In 1849 Abraham Buck established a tavern near the town of Hanover which would provide the nucleus from which a small community would develop. Strategically located at the intersection of the Durham Road and a branch of the Saugeen River, the community grew quickly as settlers, many German in origin, flocked to the area. Hanover Ontario was first known as Buck’s Crossing, which is now the name of a Golf Course just east of the town. The Saugeen River runs through Hanover and offers some of the best canoeing in the province. The Saugeen River is rated as one of the best fishing rivers in Ontario and the annual trout and salmon runs are an astonishing marvel of nature that can be observed at various points around the town. Hanover’s motto is “The Place to Be”, and it indeed has many amenities as well as fine dining and recreational venues. With Lake Huron and Georgian Bay just minutes away, it is easy for the town residents and visitors alike to enjoy the great boating, swimming and hiking found within close proximity of Hanover.

Hanover Town Park on the banks of the Saugeen River is a favourite with locals. It offers large picnic areas, with a wide variety of playground equipment for children of all ages as well as a picnic pavilion. Just south of Hanover is the Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority which offers 2.5 kms of groomed nature trails that are in use year round for hiking or cross country skiing. Near Allan Park, a short drive east of Hanover is another area maintained by the Conservation Authority. This park has an abundance of tobogganing hills and 6 kms of hiking trails. There is also a stocked pond complete with picnic grounds.

Hanover is home to a number of community groups dedicated to cultural pursuits that take place at the Town Hall Theatre. Some of these include the Grey-Bruce Singers, the Queen's Bush Chorus, the Hanover Youth Choir and the Grey Bruce School of Dance. Harness Racing is enjoyed from May to September. As well, adjacent to the raceway is a new gaming facility featuring 100 slot machines, which opened in February 2001.