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Home / Norfolk Advantages / Community
Whether you’re drawn to the cultural heritage of Delhi, the scenic beauty of Port Dover, the bustling urban centre of Simcoe, the agricultural roots of Waterford, or the quaint charm of Courtland, you’ll find a community that resonates with your lifestyle and interests. These varied landscapes make up the heart of Norfolk County. Each community, with its own unique history, culture, and amenities, contributes to the overall allure of the region, making it an ideal place for both residents and visitors alike.
Norfolk County has many hamlets and villages that serve as tranquil, tight-knit communities. Some of the larger ones include Bloomsburg, Boston, Langton, Lynedoch, Port Ryerse, Renton, St. Williams, Vittoria, Wilsonville, and Windham Centre.
*According to Statistics Canada, 2016 Census
Simcoe is Norfolk County‘s largest urban area and home to many important industries, including Canada’s largest ice cream plant and the new Toyotetsu auto parts plant. Simcoe is home to a lush park system, many heritage sites, restaurants, shops, businesses and professional services, several hotels and motels, a full-service hospital, Simcoe Little Theatre, MyFM 98.9 radio, and the daily Simcoe Reformer newspaper. The Lynn Valley Trail connects the town to Port Dover. Population: 13,992*.
Port Dover is best known for its fishing industry. Tourism has always been a strong industry here, thanks in part to motorcycles that visit every Friday the 13th. The beach and pier are very popular. All ages enjoy watching the fishing tugs return with their catch. Lighthouse Festival Theatre boasts record crowds each season. Restaurants are filled with people enjoying Lake Erie perch and pickerel. Boaters love the Port Dover Harbour Marina. Unique to the town is the vibrant Port Dover Harbour Museum. There are many shops and places to stay. Population: 6,161*.
Delhi boasts a diverse ethnic makeup, bringing many cultures and heritages together to strengthen the community. German, Belgian, Hungarian, and Polish halls reflect Delhi’s European heritage and often feature special events throughout the year. Many stores and businesses are locally owned and operated and offer exceptional customer service and locally grown fruits and vegetables. Le Tour de Norfolk, headquartered in Delhi, hosts over 1,000 cyclists every year. Unique to the town are the Delhi Tobacco Museum & Heritage Centre and the Delhi Community Health Centre. Population: 4,240*.
Waterford is home to tree-lined streets, stately heritage homes, friendly shops, restaurants, businesses, and industry, including DEB Canada and Norfolk Disposal. Ginseng, cabbage, and other horticultural crops grow around the town. Waterford Heritage & Agricultural Museum provides many exhibits highlighting the social and agricultural heritage of the area. The Waterford Town Hall provides a summer concert series. Waterford Ponds are popular for swimming, fishing, and kayaking. Population: 3,132*.
Courtland is famous for its bakery and nearby manufacturers, such as Trackless Vehicles, Cadman Manufacturing, and Breeze Wood Products. It is home to the youngest population in Norfolk County.
Port Rowan has long served the needs of the surrounding area with numerous stores and businesses. Marinas and trailer parks in the Port Rowan area offer everything from birding, boating, fishing, sailing, and camping to winter ice fishing. Canada’s first Forestry Station Interpretive Centre is located nearby, as well as the national headquarters of Bird Studies Canada, and the village and mill at Backus Heritage Conservation Education Centre. For sun worshippers, the sandy beaches of Long Point Provincial Park are located a short drive to the south. Population: 1,102*.