This wealthy, west end neighbourhood was named for James Baby, a prominent government official, who settled here in 1816. His heirs lived on this peninsula of land until 1910, when the government acquired it with plans to build a military fortress and army barracks. But they changed their mind and sold Baby Point to Robert Home Smith, who began developing the subdivision — then known as Lambton Mills — in 1912. Stone gates at Jane Street and Baby Point Road mark the entrance to this exclusive enclave overlooking the Humber River.
Vibe
Baby Point is an established area with traditional sensibilities. Whether it’s cycling or jogging, there’s no excuse not to do some exercise, while surrounded by picturesque, winding streets; hilly terrain; and the rambling ravine. Oh, and longtime residents will have you know the neighbourhood is pronounced “Bobby Point.”
Cost
The average price of housing in Baby Point — largely made up of detached dwellings with private driveways and lovely gardens — is about $1.5 million.
• The three-storey duplex at 50 Baby Point Cres. has five bedrooms. The price: $1.799 million.
• Completed by Core Architects in September, the contemporary house at 56 Harshaw Ave. is an environmentally responsible design featuring rare European beechwood trees. It’s priced at $1.598 million.
• At 38 Methuen Ave. is a custom-built stone-and-stucco home listed at $1.639 million.
Scene
The Humber River flows along the Etienne Brulé Park — Baby Point’s highlight — just below the historic Old Mill Inn and Spa. Across the street from the park is the Old Mill Tennis Club. If you would prefer some privacy, there’s also the exclusive Baby Point Club, which features two tennis courts, in addition to lawn bowling and a log cabin clubhouse. When the weather gets cold, retreat to the Humber Theatre.
Grub
Baby Point’s restaurant scene has been burgeoning over the last two years. Mad Mexican is the Toronto salsa company’s restaurant-cum-retail store. Serendipity, an organic café and bistro, specializes in superfoods like buckwheat crepes. Queen Margherita, an authentic Neapolitan pizzeria, draws nightly crowds of posh families. And Campo, a charming neighbourhood trattoria, serves old-school dishes like pan-seared branzino in Fish Camp’s former space.
Shops
Baby Point residents can turn to the eclectic mix of stores at Annette Street and Jane Street — or walk to the Bloor West Village shopping district.
Walkability
Homes in this area rank in the “medium” range in walkability. Expect to take a bus or car to get to many of the shops and schools nearby.
Schools
This area is home to a few schools such as Humbercrest Public School and Saint James Separate School.
Commute
Motorists can easily access Lake Shore Boulevard and Gardiner Expressway via the South Kingsway. Plus, Jane, the closest subway station, is 15-minutes away from the gates, while Old Mill station is a short stroll from the park.
