The Goward House Traditions Continue
D riving down Arbutus Road, you may notice a large heritage house hidden amongst the trees, and find yourself surprised to learn that it is a recreation centre. But this is no ordinary recreation centre by any means. The original home, built by Bernard Goward in 1908, was then called the ‘Woodlands’. It was converted in the late ‘80s into an activity centre for those aged 50+, and renamed Goward House. Despite its transformation, the house retains much of its heritage character and original charm.
The second generation of Gowards, Owen and his wife, Elizabeth, were both artists. Owen did watercolours, and Elizabeth was recognized as a portrait painter. The artistic tradition continues today, offering good space to portrait painters, Chinese brush painters and drop-in artists — for the purpose of painting in good light on a weekly basis. Goward House also operates as an art gallery, rotating artwork by local artists on a monthly basis. An upper level gallery displays art completed by both the Gowards.
As a child, I visited my cousins at Woodlands. At that time, the lower level, being a dark and dusty place with a dirt floor, was used for storage. As children, we believed a monster lived down there. The monster rattled and sometimes glowed, and to our childish imagination, looked like a huge giant octopus.
It was, of course, just a large sawdust-burning furnace. Since the renovation, the lower level was raised, and this Goward House space has become a bright and open space that opens onto a lovely manicured garden and back lawn. The space hosts numerous activities ranging from tai chi classes to guest speaker lectures to weddings and other rental celebrations. It also houses a small theatre and an arts and craft room.
In the past, if the timing was right, visitors to Woodlands would be offered lunch. They could count on soup and homemade bread. Goward House continues to offer visitors simple lunches in its tea room at a modest charge.
The six-acre property of Goward House is surrounded by a forest providing a sense of privacy, peace and tranquility — a refuge from today’s busy world.
If the weather is pleasant, come and enjoy a quiet walk on the woodchip walking trails while admiring the gardens that border Goward House. Drop in and visit the art gallery, enjoy lunch in the tea room, and visit the front desk volunteer to learn about the activities offered.
Goward House continues to provide a warm welcome to all visitors, just as it did in the past. They look forward to welcoming you!
Goward House is a non-profit society that operates as an activity centre from Monday to Friday, 9 am to 4 pm, for individuals over the age of 50. It is an art gallery that displays art shows monthly. gowardhouse.com