Dundurn Castle

Dundurn Castle is part of the Dundurn National Historic Site in west Hamilton. Built in the 1830s, the 40-room, neoclassical Italianate-style mansion was home to Sir Allan Napier MacNab and his family. MacNab was an affluent historical figure who became a railway magnet, lawyer and served as the Premier of the United Canadas from 1854 to 1856.

Today, costumed interpreters provide guided tours offering insight into the lives of Sir MacNab, his family life and the staff who worked at the castle, including a beloved gardener named William Reid.

Visit the Dundurn National Historic Site website

A view of the formal entrance of a historic mansion. — Dundurn Castle | Hamilton Halton Brant

How to get to Dundurn Castle

Location: 610 York Boulevard, Hamilton

By car: The free parking lot at Dundurn Castle is located off York Boulevard.

By transit: GO Transit provides train service to Hamilton. From the downtown station, the Hamilton Street Rail (HSR) #8 bus route travels to Dundurn Castle, at the York stop.

Know before you go

Dundurn National Historic Site is open year-round, except for public holidays including Good Friday, Canada Day, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year's Day.

While walk-ins are accommodated when possible, it’s strongly recommended to book the one-hour, guided tours of the castle in advance online.

Prepare for your visit on a virtual and interactive tour of Dundurn Castle and its grounds.

Things to do at Dundurn Castle

Discover more activities and experiences.

Visit the historic garden

Tour the restored Kitchen Garden from May to October where 1850s tools and techniques are used to grow a variety of heirloom fruits, vegetables and herbs for Dundurn Castle's historic kitchen.

Explore the military museum

Visit the Hamilton Military Museum and discover educational displays and artifacts that explore several battles, including the War of 1812, the Rebellions of 1837, the Boer War and WW1.

Browse the gift shop

Located in the 1870s coach house, The Castle Shop sells a variety of Canadian handmade crafts, souvenirs and gifts.

Enjoy special events

Sign up for unique experiences such as MacNab’s Kitchen Workshops featuring traditional recipes using local ingredients from the garden or The Heights Tour, which dives deep into the War of 1812.

Articles and itineraries

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A decorative foyer and winding staircase in a heritage home. — Dundurn Castle | Hamilton Halton Brant

Interesting facts about Dundurn Castle

Dundurn Castle is located on Burlington Heights, an elevated isthmus on Lake Ontario between Cootes Paradise the Hamilton Harbour. This site served as a key trading location for the Six Nations on the Grand River and the Mississaugas.

Dundurn Castle is located on the lands formerly owned and occupied by one of Hamilton’s early settlers, Richard Beasley. The site was converted into a fortified British military encampment during the War of 1812. The castle was then built and boasted some of the earliest modern conveniences of the time, including gas lighting and a washroom and toilet with running water.

Last updated: November 25, 2024