Leslieville is well on its way to becoming an “IT” neighbourhood as gentrification takes hold and previous stigmas vanish. The revitalization of the stretch along Queen St. East ushered in a new era for this neighbourhood and buyers are taking note. Leslieville homes which previously needed TLC are now being lovingly restored by new homeowners, which in turn have increased real estate values.Leslieville is part of South Riverdale and its boundaries stretch from Gerrard and CN rail to the north, Empire Ave to the West, Eastern Avenue to the south and Coxwell avenue to the East.
History
Beginning as a small village in the 1850’s, Leslieville was named after George Leslie who owned the then popular Toronto Nurseries in the village. Back then, most of its residents were gardeners or employed in the brick making factories. The departure of the light industry and factories in Leslieville began to change the landscape of the community and is now attracting more middle class residents. Creative types are also attracted to Leslieville as this neighbourhood is close to large Film Studios like Cinevillage and Showline Studios. Leslieville Public school was one of the first buildings in the community and its principal, Alexander Muir, is famously known for composing “The Maple Leaf Forever” after a maple leaf fell onto his jacket. The tree which inspired this song is still standing at the intersection of Laing Street and Memory Lane and is a landmark for the community.
Homes
Homes in Leslieville are typically two-and-a-half and three-story Victorian semis and rowhouses, classic semi’s, small bungalows and detached Victorian houses. Some sought after streets include Curzon Street, Bertmount and Coady Avenues. Leslieville's older houses along Queen Street, and south to Eastern Avenue were built in the late 1800's while the second generation of houses located north of Queens St was built in the 1900’s. Leslieville real estate values have shown steady growth in recent years regardless of tough economic times proving just how resilient this neighbourhood is.
Shopping
A big part of Leslieville’s transformation happened as a result of the revival of its commercial district along Queen St. E. Stylish, cool, hip can all be used to describe the boutiques, restaurants and home furnishing shops which have emerged in this trendy pocket. The area on Gerrard Street East between Greenwood Avenue and Coxwell Avenue is known as Little India which serves Toronto’s East Indian community. Here you will find over 100 shops which are representative of a variety of South Asian communities.
Recreation
Greenwood Park located in Leslieville boasts three baseball diamonds, an artificial ice rink, a pool, and a playground. South of Queen St, Jonathan Ashbridge Park features two tennis courts, a children's playground, and a wading pool. The S.H Armstrong Community Recreation Centre on Woodfield Road is another popular spot for recreational activities. Numerous programs for the old and young alike are also available at the Gerrard/Ashdale Public Library.
Transportation
Most Leslieville residents navigate the city using the bus and streetcar routes along Carlaw, Jones, Greenwood, Coxwell, and Eastern Avenues, as well as Queen and Gerrard Streets. Many of these routes bring commuters to stations along the Bloor-Danforth subway line.
Motorists can get downtown via Lake Shore Boulevard, the Gardiner Expressway and the Don Valley Parkway.
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Learn more about Leslieville’s neighbouring communities by clicking the links below:
