For some, the true meaning of rural life is living right in the heart of the prairie, gazing up at the dark, starry skies without the distraction of city lights, and taking in the sights and sounds of farmers at work in their nearby fields. That’s New Bothwell.
While it has a low population of only 650 people, the heartbeat of this community is strong and spirited. This is a town where everyone is your neighbour, and neighbours gather regularly to share stories and discuss world events—events that hardly touch them here in this quiet little escape from the world.
In the evening, enjoy a peaceful walk or jog through the unending countryside. It’s the perfect way to destress after a long day’s work. As one long-time resident describes it, “New Bothwell has that tranquil feeling where most everyone is willing to stop for a chat or give a friendly wave.”
Famously, New Bothwell has built its reputation on delicious food—food that reminds you of days gone by, like artisan home-baked breads, fresh-cut meats, and of course the world-renowned Bothwell Cheese. Their internationally award-winning cheeses have lifted this town to a place of fame. Just say you’re from “Bothwell,” and your city friends will think of their favourite cheeses.
Basic amenities are close at hand, including a convenience store and cafe, an automotive repair shop, and a post office. The regional fire department boasts 15 firefighters and modern equipment. Despite the town’s size, cell phone and internet services are very good here.
Live. While prebuilt homes can occasionally be found for sale, Fairfield Ridge is a new development and a big reason why this small town is growing. The development’s modern design, with paved streets, gutters, underground hydro lines, and decorative ponds, lends itself well to a city feel in a rural setting. Entry-level, mid-level, and two-family duplex lots are available here, all priced for affordability.
The local elementary and middle school is located within a short walk from everywhere. Because of its size, the locals will tell you that Bothwell School is the closest thing you’ll find to a private school without the expense of private education. Classroom sizes are small and many of the staff have taught there for years, building long-term relationships with students that last well after graduation. High school students take a short bus ride to the Steinbach Regional Secondary School to complete their education.
Work. New Bothwell is home to the cheese factory, of course, and a number of other businesses that provide employment for hundreds of locals. For those who don’t mind a commute, all-highway access is available to the city of Steinbach, just 20 minutes southeast, and Winnipeg, 25 minutes northwest.
Play. Oftentimes, the beauty of a small town is its volunteer spirit. Like a close family, this community loves to spend time together.
Bothwell Park is a great gathering place for all ages. A picnic shelter, playground equipment, and indoor recreation facilities are available year-round. During the cold months, residents enjoy an outdoor skating rink and toboggan slide. The local recreation committee runs programming for soccer and baseball for young children in the summer months. Parents often choose to carpool to one of the neighbouring communities for other organized sports.
Like every great small town, New Bothwellians love their festivals. The annual summer fair includes great food, live entertainers, games, and ball tournaments. Every year it closes with an elaborate fireworks display that can be seen for miles around. The winter carnival is much the same, but with events focused on the ice and snow that’s so abundant in February.
The annual Bothwell Wine and Cheese has been going strong for ten years. This popular event brings in hundreds of outsiders to sample gourmet cheeses paired with appropriate wines for the best palate pleasers. All of the proceeds are donated to the local recreation centre.
For a small town, New Bothwell packs a lot of punch.
