
Billings Estate National Historic Site
Billings Estate National Historic Site's trained interpreters will guide you through the epic story, spanning four generations, of one of Ottawa's founding families and the evolution of the surrounding village. Key players in the development of an early Ottawa bridge, its fast-growing timber business, and the conversion of the area's forest into farmland, Braddish and Lamira Billings and their family stand as testament to the realization of a vision and the creation of a community.
Visit this National Historic Site and explore Ottawa's oldest wood-framed house, reflect on the stories of the people who lived and worked in the accompanying gatehouse, hear the fascinating tales of the smokehouse and icehouse, and stand peacefully in the historic and tranquil family cemetery. As the story of one of Ottawa's founding families emerges, you will begin to understand the impact of the Billings family on your history and the history of the city.
After your visit to this national historic site, enjoy the emerald green lawns and garden of the Estate while having high tea on the lawn.
Hours of operation
Our 2009 season begins on May 10 and ends on October 31. During this time, the museum is open Wednesday to Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and is closed on Monday and Tuesday, except by appointment.
Special events and programs are offered throughout the year, including the off-season. After the season ends, you can contact the museum at 613-247-4830 to make an appointment for a private tour.
Admission
Adults $5.00
Seniors $4.50
Children $3.00
Families $13.00
Children under the age of 5 are admitted for free.
Group rates are available. Please contact the museum for more information.
Location, Directions & Parking
The museum is located at 2100 Cabot Street.
Driving directions: Take Riverside Drive South to Pleasant Park. There are lights at the intersection for Riverside and Pleasant Park. Turn left onto Pleasant Park and follow it to Cabot Street. Turn right onto Cabot Street and follow the signs to the museum.
There is plenty of free parking as well as room for buses to park at the museum.
Public transportation: The museum is near the Pleasant Park transit station. Consult OC Transpo for route information and times.
Eating and Shopping
Spoil yourself with the Billings Estate's tea service served overlooking this National Historic Site's bountiful flower gardens. Choose a traditional scone and tea served with Devonshire cream and jam or order our 3-tier service with finger sandwiches, scones, and desserts.. Visitors are welcome to bring their own snacks or meals and picnic on the grounds. This beautiful setting is perfect for anyone looking for a calm retreat moments from downtown.
Tea on the Lawn is served from May 10 to August 31 on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays, from noon until 4 pm, rain or shine. Contact the museum for the daily menu and pricing. Our indoor tea service is also available to groups by reservation during the rest of the year.
The museum’s gift shop sells a selection of unique gift items and souvenirs that will delight all ages. Whether you’re looking for the perfect teapot, or a souvenir for the kids, our in-house gift shop has something for everyone. The store is open during regular business hours, so stop by and take a piece of the museum home to enjoy every day!
Contact us
2100 Cabot Street
Ottawa, Ontario K1H 6K1
Tel: 613-247-4830
Fax: 613-247-4832
museums@ottawa.ca
For more information visit
www.friendsofbillingsestatemuseum.org
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