Belhaven, York

Belhaven, a historic hamlet within Georgina, Ontario, boasts a rich past as a bustling stagecoach stop during the 1800s. Situated near Lake Simcoe, it was popular with merchants and vacationers. The community earned its initial name, Plug Mount, from a well-dressed local wearing a distinctive Plug hat, often welcoming travellers at the Belhaven Hotel and tavern. By the 1860s, the name was formally changed to Belhaven.

At present, Belhaven stretches from Ravenshoe Road in the south to Baseline Road in the north. It remains a peaceful community, distinguished by its low population density—the lowest in Georgina. Housing in Belhaven includes historic farmhouses and ranch-style bungalows on large lots, preserving the hamlet’s rustic charm and offering sweeping views of the natural surroundings.

Belhaven has a notably safe environment, with crime rates 40% lower than the national average. Violent crimes are also significantly lower, with rates 38% below the national average. Residents of Belhaven face a 1 in 40 chance of becoming victims of any crime. While detailed year-over-year crime statistics for Georgina as a whole are not available, Belhaven's consistently low crime rates make it an attractive and reassuring place for families and individuals seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle.

Belhaven is a rural community with a touch of cultural diversity. 1.76% of the population are Latin Americans, 0.46% are Black, and 0.08% are Southeast Asian. Meanwhile, English is the most commonly spoken language in the region.

Belhaven enjoys a strong economic profile, with the median household income 24% higher than the national average. The community benefits from a notably low unemployment rate, which is 61% lower than the national average, showcasing a stable job market. Income distribution varies, with 5.2% of residents earning $20,000 or less, while 10.9% of the population earns between $80,000 and $100,000. Overall, Belhaven's income landscape reflects a prosperous and economically stable community.

Bellhaven is one of the other neighbourhoods located near the lake Simcoe. Here are some of the neighbourhoods nearby:

• Baldwin
• Keswick North
• Keswick South
• Historic Lakeshore Communities
• Sutton- Jacksons Point

Schools

Belhaven is surrounded by several schools that provide quality education in the region of Georgina. Here are the names of the renowned schools in and near the neighbourhood:

• Sutton Public School
• Sutton District High School
• Deer Park Public School
• Lakeside Public School
• Fairwood Public School

Restaurants

There are not many restaurants in the neighbourhood, but residents can drive to nearby neighbourhoods to spend quality time with their families and friends. Some nearby restaurants are:

• Alfredo’s Ristorante
• Baileys  Homestead Restaurant
• Pinky’s Diner
• Anchor Family Restaurant
• The Mansion House Historic Restaurant

Shopping Malls

Residents of Belhaven can find several shopping malls within a 5-10-minute drive from the locality. Some of them are:

• Georgina Mall
• Yorkwood Village Centre
• Glenwoods Centre

Hospitals

Belhaven, a community within Georgina, Ontario, is served by several healthcare facilities providing medical services to residents. Here are the primary hospitals and healthcare centres in the area:

• Southlake Regional Health Centre
• Georgina Nurse Practitioner-Led Clinic
• Keswick Medical Clinic
• Rexall Pharmacy and Clinic
• Cedarvale Lodge Retirement and Care Community

Lake Simcoe

Located just a short distance from Belhaven, Lake Simcoe is renowned for its clear waters and recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming or simply relax along its scenic shores. The lake's proximity makes it a favoured spot for locals and tourists seeking a peaceful retreat.

Georgina Pioneer Village & Archives

This historic site offers a glimpse into 19th-century life with its collection of preserved buildings and artefacts. Visitors can explore structures like a one-room schoolhouse, general store, and blacksmith shop, giving an immersive experience of the area's rich heritage.

Sibbald Point Provincial Park

Situated on the southern shore of Lake Simcoe, this park features sandy beaches, hiking trails, and camping facilities. It's an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts who want to participate in activities like swimming, picnicking, or exploring the Eildon Hall Museum, showcasing the Sibbald family's history.

Bird Watching at Local Nature Reserves

Belhaven’s countryside provides a serene environment for bird watching, making it a popular activity for nature enthusiasts. The area is home to a variety of bird species, allowing bird watchers to spot unique wildlife in their natural habitat. With its rolling hills and open spaces, Belhaven offers a quiet, peaceful setting that’s perfect for early morning or late afternoon birding excursions.

Cycling Through the Countryside

Cycling in Belhaven offers a scenic escape through its long, winding concession roads. With rolling hills and picturesque farmland, riders are treated to beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere. This activity is perfect for both casual cyclists and those looking for a more invigorating ride with routes that showcase the best of rural Ontario’s landscape.

Photography Tours

Belhaven’s rustic charm provides a perfect backdrop for photography. From historic Ontario farmhouses and weathered barns to vast, open countryside views, the hamlet offers numerous picturesque settings. Photographers can capture the unique blend of nature and rural life, with changing seasons adding diverse colours and textures to each shot.

Belhaven, located within Georgina, offers convenient access to major routes, making commuting to nearby urban centres more convenient. Here are some of the popular places nearby:

• The Willow Beach Conservation Area is just 6.7 km away.
• Golf enthusiasts can access the Lyndhurst Golf Course, which is around 9.4 km away.
• The Keswick Christian Church is only 2.5 km away from the locality.
• Educational institutions like Sutton Public School and Lakeside Public School are just a 7- to 8-minute drive from the locality.
• The Toronto Pearson International Airport is 81.4 km away from the neighbourhood and can be reached in 50 minutes by car.

Georgina Farmers' Market

Located in nearby Sutton, this market operates seasonally from May to October. It features over 40 vendors offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local crafts. Visitors can enjoy live music, children's activities, and a variety of food options, making it a vibrant community gathering spot.

Pefferlaw Farmers' Market

Situated in the Pefferlaw Community Hall parking lot, this market runs on Saturdays during the summer months. It showcases local farmers and artisans, providing fresh fruits, vegetables, baked goods, and handmade crafts, fostering a strong sense of community and support for local producers.

Keswick Farmers' Market

Held at the Georgina Ice Palace parking lot, this market operates on Sundays from June to October. It offers a variety of local produce, meats, cheeses, and artisanal products, creating a family-friendly atmosphere with live entertainment and special events throughout the season.

Hike the Local Trails

Explore the scenic trails around Belhaven, which are ideal for family hikes with children and leashed pets. The gentle terrain and picturesque countryside provide a perfect setting for outdoor adventures, allowing families to enjoy nature together.

Visit Local Parks

Nearby parks, such as the Georgina Pioneer Village & Archives, offer open spaces for picnics and playtime. While pets may need to be leashed, these parks provide a safe environment for children to play and families to relax.

Attend Community Events

Participate in local events like farmers' markets or festivals in Georgina, which often welcome families and their pets. These gatherings provide opportunities to engage with the community, enjoy local produce, and experience the area's culture together.

The cost of living in Belhaven is relatively affordable compared to other areas. It is 12% lower than the average for Georgina and 2% lower than the national average. Housing in Belhaven is particularly economical, being 28% lower than the national average. While the general sales tax in Ontario is 33% higher than the national average, the state income tax is notably 40% lower, balancing overall expenses.

The real estate housing market in Belhaven, Georgina, offers a range of options catering to both buyers and renters. Property sale prices range from $2.38 million to $8.20 million, reflecting the value of spacious lots and rural homes with unique charm. Rental prices vary between $4,000 and $5,000 per month, appealing to those seeking a peaceful countryside lifestyle. The market reflects Belhaven’s blend of high-value homes and affordable rural living, making it attractive for families and investors.