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Britannia Park and Beach: Ottawa's Lakeside Retreat

Enjoy swimming, picnics, and scenic views at this historic Ottawa River park and beach, a family-friendly destination since the early 1900s.

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Britannia Park and Beach, located on the Ottawa River, offers a refreshing escape with its sandy beach, picnic spots, and recreational facilities. Originally developed as an amusement park in the early 1900s, it remains a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying waterfront activities.

A brief summary to Britannia Park and Beach

Local tips

  • Check the City of Ottawa's website for water quality updates before swimming, especially after heavy rainfall.
  • Bring a picnic and enjoy the BBQ pits and tables available in the park.
  • Explore the nearby Britannia Conservation Area and Mud Lake for birdwatching and nature trails.
  • Take advantage of the beach-accessible wheelchairs available for use.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Ottawa, take OC Transpo bus route 51 towards Britannia. The bus stops directly at Britannia Park on Carling Avenue. A single adult fare is $4.05. Check the OC Transpo website or app for real-time schedules and possible route changes.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services offer a direct route to Britannia Park from anywhere in Ottawa. From downtown, a taxi ride typically costs between $16 and $28, depending on traffic and distance. Taxi base fare is $4.00 plus $1.86 per kilometer. Parking is free at Britannia Beach.

  • Walking

    If you are in the Britannia neighborhood, walking to the park is a pleasant option. From the intersection of Richmond Road and Britannia Road, head north on Britannia Road until you reach Carling Avenue. The park entrance is on the left. Enjoy the views of the Ottawa River as you approach.

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Discover more about Britannia Park and Beach

Britannia Park and Beach, nestled in Ottawa's west end, provides a delightful lakeside experience for locals and tourists alike. The park boasts a rich history, evolving from a summer resort community in the 19th century to a bustling amusement park in the early 1900s. The Ottawa Electric Railway Company developed the park to encourage weekend ridership on their trolley line, creating a destination with beaches, picnic areas, rides, music, and dancing. Today, Britannia Park features a sandy beach ideal for swimming and sunbathing, with lifeguards on duty during the summer. The park also offers various amenities, including picnic tables, BBQ pits, play structures, and volleyball net rentals. The Ron Kolbus Lakeside Centre, located within the park, hosts events and big band dances. Beyond the beach, Britannia Park provides access to the Britannia Conservation Area, a 79-hectare wilderness area with trails surrounding Mud Lake. This conservation area is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, with diverse wildlife and plant species. The park is wheelchair-friendly and dog-friendly, ensuring all visitors can enjoy the park's offerings. While the park generally meets water quality standards, it's advisable to check Ottawa Public Health's website for updates on E. coli levels, as advisories may be issued after heavy rainfall. Despite these occasional advisories, Britannia Park and Beach remains a cherished destination for recreation and relaxation in Ottawa.

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