Pinhey’s Point Historic Site

On this page

About us

Nestled on the banks of the Ottawa River approximately 40 minutes west of downtown, Pinhey’s Point features a nearly 200-year-old manor house and surrounding ruins and is an Ontario Heritage Trust site.  Scenic views, historic buildings, stone ruins and rolling green hills come together to create one of the most spectacular places in Ottawa to relax, learn, and explore. The site is a popular destination for boaters and cyclists. 

Greenspace

Situated on 88 acres of farmers' fields, shoreline, and parkland, Pinhey's Point is an ideal outing for anyone who loves the outdoors. Pack a picnic lunch and plan on spending an afternoon in the sunshine, on the river, soaking up local history. Wooded areas and areas with tall grasses are also great habitats for ticks. Visit Ottawa Public Health online for more information on preventing tick bites. 

Hours and admission

Hours of operation:

Please note that museum is currently closed for the season; the park grounds remain open year-round.

See below for information on upcoming programs and events. 

Admission:

Admission is by donation.

*Special pricing may apply for programs and events.

Programs and special events

Snowshoeing under the stars

Friday evenings: February 3, 10, 17 and 24 from 7 pm to 9 pm.
Ages 15 and up.
Cost: $15.25 per person. Advance registration is required; walk-ins can not be accommodated for this program.

Discover beautiful Pinhey’s Point Historic Site on a guided snowshoe tour under the stars. Learn about the Pinhey family and how they, and other early settlers, experienced winters in March Township, as well as about the natural and built heritage of our 88-acre site along the banks of the Ottawa River.

After the tour, you’re invited to step inside the nearly 200-year-old manor house to enjoy a warm beverage (cocoa or cider) and to check out the winter-themed exhibition prepared by the Pinhey’s Point Foundation.

Registration:

Register online at Register Ottawa. Search “Pinhey’s Point” or by using the activity numbers listed below. Registration closes 24 hours before the session’s scheduled start time. If your group size exceeds 10, please contact the museum for further information regarding availability and booking: 613-580-9638 (Nepean Museum) or museums@ottawa.ca.

*Please note that all sessions of our Snowshoeing under the stars program are now full and registration has closed. If you have added your name to the waitlist for a snowshoeing session on register.ottawa.ca, you will be contacted (in order of placement on the list) if space becomes available.

Friday, February 3 (47280)
Friday, February 10 (48371)
Friday, February 17 (48372)
Friday, February 24 (48373)

Notes:

  • This program is delivered in English.
  • This program is suitable for all skills levels, including beginner snowshoers. The guided tour takes approximately one hour to complete and will follow a relaxed pace. The route includes regular stops and some inclines. The tour takes place after dark; flashlights are provided. If you have questions or concerns regarding accessibility, please contact the museum by phone at 613-580-9638 (Nepean Museum) or by email at museums@ottawa.ca. 
  • You will be contacted by email before your session with more information to help ensure we are able to match you with proper equipment and there will be time before the tour starts to familiarize yourself with the equipment and snow conditions. Participants are welcome to bring their own snowshoes if preferred.
  • Sessions with insufficient registration may be cancelled. If an alternative cannot be offered, a refund will be issued.
  • Please check the weather forecast and dress according to conditions. We recommend layers with a warm jacket, hat, mittens/gloves, and winter footwear. In the event of inclement weather, registered participants will be contacted directly regarding any changes to the program.

Exhibitions and collections

The artefact collection and permanent exhibitions at Pinhey’s Point are the accomplishments of the Pinhey’s Point Foundation, and provide historical context to your visit.

Virtual Exhibition - Cabinet of Curiosities

Cabinets of curiosities displayed the strange and the scientific, the weird and the wonderful. Our team has gone through our collections and picked out the artefacts that appeal most to them to create our very own cabinet of curiosities. You can enjoy this exhibition from the comfort of your own home while learning the history of each artefact and why it stood out to our staff. Enter Cabinet of Curiosities here!

Our volunteers

The City of Ottawa Museums are committed to offering residents meaningful and rewarding volunteer experiences.

Heritage volunteers play an invaluable role in preserving our unique heritage and in providing museum visitors of all ages with opportunities to appreciate our shared story.

Thank you to all our volunteer team members for their continued support.

To enquire about volunteering, please contact museums@ottawa.ca.

Rentals

A historic manor house and stone ruins nestled on 88 acres of greenspace with stunning views of the Ottawa River and the Gatineau Hills provide a picturesque backdrop for your special events.

For more information, please contact our Customer Service Booking Clerk. Call 613-580-9638 or email museums@ottawa.ca.

Accessibility

Work with us to shape your experience. Contact the museum before your visit to discuss your needs. Information about accessibility at the facility, programs, and services is available upon request.

Parking

  • 2 designated parking spaces
  • Accessible path of travel from the parking lot to entrance
  • 110 metres from parking space to the door

Entrance/Exit

  • 1 accessible entrance
  • Ramp
  • Wide door for wheelchair passage
  • Must pass through one room before reaching lobby

Interior 

  • Wheelchair available for patrons

Reception desks

  • Floor area for manoeuvring a wheelchair

Floor Surfaces

  • Most floors are hardwood
  • Low pile carpet

Signage

  • Directional signs
  • High contrast signage

Washrooms

  • Accessible washroom on 1st floor and exterior
  • Lowered drinking fountains

Telephone

  • Volume control
  • Accessible path

Stairs

  • Continuous hand rails

Museums/Galleries/Archives

  • 88-acre site is only partially wheelchair accessible.  Barriers include surface (grass, rock, agricultural field, etc.) and grade
  • Interpretative labels/panels in large font

 Learn more about special needs and accessible services.