Old Mill Toronto Hotel

Tucked away from the bustling downtown scene, the Old Mill Toronto is a romantic oasis in the beautiful Humber Valley. Its motto "a bit of England far from England," is echoed in its exterior, made of exposed stones and peaked windows. The site was developed over a century ago as a grist mill and expanded in 1914 with the construction of the Old Mill Tea Garden, which still serves English afternoon tea. After undergoing renovation in 2001, the Old Mill Toronto was transformed into the cozy hotel it is today. It has a lodge feeling that appeals primarily to couples and those seeking quiet business retreats.

The grounds have winding stone pathways, flower gardens, a water fountain, and a waterfall. The hotel lobby features a lovely sitting area with black wood beams running across the ceiling, a fireplace, exposed brick walls, and burgundy leather study chairs. On some nights, live jazz from the hotel's Home Smith Bar percolate through the black and white hallways that are decorated with large picture windows and pops of red decor.

The Old Mill Toronto is in Humber Valley, a 15-minute drive to both downtown Toronto and to the airport. It's difficult to reach by public transportation. There's not much in the area immediately surrounding the hotel, but the Dip 'N Dip ice cream shop and the and the Old Mill Station are both a ten-minute walk away. The CN Tower, St. Lawrence Market, and Edwards Gardens are all around half an hour away by car. The Royal Conservatory of Music and Hockey Hall of Fame are both a 13-minute drive away.

The rooms and suites at the Old Mill Toronto have a welcoming and homey feel, with blue and red furnishings and traditional furniture. Rooms are spacious and include robes, electronic safes, stereos, coffee machines, writing desks and classically styled bathrooms. All have charming built-in wood mantels with fireplaces and flat-screen TVs, and most have sofa beds. Suites come with whirlpool tubs, living rooms, and separate bedrooms. Special packages for couples and business travelers come with meals and access to the spa and/or meeting rooms.

The Old Mill Toronto's quiet, forested environment provides a romantic setting for weddings and anniversaries. On-site facilities include a wedding garden and gazebo, elegant ballrooms, and a flower shop, as well as a chapel with a peaked roof, exposed brick, and stained glass. The small but cozy spa organizes group treatments for five to 75 people. There is fine dining at the Old Mill Restaurant and English afternoon tea at the Terrace Restaurant. The Home Smith Bar has live jazz on some evenings. Although the hotel is popular among couples, it also appeals to business travelers and has a work station as well as sixteen meeting rooms with classic and antique touches, natural lighting, patio access, and fireplaces.