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. 

Medicine shield workshop

Friday, August 15 from 1 pm to 2:30 pm
Ages 16 and up.
Cost: $75 + tax (per person) . Advance registration is required.

Join Makatew Workshops at Pinhey's Point Historic Site to create a Medicine Shield, a deeply personal piece rooted in Indigenous tradition. Historically used by warriors and hunters for protection, medicine shields also carried spiritual significance, representing the strengths, values, and guiding visions of the individual who crafted them. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn about the purpose and symbolism of Medicine Shields and be guided through the process of designing and assembling your own. Each participant will create their shield using a brass ring as the frame and locally sourced deer hide as the canvas. You’ll then personalize it using beads, feathers, and meaningful symbols that reflect your personal story, values, and aspirations.

Alongside the creative process, this session also includes important conversations around the Medicine Wheel teachings, appropriate terminology when speaking about Indigenous Peoples, and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action, offering an opportunity to deepen your understanding of Indigenous history, identity, and the path forward.

This workshop is delivered in a safe and inclusive space that encourages respectful dialogue, learning, and connection. No prior experience is necessary, all materials are provided, and participants of all backgrounds are welcome.

This workshop will take place outdoors; an indoor space will be provided in the event of inclement weather.  Light refreshments will be served.

About the instructor: Makatew Workshops was founded in 2019 by Marc Forgette, a French Algonquin member of the Apitipi Anicinapek Nation (formerly Wahgoshig First Nation). Marc facilitates cultural awareness workshops for public, private, and non-profit organizations, with a hands-on approach that emphasizes respectful engagement and meaningful dialogue.

 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.

History Helpers

August 10, August 17 and August 24 from 1 pm to 4 pm
Cost: Pay-What-You-Can

Kids are invited to help our time-travelling characters tackle tasks and challenges inspired by daily settler life in March Township. Pack a picnic, enjoy an afternoon on the riverfront, and drop by the museum to discover a piece of local history with family-friendly, hands-on activities, highlighting heritage skills and pastimes.

August 10 – Antoine (voyageur)

August 17 – Henry (farm hand)

August 24 – Catherine (family member)

*This is a drop-in style program; kids and families are welcome to join the activities at any time during the advertised hours. The program is best suited for children ages 6 to 12, however, younger children may be able to enjoy the activities with the assistance of an adult or older sibling. This program is delivered in English, however, all reasonable efforts will be made to have a bilingual (English/French) staff member available to assist.

Pinhey's Past-Times

July 13, July 27 and August 2 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.

July 13 - Ottawa Valley Weavers' and Spinners' Guild and Ottawa Knitting Guild

July 27 - Little Ray's Nature Centres (11 am, 1 pm and 3 pm)

August 2 – Leather stamping and shaving horse (hand tool) demonstrations with Chad Clifford

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.