search for a Home requires engagement on sensory, intellectual and emotional levels. In fact, it’s how we’ve become top producing realtors.
Thanks for reading!
-The Urbaneer Team
Steven Fudge, Sales Representative
& The Innovative Urbaneer Team
Bosley Real Estate Ltd., Brokerage – (416) 322-800
– we’re here to earn your trust, then your business –
Celebrating Twenty-Eight Years As A Top-Producing Toronto Realtor
*Did you know we were recently listed as one of The Top 25 Toronto Real Estate Agents To Follow On Twitter! – The Top 50 Blogs On Toronto – and The Top 100 Real Estate Blogs In Canada? Consider signing up in the box below to receive our FREE monthly e-newsletter on housing, culture and design including our love for unique urban homes and other Toronto real estate!
*Love Canadian Housing? Check out Steve’s University Student Mentorship site called Houseporn.ca which focuses on architecture, landscape, design, products and real estate in Canada.