The neighbourhood of Casa Loma is named after the Gothic Revival style mansion, Casa Loma, referred to as Toronto’s castle. The neighbourhood is bounded on the north by St. Clair Avenue West, to the east by Spadina Road, to the west by Bathurst Street and to the south by the CP rail tracks. The ‘castle’ was built in the early 1900s for over 3.5 million dollars. At the time, it was the largest private home in Canada, but in 1924 it was handed over to the city by the debt-laden owner. In the 1920s the neighbourhood was built on the extensive grounds of the castle. The neighbourhood is still surrounded by ravines and parkland. The charming prominence of the castle led to a huge boom in the area and attracted many wealthy and affluent neighbours.

The homes in Casa Loma are highly coveted by home-buyers looking for a fashionable neighbourhood with character and special features. The large homes that grace this neighbourhood are an impressive mix of Edwardian, Tudor, Georgian and English Cottage. Pristine landscaping and tree-lined streets add to the neighbourhood’s appeal.

The area is family-friendly and includes many recreational and shopping amenities. Wrapped around Sir Winston Churchill Park is Nordheimer Ravine. This quiet oasis features a rustic wood path with many excellent picnic spots and a variety of trees, plants and wildlife, including the largest stand of oak trees in the city. There is also a children’s playground and wading pool in Wells Hill Park. The community centre operates out of Hillcrest School, which includes an indoor pool and a gymnasium.