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Summary

This dreamy hidden gem near Toronto feels like a tiny Scottish village with autumn charm

No plane ticket needed.

A person with a dog standing by a river. Right: A town during the fall.

A community in Ontario.

@canadian.aussie.winnie | Instagram, @brandontaylor23 | Instagram
Lead Writer, Travel

You don't need to hop on a plane to enjoy a little taste of Scotland this autumn season.

This enchanting hidden gem is just a road trip away from Toronto, and with its stone buildings and old-world charm, you'll forget you're in Ontario.

Galt is a quaint community located in Cambridge, about an hour and a half from Toronto. Located along the Grand River, the area offers a little slice of the U.K. right here in Ontario.

The area was established in 1816 by William Dickson, a Scottish lawyer and merchant from the Niagara region.

It was named after John Galt, the Scottish novelist and colonizer who founded the Canada Company, and, according to the Canadian Encyclopedia, was a "centre of Scottish settlement in Upper Canada."

During the fall, the leaves along the Grand River transform with fiery orange hues, adding a touch of magic to the old-world scenery.

You can stroll along the water, soaking up the foliage, wandering across some of the footbridges, and enjoying the historic architecture.

Don't miss Mill Race Park, where you'll find enchanting views, the ruins of the old mill, river scenery, and golden leaves.

There are several cozy cafes where you can grab a specialty drink to enjoy during your stroll, such as Monigram Coffee Roasters and Grand Café.

Autumn is the perfect time to visit a market, and the Cambridge Farmers' Market runs every Saturday year-round.

Galt is home to several attractions and landmarks, including The Old Post Office, Hamilton Family Theatre, and Cambridge Centre for the Arts.

There are some cozy autumn farms located in the surrounding area where you can enjoy the season to the fullest.

Snyder's Farm offers pumpkin picking, a corn maze, and festive treats.

If you're looking for a dreamy fall day trip near Toronto, this beautiful hidden gem might be worth keeping on your radar.

Downtown Cambridge BIA Website

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.

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    • Madeline Forsyth

      Lead Writer

      Madeline Forsyth is a Toronto-based Lead Writer for Narcity Media. After earning her B.A. (Hons) at Queen's University, she spent a year travelling much of the world as a flight attendant. Now, she uses her experience in the travel industry and passion for writing to share stories about buzzworthy events and adventures across Canada and the globe. Madeline has been published in PopSugar and has interviewed sports and entertainment personalities for Narcity. She has covered and photographed restaurant openings as well as event launches such as the world premiere of the Dr. Seuss Experience. Some of her favourite things to write about include charming small towns and anything to do with Harry Potter.

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