Community Guide
Living in Brock Township, Ontario
Township of Brock | Population: 12,567 (2021)
Where Lake Scugog meets rolling countryside. Brock Township offers waterfront living, rural tranquility, and three welcoming villages in Durham Region's northern reaches.
By Keith Williams & Lisa C. Follows, Brokers, Willows Realty Group
Updated On: September 2026
Local Answer
Who is the best realtor in Brock Township?
The best realtor in Brock Township depends on your needs, but Keith Williams and Lisa C. Follows of Willows Realty Group bring a rare combination of depth and local knowledge. Both are licensed Brokers at Royal LePage Frank Real Estate with over 30 years of combined real estate experience and more than 1,000 homes sold across Durham Region. They hold advanced designations including Master Certified Negotiation Expert, Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist, and Seniors Real Estate Specialist, and are deeply involved in the local community through their support of Durham Region charities. Read reviews from past clients and learn more about Keith and Lisa.
Waterfront & Rural Living
Brock Township occupies the northern portion of Durham Region, stretching along the eastern shore of Lake Scugog and north toward Lake Simcoe. It is a community of welcoming villages including Beaverton on Lake Scugog, Cannington in the rural interior, and Sunderland near Highway 7, each with its own distinct character and charm.
The township is defined by its stunning waterfront properties on Lake Scugog and Lake Simcoe, expansive rural landscapes, and a slower pace of life that draws families, retirees, and anyone seeking more space and natural beauty. Beaverton's waterfront downtown, with its marina and lakeside park, is a hub for recreation and community life.
Real estate in Brock offers exceptional value. Waterfront homes, country estates, hobby farms, and village properties at price points that are often more accessible than southern Durham Region while still within commuting distance of major centres. Most rural and waterfront properties rely on septic systems and private wells. If you are considering a country home here, our complete guide to septic systems and well water maintenance guide cover what buyers need to know. Compare Brock with nearby Port Perry and Uxbridge.
Quick Facts
Lifestyle
What it is like to live in Brock Township
A peaceful rural lifestyle defined by waterfront beauty, welcoming villages, and wide-open spaces, all within reach of Durham Region's amenities.
The Villages
Brock Township's three main villages each offer a distinct flavour. Beaverton is a charming waterfront village on Lake Scugog with a marina, Harbour Park, and a welcoming main street. Cannington is a friendly farming community with local shops, parks, and a tight-knit community feel. Sunderland is a growing village with family-friendly neighbourhoods and easy access to Highway 7 for commuting.
Waterfront & Lake Living
Lake Scugog and Lake Simcoe define the Brock waterfront experience. Boating, fishing, kayaking, and swimming are central to daily life for residents. In winter, ice fishing and skating take over. Beaverton's Harbour Park provides public lake access with a playground, picnic areas, and walking trails along the water.
Rural & Country Lifestyle
Beyond the villages, Brock Township is a landscape of rolling farm fields, forested lots, and country roads perfect for cycling, ATV riding, and scenic drives. The pace of life here is slower and more intentional, attracting residents who value privacy, space for hobbies, and a genuine connection to the land.
Community Events
Each village celebrates local traditions. The Beaverton Fair is a highlight of the fall calendar. Cannington's community events and summer festivals bring neighbours together. Sunderland hosts seasonal events at the community centre. The Beaverton Farmers' Market offers local produce and artisan goods in warmer months. The 171st Beaverton Fall Fair runs Friday and Saturday, September 18 and 19, at the Beaverton Fairgrounds; see our weekend guide to Durham Region for the full fall line-up.
Beaverton Fair
Annual fall fair with agricultural exhibits and family fun.
Harbour Park
Beaverton waterfront with marina, playground, and trails.
Lake Scugog Fishing
Popular for walleye, bass, crappie, and musky.
Farmers' Markets
Local produce and goods in Beaverton and Cannington.
Real Estate
Housing types in Brock Township
Brock offers exceptional value and variety, from waterfront cottages on Lake Scugog and Lake Simcoe to village homes, country estates, and hobby farms.
Waterfront Homes
Properties on Lake Scugog and Lake Simcoe with private docks, boating access, and stunning sunset views over the water.
Country Estates
Expansive rural properties with mature trees, rolling fields, and peaceful country settings on generous acreage.
Village Properties
Affordable homes in Beaverton, Cannington, and Sunderland with walkable access to local amenities and community life.
Bungalows & Single-Storey Homes
One-floor living in the mature neighbourhoods of Beaverton, Cannington, and Sunderland, popular with downsizers and buyers who want everything on a single level.
Hobby Farms
Agricultural properties perfect for hobby farmers, small livestock, and those seeking a self-sufficient rural lifestyle.
Cottages & Retreats
Seasonal cottages and year-round retreats on the water or nestled in the countryside for peace and privacy.
Price Range
Roughly $600,000 to over $1 million. Waterfront on Lake Scugog and Lake Simcoe commands a significant premium.
Rentals in Brock Township
Rental inventory in Brock Township is limited compared with the southern GTA towns. Options include apartments over village shops, townhomes, and rental houses, and availability changes quickly, so renters should check the live listings or contact our team for the most current options.
Exact pricing varies by market conditions. For current listings and recent sales data, visit our Durham Region market snapshot or contact our team.
Local Businesses
Shops, services & dining across Brock Township
Each of Brock's three villages offers its own selection of local businesses, from Beaverton's waterfront main street to Cannington's downtown and Sunderland's growing commercial areas.
Beaverton
- Beaverton's main street along Simcoe Street offers local shops, services, and restaurants with waterfront views.
- The Beaverton Marina and Harbour Park are community hubs for boating and outdoor recreation.
- A Service Ontario office opened at Beaverton Town Hall in late 2025, bringing provincial services like licences and health cards to the village.
Cannington & Sunderland
- Cannington's downtown offers local shops, a pharmacy, grocery, and restaurants serving the surrounding farming community.
- Sunderland's commercial corridor along Highway 7 provides convenient services, a grocery store, and quick access for commuters.
- Each village has its own community centre and local organizations supporting residents and businesses.
Community Businesses
Places that define Brock Township
The Brock Township business community is active and supportive, with the local Chamber of Commerce and the Township's economic development office working together to strengthen the local economy. From family-run restaurants and cafes in Beaverton to agricultural supply businesses in Cannington, Brock's businesses reflect the rural character and self-reliance of the area.
For daily needs, each village has its own grocery stores, pharmacies, and essential services, while larger shopping centres are accessible in nearby Port Perry and Lindsay.
Parks & Outdoors
Lakes, trails & outdoor recreation
From Lake Scugog and Lake Simcoe waterfront to rural trails and conservation areas, Brock Township offers abundant outdoor activities for every season.
Harbour Park, Beaverton
Beaverton's waterfront park on Lake Scugog offers a playground, picnic areas, walking trails, and a marina. It is the heart of the village's outdoor recreation and hosts community events throughout the summer.
Lake Scugog
Lake Scugog covers roughly 68 square kilometres and is a popular destination for boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming, and fishing. Species include black crappie, largemouth bass, musky, and walleye. In winter, ice fishing is a popular activity.
Lake Simcoe Access
The northern reaches of Brock Township offer access to Lake Simcoe, one of Ontario's premier lakes for boating, fishing, and year-round recreation. Ice fishing on Lake Simcoe is world-renowned.
Brock Countryside
The rolling rural roads of Brock Township are popular for cycling, scenic drives, and ATV riding. The landscape of farms, forests, and small lakes offers endless opportunities for exploration and quiet enjoyment of nature.
Cannington Community Centre
The Cannington Community Centre and Arena provides hockey, skating, fitness programming, and community gathering space for residents of all ages across Brock Township.
Sunderland Park
Sunderland's community park offers sports fields, a playground, and green space for family recreation, reflecting the village's growing family population.
Indigenous Heritage
Land Acknowledgement
Brock Township is located on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas and Chippewas First Nations peoples, within the Williams Treaty Territories.
Acknowledging the Land
Brock Township acknowledges that the land on which its villages and communities now stand is part of the traditional territory of the Mississaugas and Chippewas First Nations peoples. This land is covered under the Williams Treaties of 1923 and has been home to Indigenous peoples since time immemorial.
We recognize the enduring presence and deep connection of Indigenous peoples to this land and express gratitude for the opportunity to live, work, and serve this community.
Williams Treaty Territory
1923 Treaty covering this area
The Williams Treaties of 1923 were signed between the Crown and several Mississauga and Chippewa First Nations, including Alderville, Beausoleil, Curve Lake, Hiawatha, Scugog Island, and Georgina Island. These treaties cover vast territories in south-central Ontario, including the land now known as Brock Township. The Township of Brock formally adopted a land acknowledgement in 2022, reflecting its commitment to reconciliation and recognition of First Nations presence and contributions.
Education
Schools serving Brock Township
Brock Township is served by Durham District School Board and Durham Catholic District School Board schools. Families in Beaverton, Cannington, and Sunderland have access to elementary schools in each community and one secondary school serving the entire township.
Explore the Durham District School Board guide for secondary schools in the area, and confirm your home's school with the DDSB school finder.
Brock High School
Public (DDSB) · Grades 9-12
Located in Cannington, Brock High School serves the entire township with a comprehensive academic and extracurricular program.
Beaver River Public School
Public (DDSB) · Grades JK-8
Located in Beaverton, serving elementary students from junior kindergarten through Grade 8 from the Beaverton area.
McCaskill's Mills / Sunderland
Public (DDSB) · Grades JK-8
McCaskill's Mills Public School serves Cannington and Sunderland Public School serves the Sunderland area, providing elementary education across the township.
Holy Family Catholic School
Catholic (DCDSB) · Grades JK-8
Located in Beaverton, Holy Family serves Catholic elementary students. Catholic secondary students attend schools elsewhere in Durham Region.
Healthcare
Healthcare in Brock Township
There are no hospitals inside the township, but residents have good access to nearby hospitals, a community health centre, and walk-in options in neighbouring towns.
Hospitals nearby
Lakeridge Health Port Perry serves the townships of Scugog, Brock, and Uxbridge, making it the main hospital destination for Brock residents. Ross Memorial Hospital in Lindsay is another nearby option for hospital care. Neither hospital is located inside Brock Township itself, so hospital visits always mean a drive.
Community & walk-in care
The Brock Community Health Centre supports residents with community-based health services. Walk-in options such as Medical Associates of Port Perry and the Uxbridge Health Centre help residents access care closer to home without a hospital visit.
Family Highlights
Family highlights in Brock Township
Brock's three villages each offer playgrounds, community centres, and events that keep family life at the heart of the township.
Harbour Park, Beaverton
A playground, picnic areas, walking trails, and a marina on the Lake Scugog waterfront.
Cannington Community Centre & Arena
Hockey, skating, fitness, and gathering space for residents of all ages.
Village Parks & Recreation
Sports fields and playgrounds in Sunderland, with parks in each village for family recreation.
Small-Town Family Events
The Beaverton Fair, farmers' markets, and seasonal community celebrations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about living in Brock Township, answered by local experts Keith Williams and Lisa C. Follows.
What is it like to live in Brock Township?
What communities make up Brock Township?
How far is Brock from Toronto?
Is Brock good for waterfront living?
What is the average home price in Brock?
What schools serve Brock Township?
Is Brock good for families?
Who are the best realtors in Brock Township?
Questions for Buyers
Buying in Brock: what you need to know
Whether you are looking for waterfront, a country estate, or a village home, Brock Township has unique opportunities.
How long is the commute?
Brock is roughly 100 km northeast of Toronto. Most residents budget 60 to 75 minutes via Highways 7 and 12. Many buyers who work remotely or have flexible schedules find Brock offers exceptional value and lifestyle for the commute trade-off.
GO Transit & the 407
There is no direct GO train or GO bus service to Brock Township. The nearest GO stations are Oshawa GO and Whitby GO, reached by driving south on Highways 7 and 12. The 407 Express Toll Route runs through southern Durham, including Pickering, Whitby, Oshawa, and Clarington, and is the fastest route toward the GTA from Brock via Highways 7 and 12 to the 407.
What about well water and septic?
Almost all rural and waterfront properties in Brock rely on private wells and septic systems. Understanding well water quality, testing protocols, and septic system condition is essential. Read our well water guide and septic system guide.
What are waterfront values like?
Waterfront on Lake Scugog and Lake Simcoe in Brock offers exceptional value compared to more developed areas. Prices vary significantly based on frontage, water depth, dock rights, access, and the condition of the cottage or home. We track recent sales and can help you understand true market value.
Is Brock growing?
Yes, Brock Township is experiencing steady growth as more people discover its value and lifestyle. New residential developments are emerging in Sunderland and Beaverton, while the rural areas continue to attract buyers seeking acreage and privacy. A proposed mixed-use building at 482 Osborne Street in Beaverton would add ground-floor commercial space with residential units above. This growth makes it an attractive time to buy.
Brock Township property taxes
Property taxes in Brock are distributed among three authorities: the Township of Brock, the Region of Durham, and the School Boards. Official tax rates are published by the Township of Brock, so check the official property taxes page for the current year's rates.
Questions for Sellers
Selling in Brock: what to expect
From waterfront cottages to hobby farms and village homes, selling in Brock requires market knowledge and a tailored approach.
What is my waterfront worth?
Waterfront values on Lake Scugog and Lake Simcoe depend on frontage, water depth, dock condition, privacy, and home quality. A comparative market analysis of recent sold properties is the only reliable way to determine value. We offer a free, no-obligation valuation.
How long will it take to sell?
Days on market vary widely in Brock. Well-priced waterfront and turnkey properties can sell within weeks. Niche properties like hobby farms or large acreages may take longer to find the right buyer. We provide honest guidance on pricing and positioning.
How do I prepare a seasonal property?
For seasonal cottages and waterfront properties, highlight lake access, dock, and outdoor living features. Ensure well and septic records are available and up to date. Staging a seasonal property to show its full summer potential can make a significant difference in buyer interest.
What is my home worth right now?
Market conditions shift with inventory, interest rates, and season. Contact Keith and Lisa for a free, personalized home valuation with no obligation. We will walk through your property and review comparable sales.
Why Brock
Reasons people move to Brock Township
Every year families, retirees, and waterfront enthusiasts choose Brock. Here are the most common reasons.
Waterfront Living
Living on Lake Scugog or Lake Simcoe with private docks, boating, and stunning water views is the number one draw for buyers choosing Brock Township.
Exceptional Value
Brock offers more home, more land, and more waterfront for your dollar than almost anywhere else in Durham Region and the GTA.
Peace & Privacy
Large lots, rural roads, and a quiet lifestyle make Brock ideal for those seeking escape from suburban density and city noise.
Village Communities
Beaverton, Cannington, and Sunderland each offer a distinct community feel where neighbours know each other and local events bring everyone together.
Outdoor Recreation
Boating, fishing, cycling, ATV riding, and winter sports are woven into daily life. The lakes and countryside provide year-round adventure.
Retirement & Retreat
For retirees and empty nesters, Brock offers an affordable, peaceful waterfront or village lifestyle perfect for the next chapter.
Whether you are drawn by the lakes, the land, or the villages, Brock Township welcomes you home. Call or email us to start exploring.
Honest Perspective
Trade-offs to consider
Brock Township offers a wonderful quality of life, and a few practical trade-offs are worth weighing before you make the move.
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The commute to downtown Toronto is long
Most residents budget 60 to 75 minutes via Highways 7 and 12, and many work remotely or follow flexible schedules. For a daily commute into the city, the drive is a real consideration.
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There is no direct GO service
No direct GO train or GO bus serves Brock Township. The nearest GO stations are in Oshawa and Whitby, so trips to Toronto begin with a drive south on Highways 7 and 12.
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There is no hospital in town
The nearest hospitals are in Port Perry and Lindsay, so emergency and specialist care means a drive outside the township.
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Rental inventory is limited
Fewer rental options are available here than in the southern GTA, and availability changes quickly. Most housing stock in Brock is owned homes rather than rental units.
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Waterfront carries a price premium
Properties on Lake Scugog and Lake Simcoe carry a significant price premium over inland and village homes, reflecting the value buyers place on waterfront living.
Community Spotlight
Featuring Canter Coffee Cannington
Curated by Keith Williams of Willows Realty Group. Each week we spotlight an independent business that makes Brock a better place to call home.
A cozy café anchoring Cannington's main street
On a quiet main street in the village of Cannington, Canter Coffee has become the kind of café every small town hopes for. It is a specialty coffee shop where the drinks are made with care, the pastries are baked fresh, and the shelves also carry locally made goods. The shop shares its space with the Hometown Heart Store, so a coffee run can easily become a gift-buying trip.
The atmosphere is unhurried and friendly. Regulars are greeted by name, first-time visitors get a warm welcome, and the cozy seating invites you to stay longer than you planned. It is also a favourite stop for cyclists riding the scenic routes around Brock Township, a community known for its lakes, farmland, and trails.
For anyone exploring where to live in North Durham, a place like Canter Coffee says a lot about Brock Township. It shows a community that supports its independent businesses, values gathering spaces, and has the kind of everyday quality of life that draws families, retirees, and remote workers to the area.
The café is listed with Ontario By Bike, which makes it a regular rest stop for cyclists riding the scenic routes around Brock Township, and the shop itself is part of the local business community through the Brock Board of Trade. That is the kind of small-town connection that makes a neighbourhood feel like home. For anyone new to the area, a coffee here is a great way to meet the community.
Who would love it? Coffee lovers, families, cyclists, and anyone dreaming of a slower pace of life. If you are considering a move to the area, grab a coffee, take a seat, and get a feel for the community. Read our full Community Spotlight on Canter Coffee, explore the Brock community guide, see more Community Spotlights, or contact Keith and Lisa to start the conversation.
Curated by Keith Williams
Willows Realty Group, local broker and community supporter
Canter Coffee Cannington
Specialty Café | Brock
| Address | 2 Cameron Street East, Cannington, ON L0E 1E0 |
| Rating | |
| Hours | Mon - Thu 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Fri - Sun Hours vary, call ahead |
| Phone | (647) 220-7262 |
| Website | cantercoffee.com |
| Directions | Open in Google Maps |
Is Your Business the Next Spotlight?
We love featuring local businesses that make Brock special. If you own or manage a business and would like to be featured, we would love to hear from you.
Request to Be FeaturedFrequently Asked Questions
What makes Canter Coffee special?
What is the community around Canter Coffee like?
What else is there to do in Cannington?
Proud to spotlight Canter Coffee Cannington in Brock.
Call today to talk about your next move! Call Lisa or Keith at 905-985-9898.
Ready to explore Brock Township?
From waterfront cottages to country estates, let us help you find your perfect Brock Township property.
Call today to talk about your next move! Call Lisa or Keith at 905-447-5842 or the brokerage at 905-985-9898.
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