Dwell360 Guide: Welcome to West Newton
As one of Newton’s oldest villages, West Newton offers a variety of tree-lined neighborhoods and impressive estates anchored by the stores and restaurants in West Newton Square. It’s even home to Dwell360’s own Sandra Siciliano!
Brief History
In 1720, there were only 3 houses within a mile of West Newton Square! Before the early 1800s, the village only had a small group of buildings on Washington Street (originally called Natick Road), along with a couple farms, making agriculture the main occupation. A lot of the village was made up of forest, as well as swamps and marshes that reached the Charles. West Parish (the second church in Newton) was built in the village in 1764, which made it the religious center of the northwestern part of Newton. Controversy arose when they drew boundaries for the parish, which sparked a rivalry between Newton Centre (the original religious center for all of Newton) and West Newton, and this rivalry lasted into the early 1800s. In 1848, the town hall was moved from Newton Centre to West Newton, which is where it stayed until the 1930s. The village was also quickly realized as a prime location for transportation access, and it became a stop on the Boston & Worcester Railroad in 1834, allowing people to work in Boston and live in the suburbs. Through the mid 1800s, more and more houses were built throughout the village. Wealthier Boston families built big homes in West Newton Hill, while locals stayed near the beloved village center and the area near River Street. West Newton was also known for its elite private schools, a prominent one being the West Newton English and Classical School. Since this time, the village has continued to grow and improve into the large and vibrant community we know and love today.
Our Favorite Things to Do
Visit The Local for a fun meal with friends or family.
The Local: If you’re looking familiar food with a creative twist, definitely check out The Local. Try the honey pesto grilled cheese, or maybe the fig and prosciutto pizza.
The Paper Mouse: Owned and run by a husband and wife team, The Paper Mouse displays an array of unique stationary, writing utensils, trinkets, and more. It’s the perfect place to find a special gift for someone, or to treat yourself.
Paddy’s Public House: With the atmosphere of a true Irish pub, Paddy’s offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Oh, and their food is great, too! From soups to pizzas to shepherd’s pie, you’ll find something to enjoy at Paddy’s.
Catch a special film at the West Newton Cinema.
West Newton Cinema: Grab some popcorn and take a seat to watch the newest movies or a unique film at the West Newton Cinema. It’s been family owned since 1976, and is the perfect place for an outing.
Blue Ribbon: Enjoy some finger-lickin’ barbecue without having to fire up the grill. Have your next event catered, or treat yourself to a meal for lunch or dinner. Blue Ribbon is one of our favorite places to get takeout for an office birthday or celebration!
Artitudes: Packed with beautiful handmade works of art, jewelry, and more from fine artists, Artitudes is the perfect place to find gifts for any occasion. Even if you don’t plan on making a purchase, it’s worth a visit just to see the incredible pieces!
Shogun Japanese Restaurant: This restaurant offers up delicious sushi rolls along with a variety of other apps and entrees. Be sure to stop by for some top-notch Japanese cuisine.
Child with Calla Lily Leaves fountain was installed at the intersection of Chestnut, Highland, and Valentine Streets in 1903 in memory of Catherine Lambert.
Sweet Tomatoes: This is definitely a spot you can’t miss if you’re looking for a great slice of pizza! They also make some tasty sandwiches as well. West Newton is the second location of Sweet Tomatoes that Hedy Jarras and her husband, Brian Canty, opened in 2003, and it’s been thriving ever since.
Hipstitch: Hipstitch offers a variety of sewing and crocheting classes for both kids and adults, as well as kids camps. They also have craft kits and merch to purchase. Be sure to check them out for an out-of-the-box activity or for a fun gift.
Whether you’re new to Newton or you’ve lived in the area for years, you’re bound to enjoy the rich history, beautiful neighborhoods, and unique businesses you’ll find in West Newton. Let us know if we’ve missed any of your favorite spots!
Dwell360 is an elite residential real estate firm based in Newton, Massachusetts, servicing the cities and suburbs of metro Boston. Dwell360 is a leader in luxury real estate throughout Boston, Brookline, Newton, Needham, and other communities of the greater Boston area and on Cape Cod. Search for homes in Massachusetts or give us a call!
Sources
Historic Newton. West Newton. Retrieved from https://www.newtonma.gov/government/historic-newton/research/newton-history/villages/west-newton.
