Laurier House | Ottawa

Information

Landmark: Laurier House
City: Ottawa
Country: Canada
Continent: North America

Laurier House, Ottawa, Canada, North America

Laurier House is a historic residence located in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.

It served as the home of two Canadian Prime Ministers, Sir Wilfrid Laurier and William Lyon Mackenzie King.

Visual Characteristics

The house is a two-and-a-half-story structure constructed primarily of red brick. It features a hipped roof with dormer windows and decorative stone trim around the openings. The architectural style is Queen Anne Revival, evident in its asymmetrical facade, wrap-around porch, and varied window shapes.

Location & Access Logistics

Laurier House is situated at 335 Laurier Avenue East, approximately 3 kilometers east of Parliament Hill. Access is via Laurier Avenue East, which is a main arterial road. Limited street parking is available on surrounding residential streets. Public transport options include OC Transpo bus routes 1, 7, and 14, with stops within a 5-minute walk of the house.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The original house was built in 1878 for Edward McGillivray. Sir Wilfrid Laurier purchased the property in 1897 and resided there until his death in 1919. William Lyon Mackenzie King acquired the house in 1923 and lived there until his death in 1950. It was designated a National Historic Site in 1973.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can tour the preserved rooms of both Sir Wilfrid Laurier and William Lyon Mackenzie King, observing original furnishings and personal belongings. Guided tours provide historical context and insights into the lives of the former Prime Ministers. The grounds include a formal garden.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on-site. Limited shade is provided by trees on the property. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally good in the area. No food vendors are located directly at Laurier House; options are available in the nearby ByWard Market.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography of the exterior is late afternoon when the sun illuminates the facade. The house is open year-round, with spring and autumn offering pleasant outdoor conditions for exploring the grounds. Interior tours are available during operating hours.

Facts & Legends

William Lyon Mackenzie King was known for his interest in spiritualism and kept detailed diaries that are preserved at Laurier House. A specific tip for visitors is to pay attention to the details in Mackenzie King's study, which reflect his eclectic interests.