The Waddell

Set along the Ganaraska River in Port Hope, The Waddell traces its story back to the mid-19th century, when the town was emerging as an active port and commercial hub. The land was purchased in 1844 by Sheriff Robert Waddell, an Irish immigrant and prominent local figure who quickly moved to develop the site into a multifunctional building.

Completed in 1845, the structure was designed by architect William Thomas, who would go on to shape several landmark buildings across Canada. From the start, the building served multiple purposes, housing a Bank of Montreal agency, retail shops facing Walton Street, and a hotel on the upper floors, reflecting the practical needs of a growing town.

Through the years, the property evolved alongside Port Hope itself. Its central location made it a key part of local life, while architectural features gave it a recognizable presence. Today, after careful restoration, The Waddell continues to operate as a heritage hotel, carrying forward a legacy that began nearly two centuries ago while still reflecting the layered history of the town around it.

The Waddell reflects an early Victorian commercial style, built in 1845 as a three-storey brick structure that anchors the corner of Walton and Mill Streets. Its design feels balanced and purposeful, with symmetrical windows, clean brickwork, and subtle detailing that gives the façade a quiet sense of structure without feeling overly ornate.

One of its most distinctive elements is the rooftop lantern, which adds character to the skyline and ties back to the building’s original form. Features like stone accents and defined window frames bring in just enough detail to break the uniformity, while still keeping the overall look grounded and cohesive.

Inside, the layout still follows its original logic, with spaces arranged in a way that reflects how the building once functioned as a mix of commercial and hotel use. Today, the rooms carry that sense of place forward, each offering a slightly different perspective of the surroundings. Riverside rooms look out toward the Ganaraska River, while streetside rooms connect you to the rhythm of Walton Street below. Terrace rooms, on the other hand, open up to a more private outdoor setting, giving a quieter corner within the historic structure.

Trattoria Gusto

Dining at The Waddell centers around Trattoria Gusto, a restaurant that leans into classic Italian flavors while keeping the setting relaxed and intimate. The menu moves from lighter antipasti to more filling entrées, with a focus on traditional Italian dishes made with fresh ingredients. You will find a mix of pastas, seafood, and meat-based options, along with a thoughtful wine selection that pairs naturally with the food.

It is the kind of place where you can take your time, rather than rush through a meal. What stands out here is the consistency. Trattoria Gusto has received the Diners’ Choice Award from OpenTable, based on feedback from guests who have dined here, which says a lot about both the food and the overall experience.

Opening hours: 11 am - 9:00 pm (Sunday - Thursday); 11 am - 9:30 pm (Friday - Saturday)

Gusto Bar

The Gusto Bar leans just as much on experience as it does on setting. While it is a comfortable place to sit back, what really makes it work is how easy it is to drop in for a quick drink or stay longer without feeling out of place.

Beyond the atmosphere, the bar offers a well-rounded selection of drinks, so you are not limited in choice. You can expect a mix of classic cocktails, wines, and spirits, along with the option to pair your drink with selections from the kitchen. Since it is connected to Trattoria Gusto, the food quality carries through, which adds a lot to the overall experience. It is the combination of good service, solid drink options, and access to the restaurant menu that really stands out.

Cultural and Outdoor Experiences

Set in the heart of Port Hope, The Waddell places you right where the town’s everyday life and seasonal events naturally unfold. This is the kind of place where you do not need a packed itinerary, you can simply step outside and find something to explore. The Ganaraska River runs through the town, creating a scenic backdrop for walks, especially along the waterfront trails that stretch for miles. These paths are easy to follow and give you a mix of nature, historic buildings, and quiet corners to pause.

Not too far away, the shores of Lake Ontario offer a sandy beach and open views that feel especially calm during early mornings or sunset. Downtown, the heritage conservation district adds another layer to the experience, with its preserved architecture, small shops, and local cafés. If you feel like going further, the surrounding countryside opens up to charming villages and scenic driving routes. It brings together different sides of the town in a way that feels complete.

For smaller gatherings or professional setups, The Waddell offers a private boardroom that works well for meetings, conferences, or focused business discussions. The space feels quiet and tucked away, making it easy to have uninterrupted conversations. It includes a fireplace that adds a bit of warmth to the setting, along with audiovisual equipment for presentations or calls. With seating for around 10 to 12 people, it suits intimate groups comfortably. The hotel can also arrange private dinners or small gatherings, making it a flexible option. For detailed rates or booking information, you can reach out directly to the hotel.