Timberlea is positioned on the St. Margarets Bay Highway, as part of Halifax County. Before Timberlea, the town was also known as Nine Mile River and Bowser Station. The current town name is based on the fact that the town was positioned on a grassy field surrounded by a wooded area, which is what Timberlea means. Situated in woodlands, Timberlea fittingly became a lumber and sawmill community at its inception. Timberlea was first granted to George Boutilier in 1841, after he was awarded a 50-acre grant. Today, Timberlea is primarily a community for people employed in Halifax and Dartmouth and is just 16.9 km (10.5 mi.) west of Halifax.

Timberlea is a conveniently located place for visitors, close to the big city yet still small and hospitable. Timberlea features excellent walking and biking trails, great shopping at the Bayer's Lake Park and recreation areas. Fraser's Mill Museum pays tribute to the history of Timberlea, specifically the town sawmill that was owned by the Fraser Family. Visitors to Timberlea can either head to a nearby lake and enjoy the natural beauty of the area, or drive to Halifax and take in the vibrant city life.

Timberlea accommodations include motels.