Bolton, formally known as Bolton's Mill, was founded in 1794 when James Bolton helped build a flour mill for his relative George Bolton. With a 2011 population of 26,996, Bolton is the most populous community in the Town of Caledon, located in the Region of Peel approximately 45 minutes north west of Toronto. The downtown, and the area that historically defined the village is in a valley along the banks of the Humber River. The suburban housing developments began near King Street, up to Bolton Heights Road with expansion occurring in the late 1970’s and early 1980’s. The urban area up to Columbia Way, which forms the northern boundary, began booming in the late 1980’s with housing developments continuing towards the southern and the western parts of the town through the 1990’s and early 2000’s
Located in the southern reaches of the Hills of Headwaters tourism area with scenic countryside and quaint villages, Bolton offers something for everyone. Outdoor pursuits such as hiking and cycling are a great way to enjoy the natural and built heritage. The area is popular among day-trippers looking to get out of the city and enjoy some peace and quiet in the country. A number of community parks are located throughout the town including the Dicks Dam Park and R.J.A. Potts Memorial Park which features squash, bocce and basketball courts. Bolton is home to the Daniel’s Ark Wildlife Preservation Alliance, a wilderness preserve where visitors can view cougars, lynx, black bears, wolves and more. Children will also enjoy the climbing wall and tree house playground at Rockin Play, or entertain them with a round of mini-golf at the Putt-n-Play Entertainment Centre. Albion Hills, located close by in Palgrave is a conservation area popular for tobogganing, cross-country skiing, fishing, swimming, biking, hiking and more.
Bolton provides a rare combination of rural and urban elements. Located in a picturesque community with large open spaces and ideal amenities for outdoor enthusiasts, Bolton also offers numerous urban amenities in the historic downtown. Restaurants, cafes, stores and specialty shops are centered around Bolton’s downtown core and offer residents a wide range of shopping and entertainment options.
