Our story
THE BRIARS RESORT & SPA
The Briars is a heritage Ontario lakeside resort, a refuge of relaxation and genuine hospitality amidst acres of lush lawns, gardens and towering trees. The surrounding woodlands, rivers and Lake Simcoe shoreline provide habitat for a variety of wildlife, making it an icon of Ontario's Green Belt.
A Heritage Estate on the Shores of Lake Simcoe
Nestled along the tranquil shores of Lake Simcoe, The Briars Resort & Spa is more than a resort. It is a living piece of Ontario history.
The story of The Briars began in 1840, when British Royal Navy Captain William Bourchier built a Regency-style manor house overlooking the lake. Inspired by the home of friends in St. Helena, Captain Bourchier named the estate "The Briars", a name that has endured for nearly two centuries.
Although the Captain passed away only four years later, the estate's legacy continued. In the late 1870s, the property was acquired by Dr. Frank Sibbald, whose vision transformed it into a distinguished country estate. He expanded the Manor House and added many of the property's landmark structures, including a coach house, stables, gatehouse, championship cattle barn, and the unique Peacock House. Remarkably, these historic buildings still stand today, preserving the architectural character and heritage that make The Briars unlike any other destination in Ontario.
Today, the former cattle barn serves as the renowned Red Barn Theatre, Canada's oldest summer theatre, while the Peacock House remains the only historic structure of its kind in Ontario.
A Place Where History Lives
Unlike many modern resorts, The Briars has always prioritized preservation over reinvention.
As the estate evolved through the decades, additions were made with careful respect for the property's original character. One guest wing was named in honour of celebrated Canadian humorist Stephen Leacock, who grew up nearby and frequently visited the estate. His legacy remains woven into the fabric of the region, and he rests just a short distance from the resort grounds.
Walking through The Briars today, guests experience a rare blend of history, nature, and hospitality. From heritage architecture and mature gardens to sweeping waterfront views and century-old trees, every corner of the property tells a story.
Briars Accommodations
One of the most distinctive aspects of The Briars is the diversity and character of its accommodations.
With over 50 guestrooms and 13 unique cottages, accommodating more than 200 guests, The Briars offers a collection of inn rooms, lakefront cottages, woodland retreats, private lodges, and heritage Manor House suites, each providing a unique connection to the estate and its natural surroundings.
Perched above the shores of Lake Simcoe, our lakefront cottages offer breathtaking waterfront views, where guests awaken to endless blue horizons and spectacular sunsets. For those seeking a more secluded escape, our woodland cottages are nestled among mature trees alongside the golf course, offering tranquility, privacy, and a true connection to nature.
Whether you're planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, a golf retreat, or a special celebration, The Briars offers accommodations to suit every occasion. Guests can choose from charming one, two, three, five, seven, and ten-bedroom cottages, each designed to bring family and friends together in comfort and style.
For a truly authentic heritage experience, the historic Manor House features six elegantly appointed guest rooms, showcasing period furnishings, timeless architecture, and the enduring charm of a nineteenth-century country estate.
Whether lakeside, forest-side, or within the Manor House itself, every stay at The Briars reflects the property's unique character and the enduring spirit of country estate hospitality.
A Century of Golf Tradition
Golf has been part of The Briars experience for over a century.
Established in 1922, The Briars Golf Club is a rare example of classic Canadian golf course architecture. The original nine holes were designed by legendary Canadian golf architect Stanley Thompson, whose work includes some of the country's most celebrated courses. In the 1970s, renowned architect Robbie Robinson expanded the course with a second nine while carefully preserving Thompson's design philosophy and natural character.
Today, the course remains a timeless golfing experience defined by narrow fairways, subtly undulating greens, and mature landscapes that have evolved over generations. Free from residential development, the course retains its original natural beauty, allowing golfers to enjoy uninterrupted views of towering trees and rolling terrain.
Perhaps the most memorable feature of The Briars Golf Club is its collection of ancient trees, many of which have stood for generations. Their twisting branches and dramatic silhouettes create a landscape unlike any other, giving the course a distinctive and unforgettable character.
Although modest in length, the course rewards strategy, precision, and thoughtful shot-making, offering an enjoyable challenge for golfers of all skill levels.
As a private club with exclusive playing privileges extended to resort guests, The Briars presents a unique partnership between country club tradition and resort hospitality, creating an experience rarely found elsewhere in Ontario.
Briars Golf Course: www.briarsgolf.com
Signature Briars Experiences
For generations, guests have come to The Briars to experience a slower pace of life and a deeper connection to nature, family, and tradition.
Lakeside Escapes
Enjoy breathtaking Lake Simcoe sunsets, peaceful shoreline walks, and the simple pleasure of being surrounded by nature.
Championship Golf
Experience our scenic 18-hole golf course, where rolling fairways and mature landscapes provide one of Ontario's most memorable resort golf experiences.
Historic Manor House Living
Stay in a setting where heritage architecture, timeless elegance, and country estate hospitality create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else.
Dining & Gathering
Share memorable meals with family and friends while enjoying the warm, welcoming spirit that has defined The Briars for generations.
Seasonal Traditions
From summer lakeside adventures and autumn golf retreats to Thanksgiving celebrations and festive holiday escapes, every season brings new opportunities to create lasting memories.
Wellness & Relaxation
For decades, The Briars has been known as a place of renewal, offering guests a peaceful environment to unwind, reconnect, and recharge.
A New Chapter
Today, The Briars is entering an exciting new era.
While honoring nearly 200 years of heritage, we are thoughtfully enhancing accommodations, dining experiences, outdoor recreation, and guest amenities to meet the expectations of modern travelers while preserving the spirit of the estate.
The result is a destination where history and hospitality come together. A place where generations of memories continue to be made. A place where guests can step away from the ordinary and discover something increasingly rare:
Authenticity. Connection. Tradition.
Welcome to The Briars.
Where Heritage Meets Renewal.
Welcome to Another World.
