Tour The Towns By The Bay (of Fundy)

Towns By The Bay

Do I have a New Brunswick bay-cation getaway for you! Enjoy a scenic drive and a fun-filled exploration of Rothesay, Quispamsis, Hampton and Grand Bay-Westfield. If I said “WOW!” once, I said it a hundred times. These pretty Towns By The Bay (of Fundy) deliver spectacular views & fabulous fall foliage, lovely accommodations & dining, architecture & history, arts & culture, trails & adventure, and a dynamic river system.

Follow my 3-days, 2-nights itinerary to fall in love with these sweet little towns that will woo you with their hospitality and unique character. There’s a world of wonder waiting for you in these charming New Brunswick Towns By The Bay.

Rothesay

After an early morning start from Fredericton, New Brunswick with my friend Lucie in tow, we arrived in Rothesay and began our Towns By The Bay tour at the historic Rothesay Common. This community greenspace is bordered by three churches and many stately homes. Young families were enjoying the playground here, as we crossed a stone bridge to take in The Arc, 2012 by Jo Kley of Germany, the first of many granite sculptures that we would seek out on the International Sculpture Trail. We next wandered down to the Rothesay Yacht Club and enjoyed the view of the Kennebecasis River. We hopped back in the car shortly after to drive the tree-lined Rothesay Road to ooh & ahh over all the large historic homes. Recommended stops include: the 135-year-old South House (one of the oldest surviving heritage buildings in town) located on the Rothesay Netherwood School campus (40 College Hill Road), East Riverside-Kinghurst Park (2602 Rothesay Road), The Great Race of 1871 Kennebecasis Rowing Sculpture (across from the Rothesay Golf & Country Club), and the Renforth Wharf Beach (141 James Renforth Drive).

Garden Grove Café

We enjoyed lunch at the cozy Garden Grove Café (2 Grove Avenue) across from the Rothesay Common. This licensed café has a community-minded soul. Local art hangs on the walls, and we saw many residents enjoying the trendy vibe here. There is also a nice patio. My Chicken & Brie on Ciabatta was tasty (as was the Prosecco). Lucie equally enjoyed the Chicken Club. Garden Grove’s light menu offerings are all made from scratch with locally-sourced ingredients. Staff were very friendly. We had no room for dessert but the baked offerings looked mighty tempting.

Sweet Things

We squeezed in some time to go to Sweet! Boutique on 116 Hampton Road for a little shopping therapy after lunch. This clothing, accessories, and home decor gift shop is jam-packed. Lucie found a beautiful knit sweater and I am lamenting over a pair of vegan Fly London sneakers I left behind. Lana Langille-Doucette’s Art Studio & Gallery drew us in at 1930 Rothesay Road. Find a bouquet of happy, beautiful things inside. Lana paints to express her gratitude for life, freedom, and the appreciation of simple beauty. We just missed meeting the artist, but her daughter Logan showed us around and I still can’t stop thinking about the gorgeous painted floral cushions I spotted here.

Shadow Lawn Inn

We next checked into our accommodations at the historic Shadow Lawn Inn (3180 Rothesay Road). We settled in for a 2-night stay in this elegant 9-room inn in the heart of Rothesay. It is everything I had expected and more. Shadow Lawn was designated a Local Historic Place for its role as a single family home to a prominent local family and for its architecture. It was first recognized as a summer estate, and later as an internationally known hotel. It is over 150 years old. Shadow Lawn has welcomed such prestigious guests as John Diefenbaker, Pierre Trudeau, Joe Clark, Lord O’Neil, the former Prime Minister of Ireland, and the Earl of Fife. The Diefenbaker room has retained his name, in honour of its first guest. Shadow Lawn is beautifully restored, and yes there is a large shadow (as its name suggests) cast on the front lawn on sunny days from the fully-grown cedars, birch, maple, oak and elm trees that grace the property. Husband & wife team Martin St-Denis & Tracy Pitts purchased the Inn on April 1, 2021, and are continuing its legacy of hospitality. Martin greeted us when we arrived and touched base a few times over our stay. I cannot say enough about this Inn. It is affordable luxury in one of the prettiest Towns By The Bay.

The Robertson

We enjoyed dinner the first evening on-site at The Robertson Restaurant (in Shadow Lawn Inn). We were treated to the Flavours of New Brunswick 5-Course Tasting Menu. It was divine. The care & attention given to creating flavourful & artful offerings with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients was superb. Service was exemplary. Make reservations in advance whether you are staying at the Inn or not. Breakfasts were also enjoyed here at The Robertson (which comes with your stay at the Inn).

Quispamsis

It was another early morning start to make the most of our Day 2 itinerary. After breakfast, our first destination was a mere 10 minutes away at the Quispamsis Arts & Culture Park (12 Landing Court). This park has many amenities including a walking path, picnic/chess tables, and an open-air stage with bench seating. In the summer, music & movies are offered here. Winter welcomes a dreamland light display and a seasonal outdoor rink. This suburban community lies along the Kennebecasis & Hammond River waterways poviding water activities like sailing, kayaking and canoeing. The Hammond River Angling Association and the Darlings Island Covered Bridge were our next planned stops. The drive certainly gave us colourful autumn leaf peeping opportunities. In fact, the sweeping panoramic vistas of red, orange, and yellow leaves were spectacular throughout our whole 3-day Towns By The Bay itinerary.

The Potting Shed

The Potting Shed’s Flower Shop in Hammond River was quickly added to our plan for the day. We drove by and doubled back after getting a glimpse of the outdoor displays. Lucie and I both found treasures inside and enjoyed meeting the passionate owner Lori & her talented daughter. The Potting Shed serves the floral needs of Quispamsis, Hampton, Rothesay & Saint John. Besides weddings and special events, Lori also teaches floral arrangement classes in her shop and hosts an annual Christmas Open House. Follow The Potting Shed on Facebook (FB) for more information.

Darlings Island

Darlings Island is a small residential community on a tiny island and it was our next destination. You can only access it via a modern concrete bridge that was built in 1996. The original Darlings Island Covered Bridge was built in 1914. It is parallel to the newer bridge and is a beauty to photograph. Be sure to walk to the beach below for more perspectives of the bridge and glorious river views. Darlings Island is surrounded by marshlands, river channels, and a variety of wildlife. Drive the Station Loop Road. This is an enchanting tranquil hidden gem off the beaten path.

Hampton

Hampton, I think I love you! Who knew what a happening town this was with such historical significance? I sure didn’t. I kept thinking as I photographed and photographed and photographed all it offered, “I need to do a separate article just on this town as there is so much to see & do here.” This is a town you may find yourself wanting to move to. It has it all. In fact, I met a man from Ontario who did just that. He and his wife decided to pack up their life and move to New Brunswick and with a little research they picked Hampton to settle in. He says it is heaven on earth. “Just look at what I see everyday!” They love it here and no wonder. This couple didn’t know a soul before they moved here, and now they are a solid part of the community and never want to leave. I can see why. You will too.

Idyllic Town

The first view coming into Hampton is its pristine town square, with a gorgeous pavilion resembling an idyllic town out of a Hallmark Movie set. The quaint train station Visitor Information Centre beside it has a charming pattern quilt barn piece on it entitled “Peaceful Hours”. It is part of a wider-spread Kings County Quilt Barn Tour. Find a parking spot and search out the 3 other Hampton quilt barn pieces within walking distance of the town square: Hampton Pharmasave - 599 Main Street - Saw Tooth Star pattern, Lutz Parish Gerrish - 4 Centennial Road - Bow Tie Pattern, and the Old Kings County Jail (Gaol) - 17 Centennial Road - Court House Steps pattern.

There is also a granite sculpture here (another one from the International Sculpture Trail). It is my favourite of all the sculptures I have encountered on the trail. it is entitled "Peace Wing" (2014) and it was created by James Boyd of New Brunswick. Heritage buildings begin to catch your eye next, especially the impressive red sandstone clock tower building. It now houses the Lutz Parish Gerrish law offices but was formerly a post office. This elegant building was built in 1913 by stone masons from England. And if all of this doesn’t impress you, have no worries, Hampton has more to show you.

Station 33 Café

Station 33 Café and Yoga was our lunch stop. It is a licensed café that offers locally roasted coffee, homemade baked goods & delicious food with a focus on local ingredients, sustainability, community & wellness. It is also wrapped up in the sweetest, coziest hang out with a yoga studio upstairs. I fell under its zen spell. It begs you to be in the moment, curl up, and stay awhile. I kept looking for Phoebe from the TV show Friends to walk in and pick up the guitar (displayed on the back wall) to entertain us. I thoroughly enjoyed the Tuna Dill whole grain sandwich with a side of Leek Soup and Lucie said her Turkey Apple Brie sandwich was very tasty. The Peanut Butter Latte called my name next (after seeing many locals ordering it) and it was heavenly sips of yum! Wellness workshops are also offered here. Check out Station 33’s Instagram or FB pages for more information.

Osprey Adventures

Hampton also has a park, wharf & boat launch right on the banks of the Kennebecasis River. The Lighthouse River Centre (1075 Main Street) is directly beside it. It is a multi-purpose facility that is a hub of community programming, workshops and cultural events. The site is also part of the Lower River Passage. In summer, the lower level is home to Osprey Adventures offering canoe & kayak and stand-up paddle boards (SUP) rentals & tours. You can enjoy a solitary paddle or engage an expert guide to give you a comprehensive history of the marshlands area and its diverse wildlife. You (and up to 8 friends) can also paddle these historic river routes in an authentic 26-foot Voyageur canoe built by the Oromocto First Nation.

Kennebecasis River

We parked next to the Lighthouse River Centre and took in the beautiful Kennebecasis River reflective fall foliage views. I swear the leaves were changing colour as we watched. I met Crystal Allen, who was paddling around and practicing yoga headstands on her SUP. She works from home - just up the river, and this is how she spends her lunch breaks. How’s that for a Hampton real estate selling feature? Crystal gave me permission to take some photographs and video of her (see more in my Maritimes Maven & Coreen Hildebrand Instagram accounts).

Historic Homes Walking Tour

The Hampton Historic Homes Walking Tour was our next adventure. It is an easy 20-minute tour from the Lighthouse River Centre. Each home on the tour has a fascinating storied past. This is a lovely area to stroll and appreciate all the local architecture & history. You will also be able to take in a couple more barn quilt pieces as you go: St Paul’s Presbyterian Church - 978 Main Street - Northern Lights Stained Glass pattern, and the “Agricultural Hall” - 1032 Main Street - Poppy pattern.

Kredl’s Corner Market

Kredl’s Corner Market is a local favourite ( 1171 Main Street) and is a must see for any Hampton visit. It opened in 1980 and has grown into a hub for local farm products & tourism. They sell everything that local farms offer including fruit & vegetables, meat, maple products, local preserves, honey and more. Find over 60 flavours of ice cream, fresh in-store baking, and an extensive nursery. The Kredl's BBQ Cookhouse is also open daily for lunch & supper all summer long. While at Kredl’s grab an ice cream or a sweet treat. They feature some of Mrs. Dunster’s baked goods as well as other in-house treats.

Kingston Peninsula

After leaving Hampton, we settled in for a very pretty drive along the Kingston Peninsula. Our first stop was Bubbles & Balms Studio & Boutique – 17 Route 845, Lower Norton where we met owners Justin & Judith Sweeney in their shop below their home. We learned all about their delicious-smelling, skin-nourishing bath & body products made with raw & naturally-derived ingredients. A lot of care goes into everything they do including sourcing ethical & sustainable ingredients right down to their compostable packaging. They graciously gave me a beautiful gift package that I cannot wait to try. The Pottery Shop – Crimmins Pottery – 1 Shampers Bluff Road, Kingston was our next destination. We met Elizabeth Harrison and her son Ben. Elizabeth is a second generation family business owner and Ben just may become the third. Crimmins’ have long been a part of the New Brunswick craft community. Elizabeth’s parents Allan & Sarah Crimmins started producing pottery in 1970. Elizabeth joined the business in 1995 and now runs it with her husband John. I watched Ben working in the studio and I found some lovely candle holders in the shop that now adorn my dining room table. MacKay Apple Orchard - 3155 Route 845, Long Reach was unfortunately closed when we arrived, but Fullerton Farms Corner Market (1 Williams Wharf Road, Long Reach) was open and I popped in for a quick visit before heading onto Yip Cider (3015 Route 845, Long Reach). We sat down with co-owner Sam MacKay to learn more about his family’s orchard and their third generation family business. We sipped on a flight of delicious Yip ciders on their back deck with stunning views of the Saint John River. We returned to Rothesay via a scenic drive that took us from the Saint John River to the Kennebecasis River, back through Quispamsis and on to our evening’s dinner destination.

The Barrel’s Head Gastropub, Peddlers Creek BBQ and Hammond River Brewery

There are several restaurants & craft breweries located throughout Quispamsis & Rothesay, in the Kennebecasis Valley. We decided to head to 141 Hampton Road to Peddlers Creek BBQ & The Barrel’s Head Gastropub. The menu for both restaurants can be accessed from either location. In the end, Lucie & I decided to share TBH Nachos - Greek pita chips tossed in The Barrel Head’s house nacho spice and topped with cheese, green onion, tomato, chilli garlic sauce, cilantro lime sour cream, and house roasted corn and black bean salsa. It is a spicy delight and goes very well with a cold brew from Hammond River Brewery, also conveniently located on-site. After, with our bellies full, we were ready for our return to Shadow Lawn Inn for a good night’s rest. The lit up nighttime view of the inn took our breath away when we pulled in.

Quilt Barn Tour

Day 3 had us on a mission to see more of the Quilt Barn Tour. This patchwork path of barn quilts runs through Kings County and takes a scenic route through some of the loveliest, and most historic areas of New Brunswick. I highly recommend taking it on in bites. Chart your course over a couple days. Discover stunning painted quilt blocks located on barns, church yards, wineries, markets, artisan shops, and historical stops along the route. These barn quilts are a tribute to local heritage and the long tradition of craftsmanship that has marked this area for centuries. We discovered a few private homes even jumped in on the fun adding their own barn quilts to their properties too. More information on this tour can be found through the link at the end of this article. Some of the stops conveniently land in some delightful businesses. We spent some extra time shopping at: Saltbox Primitives (#567 Hall Road - Saltbox pattern), Bloomfield Treasures Antiques (#310 Route 121 - Cusack Quilt 1900 pattern), and The Barn in Bloomfield (#569 Route 121 - Tree of Life pattern). Do build in time to enjoy these stops and the incredible views along the way.

Grand Bay-Westfield

Our days were full but fun-filled and before we headed back home, we spent some time in the town of Grand Bay-Westfield. We enjoyed a meal at the Grass Roots Grill at the Westfield Golf Club, 8 Golf Club Road. I enjoyed the popular “Freakshow Burger” and Lucie opted for a BLT. Both were very satisfying. We then sought out a few more sculptures in the area as part of the International Sculpture Trail, including “My Town” by James Boyd from New Brunswick (Located on River Valley Drive near Station Street beside the Town clock), “Confidence” by Songul Telek from Turkey (Located at the Veterans Peace Park (Town Cenotaph) at the intersection of Woolastook Drive & River Valley Drive), “Love” by Fetiye Boudevin from Turkey, (located at Unity Park - Intersection of Nerepis Road & Mullen Lane), “River Gate” by Radoslav Sultan from Bulgaria & “Untitled” by Alessio Ranaldi from Italy (both located at the Brundage Point River Centre, 4 Ferry Road).

Brundage Point River Centre

The Brundage Point River Centre warranted a little extra time. It is the town’s gathering place. In addition to fantastic views, this space is available for meetings & celebrations and features a public boat launch, a visitor information centre, and beautiful grounds next to the Westfield Ferry. I strolled the boardwalk, watched the ferry come in, and read the interpretive panels along the waterfront outlining stories that shaped Grand Bay-Westfield’s character.

Kennebecasis River Ferries

We enjoyed several ferry rides from one side of the Kennebecasis River to the other throughout our 3 days exploring the Towns By The Bay. They are quick & easy to access and there is no charge to cross these Government of New Brunswick-operated ferries. There was never more than a few minutes’ wait and it gave us a chance to catch our breath and take in yet another glorious river perspective every time we used one.

Bay-cation

I hope this introduction to Rothesay, Quispamsis, Hampton and Grand Bay-Westfield has inspired you to plan a little Towns By The Bay trip yourself. Stay tuned as I have another “Bay-cation” destination planned this upcoming spring to explore St. Martins (another Town By the Bay). For more information on any of the towns I visited, click on the Discover Saint John & The Towns By The Bay link below.

This post was sponsored by Envision Saint John; however, all thoughts and opinions are my own. Follow Maritimes Maven on FaceBook, Instagram, Pinterest & Twitter. Be the first to receive my latest articles by clicking on the ‘subscribe’ link at the top of this page. PIease share articles you love with your social media community. There’s No Place Like Home!