Rideau Hall...
historic residence, urban estate and playground, a rare Ottawa oasis

The first thing that strikes you about Rideau Hall is the large size of the place.

It's a huge 79 acre estate sitting just a few minutes east of Parliament Hill. Just driving around the elegant fence of the compound will take you a few minutes.

Parking is restricted at Rideau Hall. And there isn't much parking on the streets. So be prepared to park and walk a few blocks on a busy day. But it's worth it.

When you visit you will have a few choices of things to do.

In Summer, depending on which gate you enter, you can go inside for a guided tour of the state rooms, visit the beautifully landscaped grounds, or listen to outdoor concerts.

If you're cricket fan, you can also enjoy the matches played on the grounds. Or if you like flowers and plants, you will enjoy a visit to the greenhouse.

Or, you can simply watch the colourful Relief of the Sentries parade by Governor General's Footguards.

Some people just like to stare at the sentries at the main entrance for a few minutes to see if they move.

...But they rarely do

In Summer, the Governor General has a Garden Party to which the public is invited. In Winter, you can skate on the frozen pond. The Governor General also holds a Winter Celebration party.

So, if you time your visit right you can be the next guest!

It was built in 1838 by Thomas McKay, a wealthy Scottish stone mason and mill owner. He was was the contractor who built the Ottawa Locks and the Rideau Canal. Along the West side of the Rideau Hall estate is Mackay Street, named in his honour.

Rideau Hall became the residence of the Governor General in 1858 shortly after Queen Victoria named Ottawa the Capital of British North America, Canada's old name. It has been the official residence of Canada's Governor General ever since.

In many ways, Rideau Hall is the institution which best represents the complete history of Canada as a modern nation. The portraits you see there tell the story.

The mansion has been extended and renovated several times over the decades. An indoor tennis court was added in 1872. This has now been converted to the current Tent Room used for receptions and dinners.

Rideau Hall is where the political decisions of Canada are officially sanctioned. For example, when an election is called, the Prime Minister goes to Rideau Hall to notify the Governor General who officially approves the election.

Or, when a new goverment is elected, the cereomony to swear in the members of the cabinet is held at Rideau Hall.

It is also well known for the Governor General's Awards ceremonies. These are held to honor Canadians who have excelled in their fields. The Governor General's awards are Canada's highest award for achievement.

For example, the Governor Genral Awards are given for acts of outstanding courage, outstanding accomplishments in the Arts, Science or contributions to Humanity.

Personally, I like going to Rideau Hall to enjoy the grounds, to picnic and listen to the Summer concerts. I also like visiting the grove of commemorative trees planted by visiting world leaders, such as the late US President, John F. Kennedy.

Here is the tree today...

And here is the plaque... it says,
planted May 16, 1961...

Rideau Hall is what I call an Ottawa 'multi-attraction'. It's also one of the most relaxing places of Ottawa attractions, so I do recommend you visit.

You will enjoy your visit to Rideau Hall.

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