Hidden gems revealed at Doors Open

After waiting in line for a half hour to go on what can only be described as a micro-tour of the original flat iron building on the Esplanade, I opted to check out a less 'tourist hot spot' type location participating in this year's Doors Open weekend.

A subway ride up to St. George station + a short walk to bpNichol Lane (off Huron St) lead me to Coach House Press - a real T.O. gem and a better example of what Doors Open is really about.

Coach House Press is small but explorable and just, well, whimsical. (You heard me)

Unlike many other locations that open up to the public this weekend with strict tours of semi-private areas, the folks at Coach House open their doors and give it all up to the inquisitive visitors who wander through the doors.

Upon entry, I received a booklet with information, anecdotes, and photos of the various areas within the press house and granted full permission to check out every nook and crannie of the building. Not that there wasn't guidance... plenty of veterans and enthusiastic staff were around demonstrating machinery and telling stories of the buildling's history.

On the main floor, the press area contains antique linotype machines that sit across from more modern press machinery of all sorts. Most pieces are not only functional, but functioning .

Elsewhere, the coffee room, office, and very honest bathroom show off the behind-the-scenes side of this little press company. (Mind your step on the steep staircase!)

If you're wondering, Coach House will be open to visitors again tomorrow until 4pm. Don't miss out.

Location:
401 Huron Street on bpNichol Lane
(St. George subway)