Dundurn National Historic Site

Categories: Arts & Culture, Bucket List, Family Fun, Museums, Top Event

Discover why this castle overlooking the bay is one of Hamilton's most iconic attractions.

The site was once a key trading location for the Mississaugas and then the site of a fortified military encampment for British and loyalist soldiers.

It later became the opulent home of one of Canada's first premiers, Sir Allan MacNab and is now a National Historic Site.

Today, costumed interpreters lead personal and intimate tours throughout Dundurn Castle that tell the story of the wealthy family who lived above stairs and the servants who lived and worked below.

It's Hamilton's own Downton Abbey!

Highlights

• A costumed interpreter will give you a personalized tour of this 40-room estate built in the 1830s.
• The restored two-acre Kitchen Garden where costumed interpreters use 19th Century tools to grow food for Dundurn's kitchen. Hands-on workshops let visitors harvest food for use in historic recipes in the castle's kitchen.
• The fascinating Military Museum was originally built as a gate house atop a battery from the War of 1812. It now features exhibits that tell the unique stories of Hamiltonian's connection to various wars.
• Popular events throughout the year include garden tours and Christmas programming.
• The Castle Shop is your destination for beautiful Canadian handmade souvenirs and gifts.