St. George’s Park

If you want to understand the soul of Guelph, you have to start in St. George’s Park. As a Realtor® who prioritizes people over commissions, I don’t just see “inventory” here; I see the literal foundation of our city as well as my own family history.

St. George’s Park isn’t just a neighbourhood; it’s a collection of stories told through architecture, century-old maples, and the high views that once drew Guelph’s early elite.

A Personal Connection: The Bennett Legacy

My Grandfather, Leo Bennett, a teletype operator for Bondgard and Sons with his two Boxer’s on Bennett Farm, Lane Street in Guelph. Date unknown.

This area holds a very special place in my heart. Long before the 40 and 60 foot lots of the 1950s defined the landscape, my ancestors, Leo, William, and Annie Bennett farmed this very land.

If you’ve ever driven down Bennett Avenue, or turned onto Shirley, Cadillac, Winston, or Franklin, you are walking the grounds where my family lived and worked. Seeing this land transition from the Bennett family farm into the vibrant residential pocket it is today is a reminder of why I’m so passionate about our local history.

From Estate Homes to “Victory” Housing

The architectural diversity of St. George’s Park is a timeline of Guelph’s growth.

  • The Estates: On the hill overlooking downtown, you’ll find Guelph’s original grand manors, including landmarks like Wyoming and Ker Cavan. These homes represent the craftsmanship and scale of a bygone era.
  • The Strawberry Box & War-Time Homes: As you move toward the areas my family farmed, you’ll see an abundance of the charming Strawberry Box houses. Many of these were built as War-Time Houses to settle returning veterans.
  • The CMHC Connection: Interestingly, some of these sturdy, efficient homes were built by the Victory Housing Corporation, the government-led predecessor to today’s Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). They remain some of the most sought-after, solid entry points into the neighbourhood today.

Lifestyle, Landmarks & The Hundred Steps

Living here means being steps away from the heartbeat of the city while enjoying a quiet, leafy retreat.

  • St. George’s Park: The neighbourhood’s namesake is a hub of activity. Whether you’re hitting the tennis courts or letting the kids run free, it’s the ultimate community gathering spot.
  • A Gateway to The Ward: One of the most unique features of the neighbourhood is the physical connection between the “High Ground” and the valley below. You can take a short, scenic walk down “The Hundred Steps” from Grove Street down to Elizabeth Street. It’s a local rite of passage that connects the elegance of the Park to the industrial-cool character of The Ward (St. Patrick’s Ward).
  • Education: Home to John Galt Public School, the area is a magnet for families looking for a walkable lifestyle and a strong sense of school spirit.

Why Michael Bennett?

As a lifelong Guelphite and former advertising professional at the Guelph Mercury, I bring a unique perspective to St. George’s Park real estate. I understand the “bones” of these homes and the deep-rooted value of the land they sit on.

Whether I’m sharing travel stories via postcard or helping a neighbour with a “dump run” to get their garage market-ready, I’m here to be your local ambassador. I’m not the NFL player or the book character, I’m the guy who knows exactly where the Bennett farm was and which step on “The Hundred” is the best place to stop and catch the view.

Thinking of buying or selling in St. George’s Park?

Let’s chat about the history, the market, and your future in this iconic Guelph neighbourhood.

Michael Bennett – Guelph Real Estate Professional

People. Relationships. Royal City Roots.