An adorable small Ontario town gives a taste of Scotland

You don’t have to hop on a plane to experience a piece of Scotland — just take a trip to Fergus, Ontario.

Known for its deep Scottish roots, Fergus is a charming town located in Centre Wellington, approximately an hour and a half’s drive west of Toronto.

Sitting along the Grand River, it’s full of picturesque streets, adorable cafes, pubs, and restaurants, and a cozy, small-town feel that’ll make you want to slow down and stay a while.

Here’s how to make the most of a trip to this “wee” town.

What to do

One of the best things to do in Fergus is simply stroll around and bask in its “storybook” vibe. Explore 19th-century limestone buildings and heritage homes, and browse unique local businesses like The Bookery — a whimsical used book store that’ll make you feel as though you have stepped into another place and time.

The town also hosts a bunch of festivities throughout the year. Time your visit right and check out events like the Fergus Scottish Festival & Highland Games, an annual three-day celebration of all things Scottish, with Celtic musicians, pipe band competitions, highland dancers, and local vendors. The 2025 festival takes place from August 8 to 10.

There’s also the Fergus Medieval Faire, on July 26, a free, family-oriented day of medieval fun and merriment, where downtown is transformed into a fantasy world with knights and ladies, Vikings, battles, wizards, birds of prey, musicians, and archers.

Where to eat

Start with a hearty meal at The Brewhouse in downtown Fergus, known for its quality Scottish-Canadian pub fare and patio views of the beautiful Grand River.

For lighter fare, check out Tapavino Wine & Tapas Bar, where you’ll find creative dishes made to share in a small, intimate space.

There are also several fun stores to stop by and grab a snack, such as I Love Chocolate, where you can indulge your sweet tooth with handcrafted Belgian chocolates and truffles, or Fergus Fine Foods, where you can pick up something on the go or a pre-made meal for later.

Where to stay

Stay the night in style at The Breadalbane Inn, a beautifully restored estate that dates back to the mid-1800s. This inn has several charming suites, many of which have the added luxury of in-room Jacuzzi tubs and fireplaces.

Nestled above The Brewhouse, you’ll find The “Brew” Rooms, which have two unique rooms (one of which features an elegant four-poster bed) that blend historic charm with modern comfort.

So there you have it. A little slice of the Scottish Highlands — minus the jet lag!