Annandale House, the Tillsonburg Museum and Pioneer Cemetery offer different ways to explore the city’s history; at Lake Lisgar, the waterpark and trails take centre stage. This means you can explore Tillsonburg based on a range of interests: learning about the city’s founding, exploring collections and historic sites, or enjoying outdoor activities. The trails vary in both length and layout.
City History at Historic Sites
Annandale House was built in the 1880s by Edwin Delevan Tillson. He was Tillsonburg’s first mayor and the son of the city’s founder, George Tillson. For visitors interested in how the city began, the connection between the city’s founding family and its first mayor is a particularly interesting point of reference.
The Tillsonburg Museum, located at the Annandale National Historic Site, houses more than 18,000 artifacts from Tillsonburg’s past. The Annandale National Historic Site also offers programs throughout the year where visitors of all ages can learn more about Tillsonburg’s history. The specific programs offered may change.
The Tillsonburg Pioneer Cemetery, one of the oldest cemeteries in the area, offers another historic point of reference. Together, these sites span the history of a house and the city’s founding to a cemetery of significance to the surrounding area.
Getting Around Downtown Tillsonburg
Downtown Tillsonburg has free parking, and its streets are easy to explore on foot. Parking regulations may change, so check them before your visit. The Station Arts Centre also provides visitor information. So, alongside opportunities to explore downtown on foot, Tillsonburg also offers a place to get visitor information.
Waterpark and Picnic Area at Lake Lisgar
Lake Lisgar Waterpark is located in Memorial Park in Tillsonburg. It features an accessible heated pool and a 186-foot Giant Twister waterslide. A large grassy area is suitable for picnics. This means you can enjoy water activities and take a break outdoors in the same place. Seasonal operations may change; check the latest information before your visit.
Two Hikes with Different Route Layouts
A 10.5 km hike leads from the northern edge of Tillsonburg across Hawkins Bridge at Lake Lisgar. The Trans Canada Trail continues along the route. The Carrol Trail is a 5.0 km loop with several bridges. The first option describes a longer hike passing named landmarks, while the second is a shorter loop with bridges. Choose based on route length and layout. Maintenance or construction work may affect access to the Trans Canada Trail; maintenance and access on the Carrol Trail may vary seasonally. Check conditions for each trail before setting out.
Discover more destinations: Burgessville, Embro, Norwich, Ingersoll, Thamesford, Woodstock, New Hamburg
Return to the regional travel overview: Oxford County.
