Chaplin Estates Guide

History

Chaplin Estates began with a plan of subdivision, registered by William John Chaplin and his son James D. Chaplin, in 1913. The Chaplin family had been landowners in this area dating back to 1860, when this district was known simply as "Eglinton".

Chaplin Estates was marketed as a high-class residential district. The developers included a long list of building restrictions and zoning bylaws, in the sale of each property. There were no semi-detached houses allowed, and stucco exteriors were not to cover more than half the house. Housing lots feature generous set backs.

Present

This distinguished neighbourhood has always been one of Toronto's most exclusive addresses. Chaplin Estates homeowners enjoy convenient access to excellent public and private schools, shopping, parks and recreation, and transit service. 

Chaplin Estates is an area within the Yonge-Eglinton neighbourhood. It lies west of Yonge Street and is bounded by Eglinton Avenue to the north and Avenue Road to the west. The southern boundary is Chaplin Crescent which itself runs parallel to the former Beltline Railway line, now a scenic walking and biking trail known as the Kay Gardner Beltline Trail. A portion of the TTC's Yonge-University-Spadina subway line runs aboveground in the eastern fringe of Chaplin Estates, and transit access is provided through Davisville station and Eglinton station.

Homes

Chaplin Estates' two and three storey detached houses are situated on premium lots with private driveways.  The houses in this neighbourhood were built in the 1920's and 1930's, and include many fine examples of Tudor, Georgian, and English Cottage style architecture.

Shopping

Chaplin Estates residents are within walking distance of "The Eglinton Way" shopping district along Eglinton Avenue West. This ritzy shopping area includes high-end fashion boutiques, gourmet food shops, professional offices, restaurants, and the "Eglinton" movie theatre.

The Yonge street shopping district is also within walking distance of Chaplin Estates. This highly visible shopping area includes many one-of-a-kind stores, and trendy restaurants that draw customers from all over the city.

Recreation and Leisure

The North Toronto Community Centre has an indoor and outdoor pool, water slides, a gymnasium, a walking track, and exercise rooms.  Eglinton Park is adjacent to the community centre. Its facilities include a baseball diamond, tennis courts, a wading pool and an artificial ice hockey rink.  The historic Beltline trail, walking and cycling path, is easily accessed from Oriole Park, at the south end of the neighbourhood.

The Northern District branch of the Toronto Public Library is located on Orchard View Boulevard. This branch offers programs for seniors, adults, and children.

Transportation

Chaplin Estates residents can walk to the bus stops on Yonge Street, Eglinton Avenue, Oriole Parkway, and Chaplin Crescent. The Davisville and the Eglinton subway stations are also within walking distance of this neighbourhood.  The main east-west arterial roadway is Eglinton Avenue. Residents are approximately fifteen minutes from the Allen Expressway, and the Don Valley Parkway.  Motorists can be downtown in fifteen minutes via Yonge Street or Avenue Road.