Unique Places To Stay And Things To Do In London Ontario & Middlesex County

There are some places we visit often, yet don’t actually explore. London Ontario was one such destination for me until my most recent trip. Growing up in Kitchener-Waterloo, we frequently drove to London for high school and Western University parties, but that was (sadly) the extent of my experience there. And Middlesex County? I didn’t even know it existed. But that, my friends, is the beauty of travel and being open to exploring places we know little about — they often surprise us in the best of ways. Which is exactly what happened…

This trip to Ontario’s Southwest was my first post-lockdown. It reminded me of how beautiful the region is (I now understand why London is called the Forest City), how passionate the small business owners are (Middlesex County is home to some incredible humans) and how many unique and under-the-radar gems are sprinkled throughout this part of Ontario. A recipe for a memorable trip if you ask me! Below you’ll find all the stops on our 4-day itinerary. I hope it inspires you to visit the region.

Unique Places To Stay In London & Middlesex County

If you’re like me, accommodations are the first thing you book when planning a trip. I always gravitate towards luxury properties OR ones that have a unique story. Lucky for us, this region offers both — from sleeping in a wagon on a ranch or onsite at a goat yoga Airbnb to a luxury boutique and spa! Intrigued? Read on…

Texas Longhorn Ranch (Middlesex County)

Book this now. Thank me later. I can’t even begin to describe how special a stay at Texas Longhorn Ranch really is. We arrived expecting a myriad of clichés and left feeling incredibly fortunate that we had a chance to experience one of the most authentic properties we’ve ever stayed at. And this comes from a girl who was fully immersed in cowboy culture in Montana and Wyoming! Fred and Gail are the real deal and run a working ranch fuelled by passion. Lucky for us, they love sharing their property with others…

Here you get a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to stay in a covered wagon (glamping at its best with electricity, a covered porch and state-of-the-art fire pit), but the experience goes far beyond. It’s about slowing down, being surrounded by nature and having meaningful conversations (Gail and Fred tell the best stories –the kind you only read in novels).

I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the attention to detail at this property. They’ve literally thought of everything — from luxe pool towels (yes, there is a ginormous pool) and camp fire service to the cutest coffee hut where you can grab complimentary coffee and snacks. Much like a luxury hotel, they anticipate your every need and provide exceptional service. Head here for a romantic escape sans kids (it’s an adults-only property), with a group of girlfriends or for a solo escape. The beautiful hosts, accommodations and horses are all you’ll need.

Idlewyld Inn & Spa (London)

Built in 1878 as a private mansion for a successful businessman (and Mayor of London), this inn is filled with talking points. If you love historic properties, you NEED to stay here. It boasts many of the original Victorian features! Think: ornate fireplaces, detailed woodwork, shuttered windows and Lincrusta-Walton wallpaper (this was my favourite detail). It’s a dream.

Beyond its character, you can expect all the comforts of a luxury boutique hotel: spacious rooms, comfortable beds, modern washrooms, onsite spa and elegant dining options. It’s the kind of property you’ll want to spend a few nights at and thanks to Tourism London’s Stay A Little Longer Program, you’ll have an extra incentive to do so! Yup, you’ll basically get paid $100 if you book a consecutive 2-night stay here or at other participating hotels (just make sure to book before Nov 30th).

Unique Things To Do In London & Middlesex County

Boy were we surprised when we saw the range of activities offered in this region! From hot air balloon rides and goat yoga to farm visits and one of the most authentic dining experiences I’ve ever had. Trust me, you’ll want to visit all of these spots…

Laughing Goat Yoga Studio (Middlesex County)

Yup, you read right. Goat yoga. It’s a thing. And not only can you take a class here or book a fabulous event on the beautiful property, but you can actually STAY surrounded by goats at Laughing Goat Lane.

The hostess, Susan, is unbelievably sweet with an inspiring life story, the goats are friendly (May was my favourite) and the unique farm stay will leave you with forever memories.

100 Kellogg Lane (London)

If you can only do one thing when you’re in London, let it be a visit to 100 Kellogg Lane. Originally a Kellogg’s Canada factory, the building has been transformed into Canada’s largest entertainment complex (a million square feet to be exact). Boasting the largest indoor ropes course in the world, outdoor market, Canada’s largest VR facility, escape rooms, multi-sport simulators, distillery, brewery, mini golf, restaurants, shops etc. it is guaranteed to blow you away. Trust me, you won’t want to leave. And soon you won’t have to because it will be home to Canada’s first Hard Rock Hotel!

Ride The Bine (London and Middlesex County)

Craft beverage tour? Sign me up! Ride the Bine came highly recommended by my friends and I’m happy to report that it did not disappoint. These guys are all about showcasing the best of local beer, wine, cider, and spirits. I love that their tours are curated by local guides and include exclusive experiences. We had a chance to taste mead and cider at Heeman’s, make our own craft cocktails at Paradigm Spirits Co. and sip on local beer at Forked River Brewing Co. while on their London Mixer tour!

Hot Air Balloon Ride With Sundance Balloons (London)

Up up and awaaaay. I would’ve never guessed that my first flight post-lockdown was going to be on a hot air balloon, but I’m so happy it was! In my opinion, there’s nothing quite like an aerial tour to give you a sense of place. It’s the perfect way to get some perspective and truly appreciate the landscape. I quickly discovered why London is called the Forest City…

I’ve been on several hot air balloon rides around the globe, but never had a pilot like Luka at Sundance Balloons. I could tell he had experience beyond his years and felt incredibly safe in his hands…or basket LOL. He gave us a beautiful sunrise tour of London and his landing skills were insane (we barely felt it)!

Nigerian Supper Club (London)

If you travel for unique culinary experiences, put Yaya’s Kitchen on your list. Your palate will be transported to Northern Nigeria and the Sahel region via ingredients while your eyes feast on modern and elevated presentations. This isn’t a restaurant. It’s an education. You’ll learn about the food, the culture and get a glimpse inside the lives of two remarkable humans (their life story alone deserves a documentary). Maryam and Malvin will welcome you as if you’ve entered their home and will take you on an unparalleled culinary journey.

Our 7-course meal introduced me to Sinasir (rice pancake), Zobo (sorrel drink), Fonio (West African grain), Baobab fruit and so many authentic flavours I’ll never forget. Ruuuuun for this once-in-a-lifetime experience. You will not regret it.

Other Things To Eat/Do In London & Middlesex County

Covent Garden Market (London)

Established in 1845, Covent Garden Market is open 6 days a week and is filled with gems. We were really surprised by the authentic international eats we tasted. I wasn’t expecting to get legit French pastries, Thai treats and to visit a German-owned tea shop that’s been in the biz for over 30 years! We also loved their outdoor market and came home as proud owners of live edge charcuterie boards from Eric’s Wood Bin.

You’ll want to spend a few hours perusing the market and cap things off at Waldo’s on King. This restaurant is much-loved by locals and has a lovely little patio where we enjoyed a leisurely dinner before heading home for the night.

Scenic Walk At The Mill Pond (Middlesex County)

The Mill Pond in Dorchester is a great spot to stretch your legs and get some fresh air. On our walk we spotted many fisherman and locals relaxing on the benches that dot the 3.3 km nature trail. Make sure to pop by Clever Crow Design for up-cycled vintage home decor and grab an ice cream cone at The Frozen Cow after your stroll!

Local Restaurants (London and Middlesex County)

When in Middlesex County, I suggest dining at Fat Olive (authentic Italian), Dorchester Golf and Country Club (beaut patio views) and Clock Tower Bistro (a menu driven by locally-sourced ingredients) .

As for London, we barely scratched the surface of the food scene, but loved dining at Craft Farmacy, Yaya’s Kitchen and Happiness Café (do NOT leave without trying their donuts) .

Local Shopping (London and Middlesex County)

If you’re looking for unique gifts, Lemongrass Refillery Company, Handmaker Boutique and Rusted Tailgate should be on your list when visiting Middlesex County. We came home with bags of goodies from Rusted Tailgate and can’t wait to return! Our favourite spots to shop in London included Covent Garden Market, Filthy Rebena Vintage and the market at 100 Kellogg Lane.

Local Coffee Shops (London and Middlesex County)

You guys know I’m allllll about coffee culture so we had to make a few stops on our trip. We loved Muggs Coffeebar and Clay Room in Middlesex County and highly recommend a visit to Black Walnut Bakery Café, Reset Social Café and The Early Bird when in London.

Cocktails and Nightlife (London)

We got a teeny tiny glimpse into the nightlife scene in London, but we loved what we saw! A visit to Hunter & Co., Craft Farmacy and Paradigm Spirits Co. for cocktails is a must. And you can’t really visit London without a trip to Barney’s — this was, in fact, the only part of London I remembered from the good ol’ days!

A huge thanks to Ontario’s Southwest, Tourism London and Visit Middlesex County for organizing this trip and sponsoring this post. I hope the stops listed above inspire you to explore this beautiful region soon!