Wilkes House is located on the WLU "Heritage Block," in close proximity to Post House Residence, and the Student Centre which both have heritage considerations in their design and architecture and directly behind the residence is the new Academic and Research Centre. Wilkes House is a unique combination of a first year residence and a recreation centre for all Brantford students.
This residence features 38 single rooms and 1 double room within 7 one-of-a-kind apartment suites. This (like all Brantford residences) is a co-ed building, with single-sex apartments. Each apartment has it's own kitchen, eating area, living room, bedrooms, and bathrooms.
Physical activity is an important part of the university lifestyle. Whether you are a weight-lifting pro or enjoy practicing yoga, the Wilkes House Recreation Centre offers something for everyone. The building opened on the Brantford campus in 2006 and is home to our cardio and weight room as well as a gymnasium when many of our intramural sports are played. All fitness classes are open to any students and come at no additional cost.
Our new Laurier/YMCA Athletic and Recreation Centre broke ground in August of 2014. It will be a $50 million dollar facility that will help meet the needs of our growing campus population.
Interesting Facts about Wilkes House Gym:
Wilkes House dates back to 1869, when it was home to Alfred Wilkes and his family, one of the founding families in Brantford.
At one point, Wilkes House Recreation Centre was the Boys and Girls Club, and an interesting Brantford fact is that Wayne Gretzky played ball hockey in the gym.
When the building was being renovated, books were found in the walls. These books are now on display in the foyer of the Wilkes House residence building.