Top 10 Things to Do in Ancaster, Ontario

#1: Stroll Through Ancaster’s Historic Village

Wilson Street is one of the central points of Ancaster’s historic village core, filled with 19th-century architecture, like the Ancaster Old Town Hall. If you love art, check out Creations Art Gallery, enjoy some shopping along the way, and pop by for a local brew at Brewer’s Blackbird Brewery. Finally, savour a delicious lunch or dinner at Cavallo Nero, the beautifully restored Ancaster Mill, or The Coach and Lantern pub—we have a lot of great food options in every category and plenty of downtown Ancaster attractions!

#2: Hike or Bike the Bruce Trail

We’re incredibly lucky to have a little piece of Canada’s oldest and longest trails, the Bruce Trail, in our own backyard. While you’re here, head to a trail in the Dundas Valley Conservation Area with the 2.8km Main Trail or the longer, more rugged 7km Homestead Trail. 

Either way, you can find your way to many local views, like Tew’s Falls and Dundas Peak just a quick trip from The Barracks Inn. 

#3: Discover Ancaster’s Waterfalls

Speaking of waterfalls, there are plenty more beyond Dundas Conservation. 

You can find:

• Tiffany Falls. Tiffany Falls is found a relatively short and easy walk from the Tiffany Falls Conservation Area parking lot, making it relatively easily accessible for families. Enjoy a breathtaking waterfall and lush greenery—the perfect place to sit and enjoy a picnic.
• Sherman Falls. Sherman Falls is a picturesque 17-ft cascade found within the Sherman Falls Conservation Area. It’s also commonly called Fairy or Angel Falls, which captures the magic of the view well.
• Hermitage Cascade. This small, 4-ft waterfall is tucked into the Dundas Valley Conservation Area, right beside the Hermitage Gatehouse. Remember that this waterfall is weather- and seasonal-dependent, as it tends to shrink in the dry months. 

#4: Visit Fieldcote Memorial Park and Museum

If you love history and natural beauty, Fieldcote is a must-see. Enjoy award-winning perennial gardens and walking trails over seven acres of woodland, or step inside the museum to learn more about local history, early settlement, and Ancaster’s industrial past. 

In the summer season, you can even enjoy an outdoor concert underneath an incredible view of the stars near Ancaster downtown. 

#5: Play a Round at Our Local Golf Courses

For a relatively small village, we boast an inordinate amount of world-class golf courses, all set to the unique and beautiful backdrop of Ancaster scenery. 

• Albatross Indoor Golf Centre. This indoor golf simulator lets you enjoy your favorite game all year round, no matter the season.
• Knollwood Golf Club. This course was designed in 1970 by the experienced Jack Harris, one of the most respected golf course superintendents in all of Canadian history. The club features two full, 18-hole courses with a memorable layout that blends seamlessly with the natural landscape.
• Hamilton Golf & Country Club. This respected, prestigious club offers a challenging course for golfers of all skill levels and hosted the RBC Canadian Open in 2019.
• Copetown Woods Golf Club. This family-friendly course offers a view of rolling hills, mature trees and grounds, green fee packages, and golf lessons from a few seasoned pros. 

#6: Indulge in Ancaster’s Culinary Scene

Ancaster’s culinary scene is as diverse as its attractions. Here are a few local favourite restaurants in Ancaster:

• Ancaster Mill. This popular wedding and event venue is housed in an 18th-century grist mill, with a famous brunch service and delicious, farm-to-table dinner options.
• India Village. A warm and inviting space with various authentic dishes and curried delights. It’s a casual, family-friendly spot.
• The Brassie Pub. This English-style pub is the perfect space to relax for an afternoon beer or a classic fish-and-chip dinner. Enjoy the environment inside or their lush patio space.
• Cavallo Nero. A classic Italian gem that features fresh, seasonal ingredients and traditional recipes, from handmade pasta and wood-fired pizzas to grilled meats and fresh seafood.
• The Coach & Lantern. This historic pub was established 200+ years ago, but every day there better than the last. Enjoy some classic pub fare and a cozy atmosphere with plenty of brewed options on tap. 
• Tin Cup Sports Bar. Your go-to spot for great food, cold drinks, and nonstop sports action!

#7: Experience Ancaster’s Arts and Culture

If you love to take in the local arts and culture, Ancaster’s scene won’t disappoint. Head to the 

Ancaster Memorial Arts Centre and catch a live performance, from plays and musicals to concerts or comedy shows.

Head down the mountain to downtown Hamilton and check out the impressive collection of Canadian or international art at the Art Gallery of Hamilton. If you have time and a little planning, book yourself in to watch a show at Theatre Aquarius, a professional theatre company that offers a diverse season of plays and musicals.

#8: Shop for Unique Treasures

We have plenty of unique finds in Ancaster through independent boutiques, antique shops, and art galleries. Check out Kari’s of Ancaster and Hanley’s for a curated selection of women’s clothing and accessories, and seek out Canadian luxury designers at Flow by Nicole. 

Pick up some treats and local delights at Ancaster Cheese & Fine Foods, or find the perfect shower gift at The Curated Cradle. 

#9: Relax and Rejuvenate at a Local Spa

If you’d rather take a slower pace and pamper yourself, try The Spa on Wilson, with Spa Packages including the Relax and Rejuvenate and the chock-full Spa Experience. 

The Spa at Ancaster offers body treatments, massage, and medical esthetic treatments, while the Esthetic Retreat Beauty Spa & Nails offer a relaxed nail or spa service experience where you never feel rushed. 

#10. Enjoy Ancaster Farmer’s Market

Our Farmer’s Market is a tradition of culture and community within the Ancaster Village. With a heritage steeped in farming and agriculture, the Ancaster Farmers Market is a place for us to enjoy locally grown products right in the heart of the Ancaster BIA. 

The Farmer’s Market is held every Wednesday from 3-7 pm from June to October in the Ancaster Memorial Arts Center, where many Ancaster events are held. 

The Barracks Inn—Boutique Inn in Ancaster, Ontario

No matter your interest, Ancaster has a little something to offer everyone. We hope you consider coming to experience our little village’s natural beauty, culture, and rich history. 

To finish off your trip, consider a stay at The Barracks Inn, a luxurious boutique hotel in the heart of Ancaster. Our historic inn offers elegant accommodations, modern amenities, and a convenient location for exploring everything Ancaster. 

Book your stay today and start building your shortlist of things to do in Ancaster this weekend!