Pinhey’s Point Historic Site

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. 

Introduction to basketry

Saturday, July 5 from 1 pm to 5 pm
Ages 16 and up
Cost: $115.50 + tax (per person)
Advance registration is required.

Learn the basics of basket making at Pinhey's Point Historic Site.  Led by Michael Peterson from Beaux Arbres Basketry, participants will use rattan and foraged materials for embellishments to create their own small market basket. This workshop is the perfect opportunity to explore a new hobby while enjoying beautiful views of the Ottawa River. All skill levels, including beginners, are welcome. All supplies are included in the cost of registration. Light refreshments will be served.

 Notes:

• The primary language of delivery for this program is English.
• There are two accessible parking spaces located in the parking lot closest to the museum. The workshop will take place outside on a grass lawn and under sun cover, or inside the museum on the main floor. There is an accessible bathroom located via gravel path. Additional information about accessibility can be found on the museum web page. If you have questions or concerns regarding accessibility, please contact the museum by phone at 613-832-4347 or by email at museums@ottawa.ca.
• Advance registration is required. Workshops with insufficient registration may be cancelled. If an alternative cannot be offered, a refund will be issued.
• Visit the Ottawa Hand in Hand web page for information on available financial supports to facilitate participation in recreation and culture programs.

Introduction to Woodcarving: Comfort Birds

Friday, July 18 from 1 pm to 5 pm
Ages 16 and up
Cost: $85 + tax (per person)
Advance registration is required.

Led by Martin Thornell from Ottawa City Woodshop, participants will learn and apply basic whittling and carving skills to create their own “comfort bird.” Comfort birds are small carvings that fit in the palm of the hand. This workshop is the perfect opportunity to pick up a new hobby while enjoying beautiful views of the Ottawa River! All skill levels, including beginners, are welcome. All supplies are included in the cost of registration; light refreshments will be served.

 Notes:

• The primary language of delivery for this program is English.
• There are two accessible parking spaces located in the parking lot closest to the museum. The workshop will take place outside on a grass lawn and under sun cover, or inside the museum on the main floor. There is an accessible bathroom located via gravel path. Additional information about accessibility can be found on the museum web page. If you have questions or concerns regarding accessibility, please contact the museum by phone at 613-832-4347 or by email at museums@ottawa.ca.
• Advance registration is required. Workshops with insufficient registration may be cancelled. If an alternative cannot be offered, a refund will be issued.
• Visit the Ottawa Hand in Hand web page for information on available financial supports to facilitate participation in recreation and culture programs.

Pinhey's Past-Times

June 29, July 5 and July 6 from 10 am to 4 pm
Cost: Pay-What-You-Can

Complement your visit to Pinhey’s Point Historic Site with a heritage demonstration or hands-on activity. Explore a trade, pastime, or recipe inspired by the experiences of Hamnett K. Pinhey (1784-1857), his family, or those who live alongside and make use of the Ottawa River.

*Please note that the schedule of demonstrations and activities is subject to change. This program is delivered in English, however, all reasonable efforts will be made to have a bilingual (English/French) staff member available to assist.

June 29 - Outaouais Woodcarvers

Join members of the Outaouais Woodcarvers to learn more about woodcarving! You will get to smooth and polish a fiddlestick, and staff will be on hand with some more hands-on activities for you to enjoy. Please note that supplies are limited

July 5 - Ottawa Guild of Lacemakers

Members of the Ottawa Guild of Lacemakers will be on-site to teach you more about lacemaking! Join museum staff to try your hand at some of the lacemaking techniques that the guild will be demonstrating.

July 6 - Makatew Workshops

Nestled along the Ottawa River, this land was likely a stop for many different Indigenous groups, including the Anishinabe Algonquin peoples, long before it became home to generations of the Pinhey family. Led by Makatew Workshops, visitors are invited to learn the significance and use of medicine bags while making their own using locally sourced deer leather. Please note that supplies are limited.

As You See It: Past, Present, and Perspectives

This summer we’re inviting feedback to help shape how future visitors experience the stories, objects, and spaces at Pinhey’s Point Historic Site. We want to know how you best engage with the museum!

On the first floor, interact with “As You See It”, a temporary exhibition testing space where you can share thoughts, stories, and experiences using different styles of displays. Then, as you continue to explore the museum, look for red feedback stations throughout the exhibitions.

This project is presented by the City of Ottawa Museums and Historic Sites with the support of the Pinhey’s Point Foundation.

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

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.

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.

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 maneuvering 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.