A Day in Hanwell with the Ignite Marketing Team
Looking for new fun activities to do in your spare time? Perhaps you’re wondering what else to do beyond your regular weekend routine. I got you! Let me take you to the Rural Community of Hanwell, where Ashleigh and I from the Ignite Marketing Team spent a day exploring local gems: from a peaceful walk through nature trails to a growing business, and a beloved diner that warmed our spirits.
We kicked off our Friday morning with a drive to Hanwell Recreational Park, where we took a mind-clearing walk through the nature trails. Although the unpredictable spring weather earlier in the week had us wondering if the trails would be more of an “adventure hike” than a “scenic stroll”, we were up for the challenge. There were still some icy patches, but we were ready to brave the path and see how far it could take us.
Green foliage surrounding the walking trails at Hanwell Recreational Park
As an outdoorsy guy myself, I had a blast hearing the birds chirping and seeing the squirrels run and jump around, all while having fun, thoughtful conversations about life along the way. We ended up taking the yellow trail, which led us through a picnic shelter and toward the beautiful wetlands, where we paused to take in the fresh air.
Giant Jenga stop at Hanwell Recreational Park
If you ask me what the most surprising thing about the trail was, I’d say: the not-so-fun-sized Jenga! It was fun to stop and play for a bit. However, while we would have loved to see what other sights the Hanwell Park trails could offer, Ashleigh and I had another exciting stop planned.
Shifting gears from the green scenery to a fast-growing local business, our next destination was one of Hanwell’s hidden gems. First Light Distillery brings the perfect combination of flavour and time well spent. Meeting Kevin and Jen, the masterminds behind the distillery that’s making waves, and their team, was nothing short of inspiring. Between showing us their tasting room and warehouse, the stories of how the magic came to be had both Ashleigh and me intrigued...
First Light Distillery warehouse at 73 Fairway Drive
Distilling equipment at First Light: the copper column on the left is used for rum, while the column on the right is used to distill vodka and gin.
How does a couple with no prior experience in the world of spirits go on to build an up-and-coming brand on the East Coast? With passion and dedication for the craft. Hearing how they began experimenting with different flavours using locally sourced ingredients and slowly perfecting their distilling technique over time got us both wondering where they are aiming for next.
Without a doubt, the team at First Light are shooting for the stars! With the successful opening of their micro-distillery, The Cove, last year and their recent sales expansion into Prince Edward Island, they are on track to solidify their place in the Atlantic market... and beyond.
Currently, you can find the First Light team crafting and packaging all of their customer-favourite spirits and vodka sodas in-house. They also like using their space to host fun events like Drag Bingo, cocktail classes on weekends, and even weddings! So, if you’re looking for a big venue to host your next celebration, I'd recommend sending them a message.
Pictured (from left to right): Rey, Ashleigh, Jen, Kevin
Porter’s Diner on Hanwell Road
As the day wound down, Ashleigh and I found ourselves in need of some serious recharging. We finished off our adventure with a visit to the local favourite, Porter’s Diner, home of the bottomless fries. By the end of our meal, we were full in both heart and belly. Enjoying some home-cooked classics like the BLT sandwich and a fully loaded poutine gave us the perfect boost to reflect on everything Hanwell has to offer.
We are excited to continue venturing into our local communities, and if Hanwell is any indication of what’s to come, we’re in for more inspiring people, beautiful spaces, and, of course, great food. Stay tuned for more local spotlights as we continue exploring all that our region has to offer!