Out & About
We’re big fans of this sweet town in Northumberland County. Here are a few of our favourite haunts. Be sure to come hungry and get ready for plenty of fun experiences to be had.
GRAB A BITE
The El Gastropub
Here’s the Coles Notes version of the restaurant’s story: Greg and Amanda da Silva moved to the area looking for that “small-town life.” They opened the El to give locals and visitors an immersive experience — they have an eclectic menu and offer a comfy place to lounge and relax with friends old and new. Allow us to recommend the Brussel Sprouts (fried and served with house-made chive aioli, bacon, Parmesan, red onion and crispy jalapeños) to share. You’re welcome.
74 King St. West,
theelcobourg.com
DRINK LOCAL
William Street Beer Co.
Feel like a pint? (We hear you.) William Street Beer Co. offers Northumberland residents and beyond the most delicious brews, including its Cliff Top Pale Ale (an ode to West Coast North American pale ales) and Farmstand Lager (a homegrown version of a Munich Lager that makes for a refreshing beer). You can order online and if you’re in Northumberland County, you’re eligible for free beer delivery to your door. (Now that’s a deal.)
williamstreetbeer.com
INDULGE AND RELAX
Northumberland
Heights Wellness
Retreat & Spa
If you’re looking for a getaway but don’t want to venture too far from home, Northumberland Heights is calling. This place is all about awakening your senses and allows you to feel truly rejuvenated — you’ll leave feeling fully rested, pampered and happy. Do a little yoga, hike one of the trails, experience the Caviar Indulgence facial, take a cooking class or just bask in the glory of the rolling Northumberland Hills.
795 Northumberland
Heights Rd.,
northumberlandheights.com
STAY HEALTHY
Market & Smor
Cobourg’s downtown fresh market is the brainchild of two folks who were visiting town and noticed there was nowhere to buy fresh produce in the downtown area. Today, this community hub is buzzing with customers, and it’s all about providing locals with healthy fare. Not only do they have an incredible selection of veggies, fruit and herbs, they also have an incomparable fresh-to-go section, too.
39 King Street East
themarketsmor.com
EAT FOR DAYS
Cucina Urbana
Mike and Teresa owned a restaurant in St. Martin, but they lost it during Hurricane Irma. That’s when they chose to move back home to Ontario, and we’re glad they chose Cobourg. Their kitchen and wine bar caters to folks who just want a really good Italian meal. They serve the classics (think arancini and chicken parmigiana), but we have it on good authority that their pizzas are next level (the Angry Bee, with spicy capocollo, fontina cheese, chili flakes and honey is tops).
165 Division St., #201, cucinaurbana.ca
TREAT YOURSELF
Café Happenstance
Café Happenstance is absolutely where you want to go if you’re craving a good cuppa and something sweet. It has two sister locations in nearby Port Hope that serve fresh baked pastries (we’re talking scones, muffins, cinnamon rolls, etc.) and breads daily. The java and tea offerings are to die for — order the Spice Route Latte (with wildflower-creamed cinnamon) or the Lemon Ginger Tea Latte.
203 Third St.,
thisishappenstance.com
BUY SOMETHING OLD
Little Underground
This store is all about awesome vintage and retro finds. There’s a plethora of men’s (leisure jackets galore) and women’s apparel (peter-pan collars, anyone?), graphic tees and accessories among many other cool pieces. (There are also sections dedicated to crystals and tarot, plus little oddities you didn’t know you needed. You’ll have to visit to see what we mean.)
11 King St. East,
little-underground.
myshopify.com
HIT THE BEACH
Cobourg Beach
This is surely one of the most beautiful parts of Lake Ontario. Word has it you forget you’re in Ontario when you walk the boardwalk, listen to the waves and feel the pristine white sand. It’s safe and clean and perfect for a swim or sit on the shore and take in your surroundings. (We suggest a mindful walk — shoes off for the ultimate beach experience.)
138 Division Street
cobourg.ca
STAY OVER
Victoria Park Campground
This coveted campsite is what you get when you pair unobstructed views of Lake Ontario and tree canopy near a pretty park and sandy beach. Bring the kids and hang out at the splash pad or rent bikes and explore the town. We like nothing more than plunking down in a comfy chair and getting lost in a good book.
138 Division Street
cobourg.ca/campground
Connect with Spark
Twitter: @spark_centre
Instagram: @spark_centre
LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/company/spark-centre
sparkcentre.org
