Lakefield
A Trail Town Along the Trent-Severn Waterway
Welcome to Lakefield
Nestled on the shores of the Trent-Severn Waterway, Lakefield has a gentle pace and friendly locals that has inspired people to visit for generations. The area is alive with events, shops and eateries, offering something for everyone. Treat yourself, pick up daily supplies, or access services — all are easily found in Lakefield.
There are many ways to explore the Village. Walk the Lakefield Trail, kayak along the Waterway, or access the bike share program at the marina to cycle through historic downtown. Immerse yourself in local culture at our festivals, events and productions. Feast on home-grown cuisine. Bird watch at Imagine the Marsh or show your skill at the skateboard park.
With most accommodations a short stroll from the water’s edge, surrender to tranquility after an exhilarating day of exploration. Come see for yourself what Lakefield and area has to offer.
Discover Lakefield
Plan for Fun on the Water
Situated at the mouth of Katchewanooka Lake, the Lakefield Marina offers full-service slips, wifi, and more. Get your boating and fishing trip started here.
Expand Your Literary Horizons
Foundational Canadian writers Margaret Laurence, Catherine Parr-Traill, and Susanna Moodie all called Lakefield home. The Lakefield Literary Festival carries the artistic tradition into the present.
Eat, Drink, & Be Merry
You’re spoiled for choice among Lakefield’s excellent food options. With its twenty draft taps and quality pub fare, the Canoe & Paddle is a local favourite among beer lovers.
Take the Long Way Home
With four out of six Kawartha Classics Road Cycling Routes passing through Lakefield, this town is a dream for cyclists who appreciate the beauty of quiet backroads.
Prepare for Adventure
Need to gear up for an expedition? Whether it’s boats, camp supplies, hiking essentials or Nordic skis, Lakefield’s Adventure Outfitters has you covered with gear sales and rentals.
Explore Further
There’s more to Lakefield than you can see in one visit or even one season. Discover more attractions like the Speed Skating Oval, historic walking tour, and local shopping highlights here.
Lakefield Community History
Settled in 1831 by Colonel Samuel Strickland, the village of Lakefield is often considered the gateway to cottage country in Peterborough & the Kawarthas.
Nestled in its downtown core sits Christ Church, built in 1853, which now serves as a seasonal museum that houses area artifacts and items related to the writings of famed residents Susanna Moodie and Catharine Parr Traill (sisters of Lakefield’s founding father), as well as Margaret Laurence. This museum is one of nearly forty historical locations in the village, including Lakefield College School, Hillside Cemetery, Reydon Manor and the sites of former wooden boat and canoe manufacturers.
Originally sustained by the sawmill industry, Lakefield is now a prosperous community supported by small business, specialty retail and tourism, along with international companies.