These Canadian Filming Locations Help Create Port Haven In Hallmark’s ‘The Way Home’

There’s something alluring about a show that makes viewers want to hop on a plane just to see where the magic is made. Hallmark Channel’s “The Way Home” is one of those great releases. The show, which premiered in 2023 to a warm reception, has become a fan favorite. It stars Chyler Leigh, Sadie Laflamme-Snow and Andie MacDowell in a setting filled with quiet roads, bright skies and moody waterfronts. The backdrop and setting of this series is incredibly important to the narrative, so its visual realism adds an authentic feel. With its mysterious tone, which is rooted in small-town aesthetics, viewers may be wondering where “The Way Home” filming locations are? Here’s what we know about the locales that could become a kind of pilgrimage for fans. 

Where Is Port Haven In ‘The Way Home’?

On screen, the fictional town of Port Haven in New Brunswick feels like a charming coastal Atlantic Canadian community –complete with winding roads, seaside views and semi-rural character. According to Entertainment Now, “The Way Home” wasn’t actually filmed in New Brunswick, and Port Haven itself doesn’t exist in real life.

Instead, the production pieced together the look of Port Haven using several locations in Ontario. One of the most essential stand-in towns was Port Perry, Ontario, which served as a major filming site. Scenes were also filmed in areas like Uxbridge and other spots around the Greater Toronto Area, per In Durham. The way the Hallmark Channel original pieces together these locations to create a seamless Landry family home gives Port Haven a layered realism that is anchored in a unique visual identity.

Tips For Traveling Through Ontario’s Port Perry

Key Scenes: According to DurhamRegion.com, “The Way Home” was filmed in Ontario, Canada, with a large portion of the production taking place in the town of Port Perry. Both interior and exterior scenes were shot here in 2022.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Port Perry really depends on what you’re after. If you enjoy the beauty of changing leaves with mild weather and smaller crowds, then September to October is ideal. On the other hand, if you prefer warm, sunny days and a lively atmosphere, the summer months (June to August) are the most popular.

Transportation Options: Transportation around Port Perry, Ontario, heavily relies on the Durham Region Transit (DRT) buses. However, travelers can also opt for taxis or shuttles for a more convenient experience.  

As locals may know, Port Perry is an underrated town just northeast of Toronto. It has a charming downtown area, historic architecture and close proximity to water. All of these features make it a shoe-in for the fictional setting of Port Haven. More specifically, as The Township of Scugog reports, Queen Street and Palmer Park Dock were notable filming locations for season two. 

The crew returned and set up there in late September 2023, but production did not end until October. There was also some filming activity nearby Latcham Center, Water Street and Old Rail Lane streets. Despite some minor traffic disturbances, local businesses did not actually shut down during production. Even now, the fourth season of “The Way Home” is being filmed in Ontario, as reported by Hollywood North Buzz. So fans may recognize some very real local hotspots during their visit. 

Things to Do: Although Port Perry is relatively rural, there are still some things to do in the area. The Willowtree Farm is a popular farmer’s market, but travelers can also check out ​​Palmer Park for some connection with nature. 

Where to Eat: For an authentic Port Perry experience, the Marwan’s Global Bistro is a relatively affordable and casual eatery. Alternatively, the Pickles & Olives Bistro is a more upscale restaurant with a warm atmosphere. 

Where to Stay: Accommodations around Port Perry are quaint and charming, with a distinct atmosphere. The Piano Cafe and George Stanley Inn (aka the Piano Inn and Cafe) and Great Blue Heron Hotel are two great options due to their scenic backdrops and proximity to popular attractions. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Port Haven a real place in Canada?

No, it is entirely fictional, as Hidden Remote reports. However, the show does showcase some very real Ontario towns, which ultimately create a cohesive small-town world. 

Is the house in “The Way Home” the same as “Anne with an E”?

According to Dexerto, both “The Way Home” and “Anne with an E” utilized the same Ontario house as a filming location.

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