You can compare the riverside towns of Fergus and Elora in Wellington County, Canada, to the hill stations of Khandala and Lonavala in the state of Maharashtra, India. They are spoken of in one breath, and their proximity makes exploring them together possible. So, after visiting Elora with time on hand, we decided to explore the neighbouring town of Fergus, known for its artisanal shops, historical stone buildings and picturesque Grand River and natural surroundings. Read on to know about the things to do in Fergus, Ontario.
Willington County Museum and Archives
Located between Elora and Fergus is the Wellington County Museum and Archives- a National Historic Site. It was built in 1877 as a home for the destitute and poor. We almost zipped past it since we had put Fergus on Google Maps and missed seeing it. However, after exploring Fergus, we decided to make a U-turn and pass by the Wellington County Museum and Archives. The museum was closed as it was late in the evening, so we simply drove past, admiring the magnificent stone building and its landscaped gardens.
Founders of Fergus
Our first stop in Fergus is near the Templin Gardens. A signage of Fergus stands against a verdant green background. Close by is a signpost providing details of the founders of Fergus. A Scottish lawyer, Adam Fergusson, came looking for settlement opportunities in Canada in 1831. He loved it and visited it the following year with another Scottish man, James Webster. The duo purchased large acres of land, and soon, they laid the foundation for a township. It is after Fergusson that the town gets its name, Fergus. Close by, we see a sculpture of a man holding a pile of books. It is entitled ‘Knowledge and Wisdom’ and is part of the Elora Sculpture project.
Fergus Signage and Knowledge and Wisdom Sculpture
Scottish Festival and Highland Games
Because of its Scottish connection, Fegus hosts the annual Scottish Festival and Highland Games. The town hosts this festival in August and attracts thousands of tourists. Music, dancing, athletics and events showcasing Scottish history and culture are the highlights.
Grand River and Beatty Bros Foundry turned Marketplace
We walk further and see the Grand River flowing with the Beatty Bros Foundry turned Fergus Marketplace on the opposite bank. Yes, it’s the same Grand River we saw in Elora. While in Elora, you will notice its strength, especially near the Tooth of Time near ‘The Mills’ hotel; here, the river cascades gently, which is why it was called ‘Little Falls’ in the past.
Templin Gardens of Fergus
We next stroll through the Templin Gardens on the river edge. Limestone arches, pathways and viewpoints make this garden a haven for nature lovers. We see a statue of a beaver in a corner, and a black bench with Fergus engraved. A mother and child spend time together as my husband and I walk amidst the lush green foliage, soaking in the sights. Being close to nature has a calming and rejuvenating effect on the mind and body. The Templin Gardens are the jewel in the crown of Fergus.
Beaver Statue and Grand River from Templin Gardens
St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church
We then head to an uphill road lined by trees on either side that leads us to St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church. The limestone church has a green spire and is adorned with stained glass windows.
Kissing Stane
Near the church in a park, we see a large stone called ‘Kissing Stane’. ‘Stane’ means ‘stone’ in Scottish. Legend had it that if you sit on the stone and kiss, then ‘luck will be forever with you!’ We notice a metal installation depicting a couple holding a heart and several locks. On numerous international trips, we have seen these love locks on bridges and fences, symbolizing unbreakable love.
Kissing Stane and Love Locks Art Installation
St Andrew Street
We then head to St Andrew Street in downtown Fergus, which has several artisanal shops, heritage buildings, and landmarks. We pass the Melvine United Church and the Fergus Post Office, both of which are made of limestone. Next is the Grand Theatre, where you can watch a drama or listen to a musical performance. The Wellington County Library’s Fergus branch is a great place to spend time if you’re a book lover. We pass some artisanal shops. The James Russel and Sons Commercial Building houses ‘I Love Chocolate’ for connoisseurs of chocolate.
Melvine United Church and the Post Office
Heritage Buildings, Library and Grand Theatre
Final Word
Our trip to Fergus has come to an end. Fergus is undoubtedly overshadowed by its more illustrious sibling, Elora, but this quaint little town has its unique charm and character. The fact that it is just a one-and-a-half-hour drive from Toronto makes it a perfect getaway from the city’s hustle and bustle. Fergus, with its Scottish vibe, natural surroundings and quaint atmosphere, will impress you. (You can read the Elora travelogue here)
GETTING THERE
Nearest Airport to Fergus:
Pearson Airport in Toronto is the nearest airport with connectivity to major cities in Canada, the US, and other international destinations. From Toronto, you can drive to Fergus. Distances: Toronto to Elora: 107 km or 1 hour 27 minutes. Elora- Fergus: 5.8 km or 7 minutes.
Where to stay in Fergus:
You can do a net search for hotels depending on your budget and comfort. We did not stay in Fergus; instead, we took a day trip from Toronto.
Fergus Travel Tip:
Elora and Fergus are considered sister towns and can be explored together.