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Welcome to Whitby! Don’t let the tranquil waterfront fool you, this is a community full of arts & culture programming. For history buffs, it’s also one of the best places to visit if you’re looking to brush up on the War of 1812. We asked Lisa Johnson of the Lynde House Museum & Warren General Store to share some of her favourite spots around town with us.

Lynde House Museum is a must-see. It’s the oldest house in Durham Region, and played an important role in the War of 1812. History comes alive here, with museum staffers in period clothing doing everything from spinning wool, to baking Darby cakes, to engaging in the occasional military reenactment. It’s a great place to learn about 19th century Canadian life, and pick up some old-fashioned know-how.

For Lisa, a trip to Lynde House Museum should always be followed up with a visit to the Caldense Bakery. There’s a fantastic selection of pies, cakes, and fresh bread, but the real stars here are the delectable custard tarts.

Not too far away are the main branch of the Whitby Public Library and Celebration Square, where the farmer’s market regularly brings the freshest produce, meat, and baked goods for the eager Whitbians.

Finally, you can’t visit Whitby without taking a little time out of your day to go for a stroll along the calm shores of Lake Ontario. Or, if you’re curious about what the rest of Durham Region has to offer, then check out our Pickering to Port Perry Guide.

Ontario Culture Days Programming

Whitby and Durham Region have a lot on the go for this year’s Culture Days celebration. Pick up some 19th century know-how at Lynde House, like how to bake some delicious Darby Cakes, or how to turn a bunch of yarn into an adorable doll:

  • Since the beginning of history, children have enjoyed creating and playing with dolls. Digitally join instructor Patty Davis in the Lynde House Parlour and learn how to easily make an old-fashioned doll of your own.
  • Have you ever wondered what families ate for breakfast 200 years ago? Virtually join instructor Mitchell Daniels in the Lynde House Kitchen, as he demonstrates how to make a traditional Georgian-era morning meal of Darby Cakes.

For a full list of events in Whitby click here.



Throughout the entire Culture Days festival, we’ll be dropping in on many different communities across the province. Hit the button below to check out the growing roster of these featured communities.