|
London Travel Guide >>
Cananda Travel Guide
This region of south-central Ontario (midway between
Toronto and Windsor) took great joy in modeling itself
after England: London has its own Thames River, and
nearby Stratford (namesake of Shakespeare's hometown of
Stratford-upon-Avon) has its own internationally
acclaimed theater festival and its own Avon River.
Originally an agricultural community, several of the
attractions in London focus on local history: Fanshawe
Pioneer Village is a re-creation of a town from the
1800s that presents crafts demonstrations. Iroquoian
life around the year AD 1000 is the focus of the
Ska-Nah-Doht Iroquoian Village. Eldon House, built in
1834, is the city's oldest building, and you can also
visit many fine Victorian residences in town. You'll
also find an abundance of outdoor markets and just a few
minutes outside the city, you'll see why it's still
considered agriculturally based.
Museums include the London Regional Art and Historical
Museum (frequently changing art exhibits); the London
Museum of Archaeology (located next to an ongoing dig
site called the Lawson Prehistoric Indian Village); and
the Royal Canadian Regiment Museum (military
memorabilia). And don't forget the Guy Lombardo Museum,
where the famous bandleader's old acquaintances are
remembered in photographs and other memorabilia.
Stratford (35 mi/55 km northwest of London) is famous
for the Stratford Festival, one of the best
Shakespearean performance series anywhere. Each season
(April to November), several of the bard's works are
performed in Stratford's three theaters, and they're
supplemented by non-Shakespearean plays that range from
Greek tragedies to contemporary dramas. In addition to
the performances themselves, you can tour the festival's
costume shops and backstage areas, attend discussions
with actors in some of the plays, see live concert
recitals and listen to readings by famous authors.
While in town, take time to enjoy the tranquil park that
stretches alongside the Avon River—picnicking before the
show is a Stratford tradition. Stratford boasts a
surprising assortment of upscale dining options; many
establishments offer a picnic option as well. Take a
ride on a double-decker bus or a paddleboat cruise along
the Thames.
|
