Our lakeside garden
Stratford’s Pergola Garden is on the north shore of Lake Victoria, just a short walk from the Dutch Memorial Garden. From the Shakespearean Gardens, cross Huron Street (carefully, please) to York Street with its many small shops offering gifts, crafts and good things to eat and drink. A walkway over R. Thomas Orr Dam leads to the Pergola.
For those driving, there is a large parking lot on York Street, but it is a popular area and parking places can be difficult to find. It may be easier to find parking on William Street and other streets near St. James’ Anglican Church on the other side of the river. There are many parking places in Downtown Stratford, a short walk away.
Sit and enjoy the view
Seen across the lake from York Street, the pergola is a distinctive structure. A short walk across the dam, the plantings in the Pergola garden are chosen and maintained by members of Garden Stratford.
The Pergola is a great place to spend a few moments sitting and enjoying the garden and the view. In summer, the experience is enhanced by the sound of children enjoying the nearby Stratford Lion’s Pool.
History of the garden
This is Stratford’s second pergola. The first, a somewhat larger structure, was constructed in 1933. Stratford’s waterfront was a very different scene at that time and the pergola was an important gathering place near a very popular swimming beach. Large crowds gathered for events such as this swimming race.
Sadly, in April 1937, Stratford had severe flooding, and the pergola was destroyed. More than 73 years later, the present pergola was dedicated and it is once again a meeting place for Stratford residents and visitors.
