Living in Beaverbrook, Kanata: Ottawa’s First Suburban Gem with Modern Appeal

Living in Beaverbrook, Kanata: Ottawa’s First Suburban Gem with Modern Appeal: Ever thought you could live in a neighbourhood that has history, green space, and a unique suburban vibe—all in one place? Welcome to Beaverbrook in Kanata, Ottawa’s very first planned community that combines the best of family-friendly design and urban convenience.

Today, we’re taking a closer look at Beaverbrook in Kanata. This neighbourhood has a unique place in Ottawa’s history as one of the city’s first planned suburbs, and it’s packed with charm, green spaces, and all the amenities you could need. Let’s dive in to see what makes Beaverbrook a one-of-a-kind place to live.

History and Location

Beaverbrook, located in the heart of Kanata, was one of the earliest suburban neighbourhoods developed in Ottawa. Built in the 1960s, it was designed by Bill Teron, known as the “Father of Kanata.” Teron’s vision was to create a residential haven with green spaces, parks, and community facilities integrated right into the neighbourhood. Today, Beaverbrook maintains that well-planned, community-focused design.

Located west of Ottawa’s downtown, Beaverbrook is bordered by the Kanata North Tech Park, a hub for Ottawa’s high-tech industry, making it ideal for professionals. The neighbourhood is easily accessible via the 417 and March Road, providing a short commute into downtown Ottawa and the rest of Kanata.

Education

Beaverbrook is known for its exceptional schools, making it a top choice for families who value education. Here are some of the area’s most respected options:

Earl of March Secondary School is one of Ottawa’s top high schools. It offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses and excels in science, technology, and the arts. Students also enjoy extracurriculars like sports, drama, and robotics.

Roland Michener Public School serves Kindergarten to Grade 6. It’s known for strong academics, an inclusive environment, and both English and French immersion programs.

Stephen Leacock Public School serves Kindergarten through Grade 8. It promotes academic success, creativity, and inclusion. Students can join clubs like chess, music, and environmental groups.

Georges Vanier Catholic School is a nurturing Catholic elementary school for Kindergarten to Grade 6. It offers English and French immersion and focuses on values like compassion and respect alongside academics.

W. Erskine Johnston Public School provides a bilingual education with strong STEM programming. Known for academic strength and high parent involvement, it’s a top pick for families seeking French immersion.

École Élémentaire Catholique Saint-Rémi, in nearby Kanata Lakes, offers a full French-language Catholic curriculum. It has a strong sense of community and encourages cultural engagement.

With this range of excellent schools, Beaverbrook supports both academic and personal growth, making it a smart choice for families in Ottawa’s west end.

Parks and Recreation

One of Beaverbrook’s standout features is its many parks and recreational facilities, which were central to the neighbourhood’s original design.

Beaverbrook Park sits at the heart of the community. It includes tennis courts, baseball diamonds, a playground, and open spaces for outdoor fun. The park also hosts events throughout the year, such as family days and local sports tournaments.

John G. Mlacak Community Centre offers a gym, skating rink, and meeting rooms for local groups. It’s a hub for community events, fitness programs, and workshops for all ages.

The Kanata Golf and Country Club is a scenic course set in Kanata Lakes. Its unique layout winds through the residential area, giving nearby homes beautiful views of the greens and fairways. This setting creates a peaceful, upscale feel and adds value to the surrounding real estate.

However, the future of the golf course is uncertain. ClubLink, its current owner, has proposed turning parts of it into housing. This plan has sparked concern among residents, who worry about losing green space and affecting property values. The debate highlights larger issues around growth, conservation, and how to balance development with community needs.

Beaverbrook’s parks and trails continue to make it a great place for outdoor lovers and families. The neighbourhood promotes an active lifestyle and a strong sense of community.

Amenities and Shopping

Beaverbrook provides easy access to shopping and dining, with several options just minutes away:

• Kanata Centrum Shopping Centre is nearby and offers everything from big-box stores like Walmart and Chapters to restaurants, cafes, and a movie theatre. This is a go-to spot for residents looking to shop, dine, or catch the latest movie release.
• Hazeldean Mall offers even more shopping variety, with grocery stores, pharmacies, and specialty shops that meet all household needs. The mall also has a few dining options, making it a convenient stop for errands or a casual meal.
• For dining out, locals enjoy Central Bierhaus in Kanata Centrum, known for its German-inspired pub fare and craft beer selection, and La Maison du Kouign-Amann, a cozy French bakery offering delicious pastries and coffee—perfect for a weekend treat.

Whether you’re running errands or grabbing a bite with friends, these options add convenience and variety to life in Beaverbrook.

Transportation

Getting around from Beaverbrook is simple, with easy access to major roadways and public transit. OC Transpo’s Terry Fox Station connects Beaverbrook residents to rapid transit routes, making commutes downtown quick and convenient. The area is also served by multiple bus routes that run along March Road and other main streets.

For those who prefer to drive, Highway 417 is only minutes away, offering a direct route to downtown Ottawa or out to the west end. And with Kanata North’s high-tech sector nearby, many professionals enjoy the convenience of a short, local commute. But keep in mind rush hour traffic back into Kanata van be challenging especially if the Ottawa Senators are playing that night adding to the capacity issue on Highway 417.

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities are well within reach for Beaverbrook residents:

• Queensway Carleton Hospital is located nearby, providing a full range of medical services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialized clinics.
• Appletree Medical Centre on March Road is convenient for family medicine, walk-in services, and other primary care needs, offering flexible options for families.
• Multiple pharmacies, including Shoppers Drug Mart, are located in Kanata Centrum and Hazeldean Mall, providing quick access to prescriptions and general healthcare products.

These healthcare facilities ensure that residents have access to high-quality medical services within a short distance of home.

Real Estate

Beaverbrook’s real estate is characterized by a mix of mid-century homes, townhouses, and modern developments. Homes in this area are often known for their unique, contemporary architectural designs, including split-levels and large bungalows, many of which are set on spacious, tree-lined lots.

The neighbourhood offers something for everyone. Families may be drawn to the larger single-family homes with yards, while young professionals and downsizers might appreciate the townhouses and condo options. Over the years, Beaverbrook has seen rising property values due to its proximity to Kanata’s tech sector and its established, family-friendly community, making it an attractive choice for homebuyers.

With its variety of housing types and styles, Beaverbrook provides an option for every type of buyer while maintaining its close-knit, residential charm.

So, if you’re looking for a neighbourhood with green spaces, unique architectural charm, and a vibrant community atmosphere, Beaverbrook in Kanata could be the perfect place for you. With excellent schools, great parks, and easy access to shopping and transit, Beaverbrook combines the best of suburban living with everything you need close to home.

And if you are thinking of relocating to Ottawa feel free to reach out to us. Give us a call – shoot us a text – send us an email – or even wrap it in a bow and send it first class because we got your back when moving to Ottawa or anywhere across Canada.

You can learn more about the city of Ottawa by visiting its official website: https://ottawa.ca/en.

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