Whether you're considering a move to the area or simply want to know more about this historic Oxford County community, Norwich Township is worth a close look. With 11,151 residents (2021 Census) spread across Norwich village and the hamlets of Otterville, Springford, Burgessville, Curries, and Oxford Centre, this township continues to grow while maintaining its small-town character.
Location and Getting Around
Norwich sits south of Woodstock in Oxford County, centred around Norwich village and including the hamlets of Otterville, Springford, Burgessville, Curries, and Oxford Centre.
Oxford Road 59 (formerly Highway 59) is your main route through the area, connecting you north to Woodstock (about 20-25 minutes) and providing quick access to Highway 401/403 for trips to London, Brantford, or the GTA.
Public transit is available through T:GO inter-community service, which connects Woodstock, Ingersoll, Norwich, Otterville, and Tillsonburg. Check current schedules before you travel. For active transportation, portions of the Trans Canada Trail run through Oxford County with access near Norwich, plus local conservation areas and rail trails for walking and cycling.
Schools and Learning
Public Schools (Thames Valley District School Board)
- • Emily Stowe Public School serves JK-8 students right in Norwich village
- • Glendale High School in Tillsonburg serves grades 9-12 for many south Oxford students
Catholic Schools
London District Catholic School Board schools are located in Tillsonburg, Ingersoll, and Woodstock. Check with LDCSB to confirm eligibility and boundaries.
Independent Options
Rehoboth Christian School (K-12) on Main Street East reflects the township's Dutch Reformed heritage and serves many local families.
The Oxford County Library's Norwich Branch offers programs, study space, printing services, and community events.
Healthcare and Emergency Services
You have several options for hospital care nearby:
Tillsonburg District Memorial Hospital
15-20 minutes south with full emergency services
Woodstock Hospital
Modern diagnostic and emergency facilities
Alexandra Hospital
In Ingersoll providing ER and acute care
For everyday healthcare, Norwich Medical Centre hosts family physicians and allied health services.
Emergency services include Norwich Fire Services with four volunteer stations across the township, and policing through the Ontario Provincial Police Oxford Detachment.
Parks, Recreation, and Community Events
The Norwich Arena is home to Norwich Minor Hockey, the Norwich & District Skating Club, and the Norwich Jr. C Merchants (PJHL).
Otterville Park is a highlight, featuring a seasonal outdoor pool and splash pad across the footbridge over Otter Creek. The 10-acre historic park also includes tennis courts, trails, and pavilions.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Norwich Conservation Area and nearby Trans Canada Trail sections offer walking and family cycling opportunities. Golfers can enjoy Otter Creek Golf Club's 18-hole course just outside Otterville.
Community spirit shines during annual events like Canada Day festivities (rotating among communities, hosted in Otterville in 2025) and the popular Norwich T'N'T Tractor Pull, which draws summer crowds and supports local youth through the Optimist Club.
History and Heritage
Norwich is one of Ontario's oldest Quaker settlements. Visit the Norwich Museum & Archives and the Old Tyme Quaker Meeting House to learn about the early 1800s settlement, abolitionist connections, and local industry including early cheese cooperatives.
The area's vibrant Dutch community reflects post-war immigration, visible today in institutions like Rehoboth Christian School and the Netherlands Reformed Congregation on Main Street East.
Norwich is also a stop on the Oxford County Cheese Trail, a self-guided route celebrating the county's dairy legacy with over 30 sites.
Essential Services
Water and wastewater: Oxford County provides municipal systems in serviced settlement areas. Many rural properties use private wells and septic systems, so confirm what's available for any specific address.
Waste collection: Oxford County handles curbside collection. Bag tag prices increase to $2.25 on January 1, 2026. A new Green Bin organics program is planned for 2027 across the county.
Who Lives Here?
Norwich appeals to:
Commuters
To Woodstock, Tillsonburg, or Ingersoll who prefer a small-town pace and larger yards
Families
Who value walkability to Emily Stowe Public School, the arena, splash pad, and library within the village core
Rural Buyers
Seeking acreage with barns or agricultural properties
Norwich Township offers genuine small-town living with strong schools, active recreation, and a welcoming community spirit rooted in both Quaker and Dutch heritage. The combination of village amenities and rural character makes it an attractive option for families and commuters alike.
Ready to Explore Norwich Township?
Whether you're after a village home near Emily Stowe PS or rural acreage with space to grow, I'll tailor a search to your lifestyle and budget.
About Jay Friesen
Jay Friesen is a REALTOR® with the Jennifer Gale Team, serving Woodstock, Tillsonburg, Ingersoll, and Oxford County. With 40 years as an Oxford County resident and 24 years of leadership experience at Toyota, Jay brings unmatched local knowledge and strategic negotiation skills to every transaction.
Learn more about Jay