- In a courtyard — enter through the blue gateway on north side of the Esplanade under the sign reading Berkeley Castle
- Photo: © Luke Tyszkiewicz
This hidden getaway features a beautiful London plane tree (Platanus x acerifolia) in good health with an attractive form. It is recognizable because of its colourful bark that peels off in crisp swathes. These trees are commonly planted along streets in Europe and were first planted in Canada out of colonial nostalgia. Luckily for the tree, it was planted with lots of room for its roots to grow and hence is thriving. Nearby, setting a bucolic mood, are the Boston ivy (Parthenocissus tricuspidata) vines reaching up the walls. Vines are like trees in that they put on wood every year and grow branches. These vines are quite old and likely planted at the same time as the London plane tree. Although often maligned, vines are not as damaging to buildings as sometimes thought. They in fact cool Berkeley Castle, protecting it from exposure to sun and providing habitat for birds.
Berkeley Castle got its name from the craftspeople, artists, and musicians who lived, worked, and flourished in the squalid surroundings during the 1970s. Purchased by developers Diamond and Partners in the 1970s, the building has been significantly restored.
- Next stop: Enjoying a drink in the shade
- Previous stop: Crombie Park
- Return to map of: St. Lawrence
Funding for the program is generously provided by:
