Originating on the land awarded in 1798 to the legendary Mohawk Chief Joseph Brant for service to the British Crown during the American Revolutionary War, Burlington is situated 60 km west of Toronto on the Niagara Escarpment. The community is largely considered a suburb of Toronto, but does have many worthwhile attractions of its own. The shores of Lake Ontario provide a lovely backdrop for the 24 km stretch of the Waterfront/Trans Canada Trail that runs along Burlington, well frequented by recreational enthusiasts and sunset seekers. Acres of nature areas brimming with seasonal colours are in the locale, including the large Royal Botanical Gardens. The Burlington Art Centre houses an outstanding contemporary Canadian ceramics collection, and hosts exhibits of sculpture, photography, paintings and fine crafts. Step into the past at the Joseph Brant home, a replica of his original 1800s home or at Ireland House, the original property containing artifacts from the 1850s up to the 1920s.