Located east of downtown Toronto, the Beach — or Beaches as some call it — was first settled by the Ashbridges family in 1794. Known for its four expansive beaches, the area has grown to become one of the city’s most sought-after neighbourhoods with its tree-lined streets and variety of architectural house styles from quaint Cottages to restored Edwardian estates.
Today, the Beach has retained a laid back, small-town vibe and is dotted with boutique shops, charming cafes, and local galleries along Queen Street East and Kingston Road.
We took historic photos of the Beach and its neighbours and matched them with present day photos. Take a look at the interactive sliders below to see just how much the neighbourhood has changed.