Categories: Travel

There’s a massive 1830s Italianate-style castle in Ontario that’s rich in history

Photo via Harold Stiver on Shutterstock

There’s a city in Ontario that is home to stunning landscapes, rushing waterfalls and even a massive castle. This Ontario gem is none other than Dundurn Castle and you can find it right in Hamilton. It’s a historic site just waiting to be explored and here’s how you can do it.

The City of Hamilton shares that the massive estate is a 40-room Italianate-style villa, built in the 1830’s.

It’s the former site of a fortified military encampment established by the British during the War of 1812.

You’ll be transported back to the mid-19th century as you step inside the massive castle.

Historical context

It became the home of Sir Allan Napier MacNab, a “railway magnate, lawyer and Premier of the United Canadas” from 1854 to 1856, according to the city.

MacNab and his family lived like royalty in this opulent castle and the servants lived “below the stairs.” You’ll get a glimpse into their world at this castle as you wander your way through all 40 rooms.

“Her Majesty, The Queen Consort is the museum’s Patron and the great, great, great-granddaughter of Sir Allan MacNab,” shares the city.

The tour takes around one hour to complete. In the warmer months, you can also pay a visit to the historic Kitchen Garden which hosts workshops where you can harvest food for 19th-century recipes.

On your way out, you can stop at the Coach House. It is now a shop that sells unique gifts and items all handmade here in Canada.

How to visit?

Admission to the castle also includes entry to The Hamilton Military Museum.

Though walk-in visitors are accommodated when it is possible, tour times do sell out during the busy months so purchasing tickets ahead of time may be a great idea.

Like Casa Loma, Dundurn Castle also hosts events throughout the year, like garden tours and Christmas programming.

If you’re looking for a weekend full of history, this is the place to be.