SOMERSET COMMUNITY
The communities of Somerset and Bridlewood are located in the southwest corner of Calgary. Development in the area commenced in the 1990s. These communities were designed to have plenty of open space for use as school sites, community recreation areas and linear parks. A number of pathways also weave through the area. The east side of the community of Bridlewood is a natural wetland, the Bridlewood Creek Wetland, which features almost two dozen types of birds and an abundance of flora and fauna. Nearby Shawnessey center provides shopping opportunities for residents. Transportation routes include Marquis of Lorne Trail and Macleod Trail. An LRT extension is also planned for the area. There are currently no schools in the community.
The Somerset and Bridlewood community association currently lacks a community center but remains active in programming. The grand historic Shawnessey Barn is used for community dances. The community also enjoys an excellent relationship with nearby Spruce Meadows and often makes use of their facilities for special events such as Canada Day celebrations. The community is also closely tiers with neighboring Midnapore, where children can register for sports. Also in Midnapore is the new South Fish Creek recreation center, which offers a variety of recreational opportunities. Baseball diamonds and a waterpark can also be found in Somerset. The community association also works to address issues such as traffic concerns and is a member of the South Fish Creek Transportation Action Committee.
Community Garden
The Somerset Bridlewood Community Association with sponsors and partner, the City of Calgary has established a Community Garden for the residents of the Somerset Bridlewood Community. The garden is located at 100 Somervale Green which is on the west side opposite the C-Train Line down the pathway from the Somerset C-Train Station. The garden was established in 2010 and built through donations from local businesses, volunteer support and collaboration with the City of Calgary. There are 21 garden beds and plots are available for $25 annually to all current Somerset Bridlewood Community Association members. All proceeds go directly to the Somerset Bridlewood Community Association. Directions to our garden: mysbca.ca/community-garden
Local Attractions
Spruce MeadowsSpruce Meadows is a horse riding facility that features tournaments and various events such as seasonal markets, marathons, pet fairs, kennel club shows, and much more!For more information, go to www.sprucemeadows.com Shannon Park & PathwaysShannon Park & Pathways boasts 17 acres of beautifully wooded green space woven with multi-use pathways, baseball diamonds, soccer fields, tennis courts, and playgrounds. The park is also home to The Barn, Shawnessy’s rustic cozy Community Center.For more information and contact info, visit shawnessy.ca/association/facilities.html
Rotheny Astrophysics ObservatoryLocated only 20 minutes away, the Rothney Astrophysical Observatory is a research facility and a public educational institution. It features research-grade telescopes and acts as a venue for the public to connect with the universe through their public events and Open Houses.For more information, go to www.ucalgary.ca/rao
Little Free LibraryOur community has newly adopted it’s very own LFL, located beside our garden.More information on LFL’s: www.littlefreelibrary.org
Somerset WaterparkCovering seven acres, this park contains three playgrounds, tennis & basketball courts, public washrooms, and its main attraction, the waterpark. It is maintained and operated by the Somerset Residents Association. www.somersetwaterpark.org
Fish Creek Provincial ParkStretching 19 km, this is the largest urban park in Canada! It has an extensive trail network with paved and unpaved trails. It has day-camping facilities, stables, and features an artificial lake (Sikome lake), which allows swimming. The park also has a variety of events and programs.For event listings, programs, and info, go to www.albertaparks.ca/fish-creek
SCHOOLS
- Somerset Public Schools: Calgary Board of Education (CBE)
- Somerset Separate Schools: Catholic Separate School Board
- Somerset French Immersion Schools: Calgary Board of Education (CBE)
Learn More
Are you looking for your first home? Or are you a growing family looking for more space? Great communities provide choice – not only in home size and style, but in amenities and recreation. Somerset’s proximity to retail shopping and transportation means your new home extends well beyond your front door.