Antiques & Agritourism Await in Asphodel-Norwood

Part of the “Road Tripping in The Kawarthas” Series

Start & End: Village of Norwood
Distance: 50 KM
Time: 6 hours to multiple days

About Asphodel-Norwood

Tucked into the southern reaches of Peterborough County, where the Trent River winds past sprawling farms and rural hamlets, the Township of Asphodel-Norwood is a place rooted in agriculture, community spirit, and charm of a time gone by. Here, pastoral landscapes meet small-town warmth, offering a glimpse into both the working countryside and the stories that have shaped it over generations.

This is a place where rural life comes alive — from a lively local market and a world-famous fall fair to hands-on visits that bring you up close with animals and the rhythms of wholesome country living. Woven alongside these experiences are timeless treasures waiting to be uncovered in antique shops and roadside stops, where every hand-selected piece carries a storied history that the shop owner cannot wait to share. Together, these elements create a road trip that blends the simple joys of the barnyard, the bounty of the land, and the thrill of discovery.

Ready to hit the road? Whether you’re a first-time visitor, a curious local, or returning to your favourite hidden gems, we’ve crafted a road trip itinerary to guide you through a day full of experiencing the best that Asphodel-Norwood has to offer.

Morning in Norwood

Photography by Kas Photographs

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Norwood Cafe and Diner, where classic homestyle favourites, smoky BBQ lunches, and mouth-watering Indian specialties all share the menu. From there, Norwood’s main street is only steps away. One-of-a-kind vintage finds, hand-poured candles, and boutique home décor items await at Vintage Inspired. Stop in to Legend Celtic & European Apparel & Gifts, where you will find high-quality Irish Merino wool sweaters, Scottish tartan blankets and more.

Grab a sweet treat close-by at Sweethearts Bakery, offering cookie and cake sandwiches, masterfully-decorated sugar cookies, and more! If you are looking for a lunch to take on the road, pick up “the best ‘sammich’ you’ll ever have” at The Knockout.

As you prepare to leave Norwood, first head east on Hwy 7 to continue your antique shopping at The Antique Barn, known for their woodworking pieces, unique selection of vintage lighting, and extravagantly-decorated barn.

Plan your visit on select summer Saturdays to visit the Norwood Market. Browse a variety of handmade goods and farm-fresh produce from local makers and farmers, accompanied by freshly brewed coffee, baked goods, and live music. Forgot your bags at home? Reusable ones are available for purchase!

From Norwood, head south along County Road 45 to Vanderview Farms. Shop the roadside stand for farm-fresh produce, eggs, sunflowers, and more throughout the growing and harvesting season. During the fall, this farm becomes a true autumn adventure with a 11-acre corn maze, pick-your-own pumpkins, decorated haybale displays, children’s activities, and more!

An Afternoon with Animals

Head north on County Road 40 and then west on Peterborough County Road 8 to begin your afternoon at Serenity Lane Animal Sanctuary. Meet over 100 rescued farm animals – from horses and goats to pigs and cows – while enjoying a heartwarming, guided tour that shares their stories and the sanctuary’s mission. Make sure to book your tour in advance!

Further west, The Mane Intent is waiting to help you reconnect with yourself through Equine-Inspired Wellness Experiences. Set on a peaceful historic farm with woodland trails, gentle horses and guided activities help you explore mindfulness, resilience, and meaningful connection.

Your afternoon isn’t complete without a stop at Canada’s Dinosaur Park! Discover photo-realistic animatronic dinosaurs, search the boneyard for fossils, visit the over 200 resident reptiles in their sanctuary, then grab a bite at the food truck, or try your putt on the 18-hole mini-golf course! 

Why not add Heritage Blooms Upick Flower Farm to your afternoon? Located on Hwy 7, just east of Canada’s Dinosaur Park, this boutique flower farm offers a moment to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of flowers, as you pick and create an arrangement of your very own! You will also find the Heritage Cattle Co Farm Shop at this location, selling local beef, honey, maple syrup, and more!

Perhaps a round of golf is your idea of a perfect afternoon! Book your tee time at Oakland Greens Golf & Country Club, a championship Par 71 course with a pro shop and dining just steps away from the green.

Visiting in the cooler months? Head to the farm gate stand at Linlor Farm & Forest, run by a 5th generation maple syrup producing family over an area of 300 acres.

Settle in for a Peaceful Evening In Asphodel-Norwood

After your adventure across Asphodel-Norwood, head back to the village of Norwood for dinner at Papa’s Pizzaland – pick up something delicious and familiar, or try something completely new, like Papa’s Pickle Pizza! Take your dinner to the Norwood Mill Pond and stretch your legs on the Mill Pond Forest Trails after you eat, or journey further to Asphodel Park. This well-maintained local favourite hosts a playground, sand pits, a sheltered accessible picnic area, unique wood carvings to explore, all while sitting on the bank of the Ouse river.

Need more time to explore? Why not plan an overnight stay?

Unwind at Birdsall Beach Resort, a family-run resort and RV park situated on the largest natural beach on Rice Lake. Enjoy a dip in their two private swimming pools or an afternoon on the 9-hole pitch and putt, with anything you may need available in their onsite store. Another great option for your night away is Dreamland Resort, offering a cottage rental or transient RV sites with picturesque views of the Trent-Severn Waterway.

Enrich your journey by planning your visit around a local festival or self-guided tour!

Celebrate Thanksgiving weekend at the world-famous Norwood Fair! For more than 150 years, this beloved tradition has welcomed families with a lively midway, breathtaking helicopter tours, thrilling Xtreme Cowboy competitions, powerful tractor pulls, a dazzling antique car show, and more. Experience rural heritage through shearing demonstrations, agricultural displays, and livestock shows, then enjoy live entertainment, classic fair food, and the festive atmosphere that makes the Norwood Fall Fair a can’t-miss autumn tradition.

Plan your July visit to experience the Norwood Country Jamboree! Four days of live music from over a dozen talented musicians, lively open mic sessions, and onsite camping make this family-friendly festival a perfect mix of fun, tunes, and community—there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy!