Government House: A Glimpse into PEI's History
Explore PEI's history and heritage at Government House, the elegant residence of the Lieutenant Governor, surrounded by beautiful gardens in Charlottetown.
Government House, or Fanningbank as it's known to locals, is a stately reminder of Prince Edward Island's colonial past and present-day connection to the Crown. Constructed in 1834, the building serves as the official residence of the Lieutenant Governor, the King's representative in the province. The land on which Government House sits was set aside in 1789 by then-governor Edmund Fanning, with the specific intention of it becoming the site for the Lieutenant Governor's residence. The original parcel was approximately 100 acres, but in 1876, a large portion was given to the City of Charlottetown and became Victoria Park. The remaining 10 acres continue to house Government House and its grounds. Designed in the Georgian style with Palladian influences by architect Isaac Smith, who also designed Province House, the building itself is an impressive sight. Its white wooden shingle exterior, formal symmetry, and commanding view of Charlottetown Harbour make it a prominent landmark. Inside, visitors can admire the main hall with its grand stairway, Doric columns, and Palladian window. The house has undergone several remodelings but retains its original structure. Government House has hosted many significant events and distinguished guests throughout its history. These include visits from Edward, Prince of Wales in 1860, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip in 1959, and the Charlottetown Conference of 1864, where delegates posed on the steps for a photograph. During the First World War, it served as a convalescent home for returning soldiers. Today, it's the venue for the Order of Prince Edward Island and other recognition ceremonies. While Government House is a private residence, it opens to the public for guided tours during July and August, Monday to Friday from 10 am to 3 pm. These tours offer a unique opportunity to explore the house's history, architecture, and role in PEI's governance. The grounds are open daily to pedestrians from dawn until dusk, allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty of the surrounding gardens and grounds.
Local tips
- Visit during July and August for free guided tours of the interior, offered Monday to Friday.
- Explore the grounds and gardens, open to the public daily from dawn until dusk.
- Check out Victoria Park, adjacent to Government House, for a scenic waterfront stroll.
A brief summary to Government House
- 1 Terry Fox Dr, Charlottetown, Downtown, Prince Edward Island, C1A 8T6, CA
- +1902-368-5480
Getting There
-
Walking
From downtown Charlottetown, Government House is approximately a 15-minute walk. Head west along যেকোনো Kent Street, and continue until you reach Terry Fox Drive. Government House will be on your left, overlooking Victoria Park.
-
Public Transport
T3 Transit offers bus service throughout Charlottetown. Several routes stop near Victoria Park. From a bus stop near the park's entrance, it's a short walk to Government House. A single fare is $2.25.
-
Taxi
Taxi services like Charlottetown Taxi and PEI Taxi are readily available in Charlottetown. A short taxi ride from downtown to Government House will typically cost between $10 and $15.
