Walking tour features historic homes of Paradise

They are familiar landmarks on the road from Middleton to Bridgetown and now it's a chance to peek inside.

The Homes of Paradise walking tour, showcasing six of the area’s signature properties, takes place on Canada Day from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. (rain or shine) with all proceeds going to the Active and Healthy Living Society.

The tour features both new and heritage properties, with visits inside and out. Ellenhurst, Caleb House, and Burnbrae are among the heritage properties featured.

The first stop is "Caleb House" now owned by John and Julie Johnson. This is one of the oldest homes featured on the tour and is named after former owner Caleb Phinney, a mathematician and teacher. "Ellenhurst" now owned by Dave and Linda Hankinson, was once a summer home built by William James, a Bermuda aristocrat. The Hankinsons have been lovingly restoring the property for the past 10 years.

The home was built in 1898 for the James' 25th anniversary and was named in honour of his wife, Ellen. The Hankinsons still have the home's original guestbook that has been signed by visitors and maintained by each of the home’s six owners.

Dave Hankinson said he dreamed of owning the 12-acre estate for many years and by luck, was able to finally purchase the property in 1989. He added it took them 10 years to finally move in.

Other heritage homes featured on the tour are the Old Paradise Inn, on Paradise Lane, and Burnbrae, on Highway 201. The Old Paradise Inn was built in 1892 by Charles Durling and is now owned by Kim and Claude Grimard. This Second Empire style home was once a favorite stopover for travelling salesmen and vacationers.

Burnbrae, now owned by Bruce and Debbie Gillis, was built by William Morse and remained in the family for several generations until Dr. William Morse sold it to the Gillis family.

Apple Hill and the 'home for life' Mediterranean-style home built by Larry Leonard are the newest homes on the tour.

The charming brick house with the gambrel-style roof, Apple Hill, was built in 1968 by Mark and Marian Leonard and features a breathtaking garden, a perfectly preserved ancient campfire, and a tombstone of one of the first Planter families to arrive in 1777.

The neighbouring modern home built by Larry and Yolande Leonard features a stunning kitchen and an floor design that is suitable for a family in all stages. The home features a sweeping lawn and a quiet patio. It was planned to blend modern needs with the traditional landscape and apple orchard

Everyone who joins the tour is invited to sample the strawberry shortcake to be served at the Paradise Community Hall and view the special photo display showcasing various heritage homes of the area.

Parking is provided at the hall, and along the side of the road beside the properties. People are encouraged to take the tour on foot, as all the homes are within about 15 minute walk.

Tickets are $15 and are available at the Lawrencetown and Bridgetown Pharmasaves, or by calling 584-3511.