Enchanting castles to visit in B.C. with fascinating histories

If you’re ready to be immersed in the stuff of fairytales, these enchanting castles in B.C. are a must-visit. They’re where 19th-century architecture, dark history, and modern cinema all meet, and they all feel straight out of a movie.

This Victorian-era castle was built by Robert Dunsmuir, who found his fortune in Vancouver Island’s coal industry. His massive estate was built from 1887 to 1890 on a hill overlooking Victoria to signify his immense wealth and importance in western Canada. While he died in 1889 before his “Bonanza Castle” could be completed, he left the entire estate to his wife, Joan, who lived in the castle until her passing in 1908.

Guided tours are available at select times; otherwise, self-guided admission is $22.50 per adult and $10 to $14.80 per child, depending on age. The castle is currently open Wednesdays through Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Where: 1050 Joan Cres., Victoria

Hatley Park Castle is an Edwardian-style estate known as one of B.C.’s “most haunted” sites. Built on the Esquimalt Lagoon, the oceanfront castle is now a museum paying tribute to the Dunsmuirs (particularly James Dunsmuir), who are said to haunt the estate.

If you’re a film buff, you might recognize parts of Hatley Park from its 80-some years on the silver screen. This includes Xavier’s School for Gifted Youngsters in the X-Men franchise, in addition to over 30 other films.

Where: 2005 Sooke Rd., Victoria

Situated on the grounds of Government House and its National Historic Site, this castle offers visitors the chance to enjoy a cup of tea and lunch at Rudi’s Tea Room from May to September every year. The tea room is located inside Butterworth Cottage: one of the original 19th-century buildings on the estate.

Government House is the official residence of the Lieutenant Governor and the ceremonial home of all British Columbians. And while visitors will have to wait for next spring to enjoy tea, who’s to say you can’t still visit and roam the grounds or go on a fall or winter tour? Plus, there are over 20 gardens on the estate to explore!

Where: 1401 Rockland Ave., Victoria

This one doubles as an iconic hotel, but the Fairmont Empress is known as “Canada’s Castle on the Coast” for a reason. The chateau-style building dates back to the early 1900s, and was named after Queen Victoria, AKA the “Empress of India.” In fact, the City of Victoria itself largely developed around the Empress after its completion in 1908, according to the Fairmont Empress.

Today, guests can enjoy traditional afternoon tea, check out the award-winning Willow Spa, and celebrate Christmas at the Castle every December.

It’s also home to one of the world’s best stained-glass domes in the Palm Court.

Where: 721 Government St., Victoria

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