Dundurn Castle is a historic house museum in Hamilton, Canada, located in the city’s west end. Built in the early 19th century, the castle was once home to Sir Allan Napier MacNab, a prominent Canadian statesman. Today, the castle is a National Historic Site of Canada and a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. Whether you’re looking for a fun day out or a unique educational experience, here are 10 things to do in Dundurn Castle.
1. Explore the Castle Grounds: Dundurn Castle is situated on a sprawling estate with more than 20 acres of landscaped gardens and grounds. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the grounds and admire the lush greenery, exotic plants, and vibrant flowers. There are also several historical monuments and sculptures located throughout the grounds.
2. Take a Tour: Dundurn Castle offers guided tours of the house and grounds. The tour takes visitors through the castle’s main rooms and provides an in-depth look at its history and architecture. The tour also includes a visit to the castle’s kitchen, where visitors can learn about the food and ingredients used in 19th century cooking.
3. Visit the Military Museum: The Military Museum at Dundurn Castle is home to an impressive collection of artifacts, documents, and photographs related to the history of the Canadian military. Visitors can learn about the country’s military history, from the War of 1812 to the present day.
4. Attend a Special Event: Dundurn Castle hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, such as concerts, plays, and lectures. These events offer a unique opportunity to experience the castle in a different way and explore its history and culture.
5. Participate in a Workshop: Dundurn Castle offers a variety of workshops and classes for visitors of all ages. These workshops cover a range of topics, from gardening and cooking to photography and art.
6. Visit the Gift Shop: The Dundurn Castle gift shop offers a wide selection of souvenirs and memorabilia, including books, postcards, and other items related to the castle and its history.
7. Take a Cooking Class: Dundurn Castle offers cooking classes for visitors who want to learn how to prepare 19th century dishes. The classes teach participants how to make classic recipes, such as beef Wellington and Yorkshire pudding.
8. Enjoy a Picnic: Dundurn Castle’s grounds are the perfect spot for a picnic. Visitors can pack a lunch and find a spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.
9. Visit the Castle Garden: The Castle Garden is a tranquil spot where visitors can admire the lush foliage and colorful flowers. The garden also features a variety of sculptures and statues.
10. Take a Guided Tour of the Grounds: Dundurn Castle offers guided tours of the grounds, which provide visitors with an in-depth look at the castle’s history and architecture. The tour also includes stops at several historical monuments and sculptures.
Whether you’re looking for a fun day out or an educational experience, Dundurn Castle is sure to have something for everyone. With its impressive architecture, lush grounds, and interesting history, Dundurn Castle is a must-see destination in Hamilton.