Who doesn’t love the beloved kids’ character, Anne from the iconic Lucy Maud Montgomery novel, Anne of Green Gables? Our parents did, we did and now a new generation is falling in love with the character. And we have Netflix and the Pickering Museum Village to thank for it.
While Netflix popularized the character with its Anne with an E series, the giant living history museum gave us a chance to experience the worlds of both, Anne and her creator, IRL. The museum recently announced the reopening of The Anne & Maud Experience. Only this time it’s more extensive and immersive.
From bringing the fictitious world of Anne Shirley to life to giving us a glimpse into the home and life of L.M. Montgomery, The Anne & Maud Experience is nothing short of a delight for just about everyone. And here’s how you can immerse yourself in this beautiful historic world…
#1 Drive through The Lucy Maud Montgomery Discovery Trail
To give us a wider perspective of Montgomery’s life, Discover Uxbridge, collaborated with the Central Counties Tourism to set up a 2-hour long drive trail around the Uxbridge region. This is where Maud spent 15 years of her life. The trail includes some 15 spots with well-preserved architecture including the Uxbridge Railway Station, Leaskdale Manse and the Uxbridge Historical Centre. As you drive along the trail, tune into a podcast that highlights the significance of each stop on the trail.
#2 Take a walking tour of the museum village
Now, we already know that the Pickering Museum Village has been serving as a set for the many TV and film adaptations of Anne of Green Gables. The most recent being Netflix’s Anne with an E. The museum is now offering guided tours of this seriously grammable old-world village. Plus, the 45-min tour will explore parts of the narrative from the book as well as the screen adaptations! In addition, you can also take on the Anne And Maud Discovery walking trail, in partnership with TRCA on the City of Pickering’s land.
#3 Enjoy a picnic in the village
If you have little Anne fans around you, this is your chance to have a picnic in the village. Explore the historical houses, learn about Maud and her ancient world and create your own blend of tea. Then embark on an audio tour of Anne’s universe and listen to her fave memories from the book while enjoying a picnic lunch.
#4 Have Tea & Tour the Leaskdale Manse (Maud’s residence)
Take a tour of Leaskdale Manse that was home to the cherished writer for a good 15 years. This is where Anne (and many others), her world and her series of adventures were penned by Maud. This National Historic Site truly brings the glorious past to life. Literary fan or not, we highly recommend this tour of the residence, the Leaskdale Church and the gardens. And while you’re there, might as well relish a warm cup of tea and fresh scones.
#5 Bag Anne & Maud-themed souvenirs from the local boutique shops and cafes
What’s a memorable day without something to remember it by, eh? Fortunately, the local shops in town are carrying some interesting Anne & Maud-themed products. The Bridge Social, for example, is currently offering Anne’s favourite Organic Raspberry Cordial, hot tea, as well as a pretty pink natural Lip & Cheek Rouge ‘Maud’. Cool, right?!
Oh, and don’t forget to hit up their local cafes and restaurants for some refreshing hot/cold bevies and a delish bite. The Open Studio Art Café in Pickering and Bridge Social in Uxbridge, in particular, have quite charming vibes. Plus while you’re there, you can pop right over to Blue Heron Books!
The great thing is that the tickets are now on sale. So, you don’t need to wait much longer to plan your trip. Here, check out the Anne & Maud Experience website to book your tickets (where needed) and other deets.
