Doors Open Comes to Newboro & Rideau Lakes

Kilborn’s on the Rideau is a charming and eclectic store located in Newboro, Ontario, on the banks of the scenic Rideau Canal. It's a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a truly unique shopping experience that combines the rustic charm of the area with a high-end selection of goods. Kilborn’s spans multiple floors and is divided into distinct sections that include clothing, shoes, gourmet food, home decor, kitchenware, and gifts, as well as a wide range of Canadian-made products. Each room has its own personality, with curated displays that make the shopping experience feel like a treasure hunt. The clothing section includes stylish pieces for men, women, and children, ranging from casual wear to more formal options. The home decor section offers a mix of modern and rustic items, perfect for cottage or home settings, while the gourmet food section provides an array of specialty foods, sauces, and treats, including local and Canadian options. Kilborn’s also has a friendly, welcoming staff and cozy atmosphere, making it easy to spend hours exploring its unique offerings.

 Just steps from Stone Manor Studios, the Newboro Soap Company is a treasure trove for anyone who loves handcrafted quality and local charm. Housed in a historic building on Newboro’s main street, the shop offers a wide selection of beautifully made soaps, lotions, and bath products—all created with care using natural ingredients. Beyond bath essentials, you’ll also discover unique gifts and local goods that reflect the character of the Rideau Lakes. Whether you’re treating yourself or picking up something special to take home, a visit to Newboro Soap Company is always worth the stop. 

If you’re looking to get out on the water, Pattison’s Paddles makes it wonderfully simple. This sweet, locally run paddleboard rental company is known for its warm hospitality and ease—Karen will even bring your board and paddle right to your door. It’s the perfect way to explore the beauty of the Rideau Lakes at your own pace, whether you’re gliding across calm morning waters or setting out for an afternoon adventure. With Pattison’s, stepping onto the lake becomes effortless, inviting, and unforgettable. 

 Just outside Newboro, Stealing the Bloom Farm is a place overflowing with life, colour, and connection. Known for its vibrant flowers and fresh, seasonal vegetables, the farm is also home to friendly animals that visitors can hold and pet—an experience that delights children and adults alike. Guided tours give you the chance to see sustainable and organic farming practices in action, offering insight into how food and flowers are grown with care for the land. At Stone Manor Studios, we often bring the bounty of Stealing the Bloom into our retreats, from fresh vegetables on the table to flowers in our creative spaces, making the farm a true partner in nourishing both art and life. 

No visit to Newboro is complete without experiencing the Rideau Canal, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most remarkable engineering feats of the 19th century. Stretching from Kingston to Ottawa, the canal continues to welcome boaters, paddlers, and visitors from around the world, offering a glimpse into Canada’s past alongside stunning natural beauty.

Right here in Newboro, the Blockhouse stands as a proud reminder of the canal’s history. Built in 1832 as part of the canal’s defensive system, the Blockhouse is one of the few remaining stone fortifications of its kind. Today it opens its doors to visitors, sharing stories of soldiers, settlers, and the role the canal played in shaping the community. Exploring the canal and the Blockhouse is like stepping back in time—an essential stop for anyone wanting to truly understand the heritage of Newboro and the Rideau Lakes.