Welcome to Point Ellice House
Discover a National and Provincial Historic Site that showcases British Columbia’s rich history through architecture, artifacts, and stories.
Managed by Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC), Point Ellice House is a place of education, reflection, and community engagement, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into 19th-century life.

About Point Ellice House
Point Ellice House stands as a testament to the rich and complex history of British Columbia, found on the traditional lands of the Lekwungen peoples (now known as the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations).
Once part of the sprawling estate of John Work, an Irish immigrant and Chief Factor of the Hudson’s Bay Company (HBC), the site reflects a history shaped by Indigenous communities, early settlers, and the evolving cultural landscape of the region.
As one of Victoria’s oldest residences, the house was built between 1861 and 1862 and expanded by the O’Reilly family, who resided here until 1975.
Our Partners
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In Great Company with OurPartners & Friends
Point Ellice House is proud to partner with local organizations that share our commitment to reconciliation and community. These include Métis Nation British Columbia (MNBC), Métis Nation Greater Victoria (our local Métis chartered community), Victoria Native Friendship Centre, University of Victoria, Emily Carr House, and many others. We value the collaborative relationships we’ve built and look forward to continuing our work together to promote mutual respect and understanding.

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Located in the birthplace of renowned artist Emily Carr, this historic site celebrates Pacific Northwest art and emphasizes Indigenous culture, aligning with our mission to highlight diverse voices and stories.

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Trusted By Industry Leaders






OUR SERVICES
Explore What We Offer atPoint Ellice House
Guided Tours
Explore the Heritage House, Gardens, and Carriage House with knowledgeable guides who bring history to life through stories and artifacts.
Educational Programs
Designed for schools, educators, and families, our programs explore Métis history, Victorian culture, and sustainability.
*Educational programs will begin in 2026
Community Events
Join us for seasonal celebrations, cultural workshops, and heritage-themed activities throughout the year.
Trading Post & Gift Shop
Support local Métis & Indigenous artists by shopping curated art, crafts, and heritage-inspired goods, available on-site & online.
Have Any Questions?
Contact us for inquiries about visits, accessibility, events, and more—we’re happy to help!
Plan Your Visit With Us
Guided House Tours
Our guides will lead you through the Heritage House, sharing stories and insights about the people and events intertwined with the history of Point Ellice House.
Self-Guided Tours
Prefer to explore at your own pace? Pick up a brochure at the entrance and enjoy a self-guided tour of the house and gardens. This option is perfect for those who want more flexibility or have limited time.
Bookings
We recommend booking in advance for guided tours, especially during peak visiting times (summer months & weekends). To reserve your spot, you can:
- Book online through our website.
- Call us directly at (236) 470 5127
- Email us at info@pointellicehouse.com.
- For group bookings or private events: please contact us in advance to ensure availability.
Join us for an enriching experience - book a tour or workshop Today!
Engage with history through interactive tours and workshops exploring Métis heritage, Victorian life, and sustainability.
Why Choose Point Ellice House?
Cultural and Educational Programs
Discover Métis and other Indigenous histories through tours and workshops.

Breathtaking Gardens

Authentic Historical Experience

Commitment to Reconciliation

Family-Friendly Activities

A Platform for Indigenous Voices

Testimonials
What Our Visitors Are Saying About Their Experiences
We owe more than words can say to the people who have come through our doors.
Visitor
"Learning about the Métis contributions and exploring the beautiful gardens was a highlight of our visit."
Visitor
"A must-visit for anyone interested in Victoria’s history and heritage. The tours are insightful and engaging."
Visitor
"Beautiful historic home, gardens and great staff who went out of their way to accommodate a special request. Highly recommended and well worth the visit. Don't let the location fool you, this museum is an oasis for history lovers."
Visitor
"The staff were amazing and so helpful. Saw a deer, lots of potential upgrades. If you get a chance, go see!"
Visitor
"The house and gardens are a must-see. The exhibitions are beautifully put together and reveal stories about Victoria's history that wouldn't otherwise be known. The gardens are a beautiful place to spend time in, and return to often as the seasons change!"
Visitor
F.A.Q.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about visiting Point Ellice House, including hours, accessibility, pet policies, and more. Learn about our history, photography guidelines, and ways to support our mission.
Still Have Questions?
No, Point Ellice House is no longer a tea house. While the site did serve tea and offer high tea with period-costumed staff in the past, this service ended in 2017. We now focus on providing a more educational and historical experience, offering tours, exhibits, and events that showcase the rich history of the house and its grounds.
Point Ellice House is open to the public from mid-May to September each year. During this time, we offer tours, events, and educational programming. The house is closed during the winter months for maintenance and off-season projects.
Except for special events, we do not currently offer food or beverage services on site. However, we encourage visitors to explore local dining options in the surrounding area, many of which are within walking distance of the house, and you can enjoy a picnic in the back lawn or our patio chairs and tables.
We want to acknowledge that the history at Point Ellice House includes complex and challenging narratives. One such story is that of Peter O'Reilly, a former Indian Reserve Commissioner. His tenure is tied to policies that had significant negative impacts on Indigenous communities, and his connections to figures such as Judge Begbie and Joseph Trutch are controversial. Because of this, we provide a content warning to prepare visitors for the sensitive nature of this part of our history.
We strive to make the site as accessible as possible. The main floor of Point Ellice House is wheelchair accessible, though due to the historic nature of the site, some areas, including the upper floors, may not be fully accessible. We have one accessible washroom and ramps to both the Heritage House and the Visitor Centre. If you have specific accessibility needs, please contact us in advance so we can accommodate you.
Absolutely! Point Ellice House is a family-friendly site. We encourage visitors of all ages to explore our exhibits and gardens. Our tours are designed to be informative and engaging for a wide range of audiences. Children must be supervised at all times while on the property.
Yes, we offer limited parking on-site for visitors. There is also street parking available nearby. We recommend arriving early during peak visiting hours, especially in the summer months, to secure a spot.
Yes, we encourage visitors to take photos during their visit! However, we ask that you be respectful of others and avoid using flash photography in certain areas where it may disrupt the experience for other guests or affect artifacts. If you're interested in photography for professional purposes, please contact us in advance for permissions.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your pet to Point Ellice House! We ask that pets be kept on a leash at all times, and that you clean up after them. Pets are allowed everywhere on the grounds, except inside the Heritage House itself.
Yes, you can bike to Point Ellice House! We have a bike rack available on-site for visitors who prefer to cycle. Please remember to lock your bike while you explore the site.
There are several ways you can support the preservation and educational mission of Point Ellice House:
- Make a donation: Your financial support helps us maintain and preserve the site.
- Volunteer: We welcome volunteers to help with events, gardening, and educational programs.
No, we do not offer event rentals at Point Ellice House. We invite you to join us for an informative and lively guided tour or enjoy the premises at your own pace with a self-guided visit.
"An incredible experience! The blend of history, culture, and nature at Point Ellice House is unparalleled."