Explore the Hills of Headwaters

Caledon & Alton
Heritage Sites

Located on Shaw's Creek, a Credit River tributary, Alton was first settled in 1834 by Thomas Russell and named by American, John Meek, after the town of Alton, Illinois. A c1881 woollen mill is the home of Alton Mill, currently being converted into a regional arts and heritage centre. Located upstream is the Millcroft Inn & Spa, a definitive country retreat worthy of an overnight visit. Stand near the Alton Mill and imagine the day in November 1889 when the weir of an upstream mill gave way, releasing seven acres of water (16 feet deep) downstream and causing Dod's Mill (now the Millcroft Inn) to give way. The flood continued downstream to Algie's Mill (now Alton Mill) where it carried away a three-ton boulder and a one-and-a-half ton iron kettle and caused two deaths before subsiding.

Treat yourself to Ray’s 3rd Generation Bistro Bakery, a long-standing family bakery turned Bistro that uses all-natural ingredients. An excursion through this scenic, artisan's village and the Historic Alton Mill is a must for any day trip in the Hills of Headwaters.

Special Events

• Alton Mill Artists are opening the doors and going outside - to draw and paint. We are also inviting any and all outside artists to set up their easels outside and explore the many creative opportunities to capture the historic beauty of the Alton Mill and surrounding property.
  Work at your leisure throughout the day from 10 - 5.  Price, display and sell your completed pieces at your discretion.
  We invite the general public to watch over your shoulder, ask questions about your work and process and purchase the completed artwork.