Strathmere is more than just a venue; it’s a story over two centuries in the making where history and nature come together to offer a unique escape. Its origins trace back to 1825, when John Phelan, an Irish immigrant from Queen’s County, Ireland, made his way to Canada. Settling in North Gower, Phelan and his wife, Margaret McCarthy, started their journey with a humble log cabin and 400 acres of rich farmland. Through dedication and hard work, they transformed this land into a flourishing dairy farm, where beef cattle and thoroughbred horses roamed, and grapes still grow to this day. In 1860, John Phelan embarked on building what would become the heart of Strathmere - an elegant 18-room stone mansion on a hill that overlooks the sweeping farmland. Completed in 1865, the Farmhouse was a marvel of its time, with a grand staircase, alcoves for religious statuettes, and a sprawling kitchen designed to entertain. Its character, still preserved, offers a glimpse into the craftsmanship and way of life of the Phelan family. The estate remained rooted in the family until 1955, when Alex and Eleanor Sim purchased it as a country retreat. They named it “Strathmere,” turning it into a European-style folk school, where urban dwellers could find solace and personal growth amidst nature. Whether you’re here to relax, reflect, or rejoice, Strathmere welcomes you to be part of its living history - a place where timeless beauty, local flavours, and modern comforts blend seamlessly.

From its humble beginnings, Strathmere has blossomed into a picturesque estate, celebrating over 35 years of unforgettable weddings and events. Now a proud member of the Dreammind group, Strathmere continues to honour its rich heritage while nurturing both the land and its visitors. The estate features three stunning event spaces - the Farmhouse, the Lodge, and the Garden House - each offering a distinct atmosphere for your special day. Every venue boasts an exclusive ceremony site, adorned with luscious flowers, beautiful trees, and inviting outdoor areas, complete with an inviting fireplace for an added touch of warmth and charm. Guests can indulge in a range of on-site amenities. After celebrating or escaping the city bustle, visitors can retreat to our cozy country rooms, just steps from the stunning circular garden - a heritage treasure that transforms into a haven for monarch butterflies during migration. For ultimate relaxation, indulge in the Strathmere Retreat and Spa, where you can refresh and rejuvenate both the body and mind. A feature that makes Strathmere even more special is its commitment to sustainable and organic farming. Food grown in Strathmere’s on-site organic gardens is harvested by our grower Colin Lundy and prepared by our Red Seal executive chef Robert McGillivray and his team in our scratch kitchens. Colin also nurtures our bee colonies year-round, planting flowers to support the hives and harvesting rich wildflower honey, which is used to add a distinctive local flavour to our dishes. This Farm-to-table experience not only delights the palate but reflects the estate’s deep connection to the land and ongoing dedication to wellness. Escape with us, even if it’s just for a short while. We offer a variety of rooms and larger private accommodations—most of which have ample outdoor space and scenic views—to suit your unique getaway. Quaint, charming, and filled with locally-sourced antiques. We look forward to hosting you.