The local farm supply store and mill in the village of Warkworth stands as a reminder of its strong agrarian roots, but this culturally charged community is now attracting attention for its thriving artisanal and artistic scene.
1. OAK HEIGHTS ART GALLERY
341 Covert Hill Road
Perched atop Covert Hill, this gallery hosts a thoughtfully curated collection of traditional and contemporary art from international and local artists. The sweeping view of the surrounding landscape is as beautiful as the art work. Viewings are by appointment only. oakheightsartgallery@gmail.com
2. VILLA CONTI OAK HEIGHTS ESTATE WINERY
337 Covert Hill Road
If you want to enjoy the view a bit longer, cross the road to Tommaso Conti and Bambina Giannitti’s 100- acre estate and winery, Villa Conti. The farm-to-table restaurant is known for an array of homemade pasta dishes artistically paired with their signature wines. Open Noon to 10 PM. Reservations are required. villaconti.co
3. WARKWORTH SHOPS
Downtown Warkworth
Warkworth’s famous specialty shops – offering everything from unique antiques, fine clothing, beeswax products, artisanal baked goods, gourmet chocolates and special gift items – make holiday shopping a breeze.
4. MAGIC UNDER THE STARS
16 Main Street
Get into the holiday spirit with Magic Under the Stars. Every Friday night in December, downtown Warkworth comes alive with festive lights, hayrides and decorated trees. Drop by… the shops stay open until 9!
5. DOUGLAS MORLOCK BLACKSMITH
82 Main Street N.
Morlock revives traditional blacksmithing techniques to craft fine metal into everything from intricate iron railings to pen knives. Learn some essential forging skills from this master and make your own “Frontier Tomahawk” axe or chef knife. morlockblacksmith.com
6. UPPER CANADA AXE THROWING
Autumn Road
What started as a fun competition among lumberjacks – of throwing their axes at a bullseye – is now a competitive sport. Refine your precision throws under the guidance of Upper Canada’s coaches, or just have fun with the family in a safe environment. uppercanadaaxe.com
7. THE BRANCH RANCH
52 Bagley Road
Owner Jessica York grows multi-hued dogwoods and curly willows on their property to create eco-structures and living domes to woven baskets and wreaths.Winter weaving workshops start in December. thebranchranch.ca
8. FOSTER FARM SANCTUARY
495 Concession Road 4 E.
Just down the road, the Foster’s farm is home to a bevy of 42 rescued animals including pot belly pigs, sheep, cats, dogs, squirrels and Walter the cow. Kevin (a veterinary technician), and partner Morgan, offer visitors a chance to interact with these lovable animals. Book a visit: fosterfarmanimalsanctuary.ca
Story by:
Micol Marotti
Illustration by:
Charles Bongers
