These magical castles in BC are straight out of a storybook

Ready to be transported to a land of fairytales? Well, you might just find your storybook moment at one of these historic castles in British Columbia – though it might not all be sunshine and rainbows. Some of these castles, while truly enchanting, are said to be haunted. You’ll just have to go and see!

Hatley Park Castle & National Historic Site 

Hatley Park Castle is an Edwardian-style estate known as one of BC’s most ‘haunted’ locations. Built on the Esquimalt Lagoon, the oceanfront castle is now a museum paying tribute to the Dunsmuirs (particularly James Dunsmuir), who are said to haunt the estate.

And if you’re a film buff, you might recognize parts of the estate from its 80-some years on the silver screen. This includes Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngsters in the X-Men franchise in addition to over 30 other films.

Where: Colwood, BC

Craigdarroch Castle

Robert Dunsmuir found his fortune in Vancouver Island’s coal industry, and built the legendary Craigdarroch Castle between 1887 and 1890 on a hill overlooking Victoria.

Guided tours are available at select times, otherwise, self-guided admission is $20.60 per adult and $$10 to $14.80 per child, depending on age.

Where: Victoria, BC

The Fairmont Empress

Known as ‘Canada’s Castle on the Coast,’ this chateau-style hotel dates back to the early 1900s, and was named after Queen Victoria – AKA the ‘Empress of India.’ In fact, the City of Victoria itself largely developed around the Empress after its completion in 1908, according to the Fairmont Empress.

Today, guests can enjoy traditional afternoon tea, check out the award-winning Willow Spa, and celebrate Christmas at the Castle.

It’s also home to one of the world’s best stained-glass domes in the Palm Court!

Where: Victoria, BC

Cary Castle Mews & Tea Room – Government House

Situated on the grounds of Government House and its National Historic Site, this castle offers visitors the chance to enjoy a cup of tea and lunch at Rudi’s Tea Room from May to September every year. The tea room is located inside Butterworth Cottage – one of the original 19th-century buildings on the estate.

Government House is the official residence of the Lieutenant Governor and the ceremonial home of all British Columbians. And while visitors will have to wait for next spring to enjoy tea, who’s to say you can’t still visit and roam the grounds or go on a fall or winter tour? Plus, there are over 20 gardens on the estate to explore!

Where: Victoria, BC