The Bedford Park neighbourhood has some serious roots extending back to its time as a hamlet used by farmers as a stopover on the way to the big city to the south. Back then, life centred on the intersection of Yonge and Lawrence, where the Bedford Park Hotel once stood. And although the hotel is long gone, the stretch of Yonge north of Lawrence has long stood as the centre of community life. With large-scale development on the way, this intersection is poised to once again usher in change.

Vibe
The area has long been held in high regard by upwardly mobile families looking for their “forever homes.” What many people are drawn to is the rare combination of small-town charm and urban sophistication that seems to exist in some of the older neighbourhoods of the city. Here, neighbours still say howdy to each other, kids fight for their right to play hockey on the streets and — for Mom and Dad — fine restaurants and shopping are a stone’s throw away.

Cost
Bedford Park is surrounded by some of the most exclusive, upscale neighbourhoods in the city, such as Lawrence Park and Hogg’s Hollow. But homes in this neighbourhood are still listed under $2 million. Once potential homeowners come to grips with that price tag, the ’hood still seems to have some growth potential in comparison to surrounding areas. There is growth afoot in the area. Change is coming, and with it, an investment opportunity.

Grub
The main street of Yonge north of Lawrence Avenue acts as Bedford’s main street. Here, many restaurants of the local landmark variety offer up some fine fare. One of the best is Coppi Ristorante, famous for its fine Italian food as well as its pursuit of the elusive white truffle. The Abbot is a popular watering hole with a great beer list, which also serves up gastro-pub fare. And there’s also a Burger’s Priest that was been thoroughly embraced by locals.

Shops
As a haven for families, the Yonge and Lawrence area has more than its fair share of kids’ and maternity stores, such as the upscale Seven for women and Kidville. Paradise Comics is one of the finest spots in the city for those with a penchant for the “pows” and “socks” of comic culture. And there is not just one but two fine men’s shops in Coop and Ermanno Clothing.

Walkability
Bedford Park is a centrally located neighbourhood with a slew of retail shopping and parks and schools a short distance away. The streets are tree-lined and safe, though getting busier by the day.

Commute
The Lawrence subway station on the Yonge line offers locals the luxury of a quick traffic-free commute downtown. But Bedford Park is also close to Highway 401 for those working outside the city. And there are also two major arterial roads in Yonge and Avenue.

Schools
One of the main reasons families choose Bedford Park is the schools. John Wanless Public School and Bedford Park Public School both exude community spirit and date back a century or more. For high school, Lawrence Park Collegiate Institute is one of the highest ranked schools in the city. For private schools, nearby Havergal College is a historic and highly regarded all-girls academy at Lawrence and Avenue.