The Beaches, and The Boardwalk in particular, were once my favorite jogging spots when I worked Downtown. Every time I passed by Kew Williams Cottage, I couldn’t help but stop and admire this old house.

The green cone shaped shingle roof, the circular verandah, the use of different shades of grey and brown stones, along with luscious gardening around it easily make it the most recognizable house in the neighborhood.

YouTube Video of Kew Williams House Plaque Reading (Source, Heritage Toronto)

While many Queen Anne houses are built of brick or wood, the Kew Williams Cottage (also known as the Garderner’s Cottage), stands out for its stone construction, using materials gathered from around Lake Ontario.

Built in 1902, as a house for the head gardener at Kew Garden, this house has that breezy, relaxing vibe that defines “The Beaches” neighborhood.

Named after Kew Garden in London, England, the Canadian Kew Garden used to be a huge park with manicured local and exotic plants, walking trails and cafes.

As Toronto, and “The Beaches” area grew, Kew Garden shrunk, and most of the park was redeveloped, except for Kew Williams Cottage.

30 Lee Avenue