Bordering the eastern edge of the city of London and accessible from Hwy 401, is the versatile Municipality of Thames Centre. If it’s camping, fishing, swimming, canoeing, hiking or bird watching you are looking for, this area has an array of marvelous options. Lake Whittaker, part of the Kettle Creek Conservation area, is a 10 hectare lake formed during the ice age. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts in search of camping, hiking trails and fishing. There is the Dorchester swamp, a provincially designated wetland. This environmentally protected area of natural and scientific interest is one of the few Carolinian forests in Ontario. Its’ walking trails allow visitors to this cultural landmark to catch a glimpse of rare birds living within the lush vegetation. The Mill Pond is alive with blossoming foliage and flocks of geese. The pond has natural paths, wooden walkways, bridges and a lookout offering a panoramic view of this fertile oasis. There is even evidence its banks were once the site of grist and saw mills. With its water spilling into the Thames River it was ideal for transporting timber to the United States. Thames Centre is the Middlesex municipality with the strongest connection to water. But if leisure activities are more your style, there are artisans, antiques, craft shops and a variety of dining options. The local agricultural fairs feature horse shows. There are games and events for the whole family, including the often sought after homemade baked goods great country fairs are renown for. Thames Centre offers you apple orchards with attractions for children, as well as Christmas tree farms where you can enjoy a sleigh ride topped off with a hot chocolate. All are wonderful activities that entice families to this area annually. People from miles around also flock here for the step and fiddle competition, international agricultural auction house and famous slo-pitch ballpark.