The Glebe is one of Ottawa’s most beloved and historic neighbourhoods, known for its charming character, walkability, and vibrant community spirit. Located just south of downtown along the Rideau Canal, The Glebe blends small-town atmosphere with urban convenience, making it a highly desirable place to live, shop, and explore. It offers so much in way of community, beauty, history and amenities. So much actually that we have to split it into sections. So…here is our highlight of The Glebe North!
Key Features:
Historic Charm: Established in the late 19th century, The Glebe is home to beautiful heritage houses, tree-lined streets, and a rich architectural mix, including Victorian and early 20th-century homes.
Lifestyle & Culture: Bank Street, the main commercial strip, is filled with boutique shops, cozy cafés, independent restaurants, and artisan bakeries. It’s a hub for local shopping and dining.
Green Spaces: The neighbourhood borders Lansdowne Park, a revitalized area that includes sports facilities (home to the Ottawa Redblacks and 67’s), public event space, restaurants, and a year-round farmers’ market.
Outdoor Living: Proximity to the Rideau Canal offers scenic walking, cycling, and in winter, access to the world’s largest skating rink.
Community-Focused: Residents enjoy a strong sense of community, with events like the annual Great Glebe Garage Sale drawing crowds from across the city.
Education & Family-Friendly: The area is popular with families due to its excellent schools, active community associations, and proximity to parks and recreational facilities.
We feel that the area of The Glebe to the north side of Fifth and maybe even creeping across the 417 to Centretown is what we like to call The Glebe North.
It offers great proximity to commute routes like the 417 and Bank Street while still providing the sense that you are in a community unto itself with mature trees, architecturally stunning historical buildings and amazing amenities.
A favourite area of ours is Central Park, a quiet park tucked away near Lyon and Rosebery with picturesque gardens offering a quiet place for children to play or to walk your dogs!
Our Favourite Glebe North Amenities
Restaurants:
- Cantina Gia
- Wild Oat Bakery Cafe & Farm
- The Senate Tavern (an Ottawa classic)
- Wilf & Ada’s (the best brunch spot!)
- Ten Toes Coffee House
- Drip House
- Little Victories Coffee Roasters
Retail:
Recreation:
- Central Park
- Patterson Creek & Park – just adjacent to the Rideau Canal
- The Bunker – Ottawa’s indoor golf experience!
- The Rideau Canal
Everyday Necessities:
- Loblaws Isabella Street
- LCBO
- Metro
- Shoppers Drugmart
- Medical and dental
- Fitness centres, yoga and pilates
So really while The Glebe in its entirety is a wonderful place to live, there are special spots within the different areas that you may consider when choosing which streets you like the most. We feel The Glebe North has a good mix of easy access to commute routes if you work downtown at The Hill, or in Tunney’s Pasture or further via the Queensway. It also offers the green spaces and quiet, mature streets for which The Glebe is so loved.
Thinking of a move to The Glebe? We have a lovely spot currently listed that has been completely renovated both aesthetically and structurally. 53 Rosebery Avenue retains the charm and character its age should have but with the peace of mind that comes with knowing everything is solid and secure – there is literally NOTHING to be done here. Move in and enjoy the park right across the street, or one of the many restaurants within minutes walking distance.
What is your favourite spot in The Glebe? Let us know in the comments!
