MANOTICK

Overview & Location

  • Population & Size: Approx. 5,315 residents (2021), covering ~6.7 km².

  • Origins & Name: Founded around 1860–64 by Moss Kent Dickinson, named from the Algonquin word for “island”.

  • Proximity: ~25 km (30 min) south of downtown Ottawa, hugging the Rideau River, adjacent to Barrhaven and Riverside South.

Character & Communities

  • Village Core: Historic stone buildings (e.g., Watson’s Mill, Dickinson House) line the main drag—bridge, shops, boutiques, eateries, art galleries, and pubs.

  • Subdivisions & Neighbourhoods: Areas include Manotick Village, Mahogany, Rideau Forest, Long Island, Nicholls Island, Colony Heights, Watterson Corners.

  • Heritage & Growth: The village maintains its 19th-century charm even as newer homes spring up on serviced sewer/water in Mahogany and Rideau Forest.

Schools & Education

  • Manotick Public School: K–5, dual English/French and 235 students; strong community feel and inclusion.

  • St. Leonard Catholic School: K–6, English/French bilingual programming.

  • St. Mark Catholic High School: Grades 7–12 (~1,100 students); noted for its academic & extracurricular programs.

  • South Carleton High School: Main public high school nearby in Richmond.

Amenities & Lifestyle

  • Walkable Village: Compact main street on Dickinson Square – ideal for errands without a drive.

  • Shopping & Dining: Boutique stores, coffee shops, award-winning restaurants, galleries, rustic pubs—all within strolling distance.

  • Heritage Attractions:

    • Watson’s Mill: A functioning 1860s gristmill and museum with Sunday milling demos; local legend tells of the ghost Ann Currier.

    • Dickinson Days: Annual June festival with parade, crafts, pancake breakfasts, wagon rides, and more.

Recreation & Outdoors

  • Riverside Living: Enjoy easy access to the Rideau River for kayaking, fishing, scenic walks. The historic bridge and riverbank trails are local favorites—fully walkable.

  • Community Spirit: Tight-knit, family-oriented neighbourhood with events celebrated at village square and mill.

Transportation & Commute

  • By Car: Quick 30-minute drive to central Ottawa via Hwy 416/Veterans Memorial or Limebank Road; traffic is manageable outside peak times.

  • By Bus: Limited OC Transpo routes; public transit use is low (~2 %).

  • Cycling & Walking: High walkability score (~72), good bike score.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Historic charm with scenic riverside ambiance

  • Genuine village feel with boutique shops & eateries

  • Excellent schools and family-friendly spirit

  • Strong community events (e.g. Dickinson Days)

  • Easy access to Ottawa and river trails

Cons

  • Limited public transit—car essential

  • Higher cost of living and home prices

  • Smaller population—fewer nightlife options

Tips for Newcomers

  • Visit during Dickinson Days in early June to dive into local culture.

  • Explore Watson’s Mill for its historic mill demonstrations and riverside walks.

  • If working in Ottawa, consider park-and-ride near Hwy 416 to avoid downtown driving.

  • Join the Manotick Village & Community Association to connect with events and local updates.