Guelph Bike Tour

We went on a historical cycling tour of Guelph!

In the spirit of ‘being a tourist in your own town’ (although I dislike the word tourist) we hopped on our bicycles and rode around downtown Guelph yesterday following our local guide. Since moving to Guelph in 2003, I have been remiss in learning about it’s history and how there came to be a city here.

The physically distanced group of couples at the back of the Basilica of our Lady Immaculate, Guelph, Ontario.

John Galt is the founder of Guelph. Apart from basic understanding that John Galt Day is celebrated in early August, I have never made time to learn about how interesting the history of the city is.

We weaved our way from John Galt Park, adjacent to the River Run Centre, through the downtown area and concluded our tour 2 hours later at the covered bridge on York Street. I learned about the most photographed train in Canada parked near the Chamber of Commerce building, opposite the bus terminal, and about it’s fateful and deadly full speed head on collision with another train. One site that was new to me was a church that is home to the Guelph Black Heritage Society on Essex Street. It was interesting to hear our guide speak of how Guelph grew out from the centre of where the first tree was felled, and where over the years various entrepreneurs set up businesses and commerce.

One thing I particular enjoyed was how our guide encouraged us to use this bicycle tour as ‘hooks in our brain’ inspiring us to do some research of our own. Many stops along our tour made me want to learn more about the people, places and businesses that existed there over the years. Questions in my mind came and went about what the city looked like, who walked the streets and how impressive some of the architecture was when people first laid eyes on the construction.

Starting off the tour at John Galt Park, beside the River Run Centre, Guelph, Ontario.

In Europe and Asia we have made a point to participate in many walking tours in bustling cities. My favourite city walking tours have been in Barcelona and Singapore. However, in Guelph, the fact we were on our bikes and not walking, added a different speed and pace to our evening, covering more ground, but also adding an exercise component.

Whether you live in Guelph, a small town or a large city, there is always an opportunity to learn more about where you call home. Why not start today by doing a basic search online about some of the key moments in history from your hometown. Seek out any local tours that are offered and visit any civic or local museums. In a time where international travel is limited, it is fun to experience a familiar place with fresh new eyes.