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Ruthven Park National Historic Site: A Glimpse into 19th-Century Canadian Estate Life

Discover history and nature at Ruthven Park National Historic Site: Explore a 19th-century estate, wander scenic trails, and uncover a lost town.

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Ruthven Park National Historic Site, near Cayuga, Ontario, is a preserved 19th-century country estate showcasing a Greek Revival villa built for the Thompson family. Visitors can explore the mansion, wander scenic trails along the Grand River, and discover the remnants of the lost town of Indiana, offering a unique blend of history and nature.

A brief summary to Ruthven Park National Historic Site

Local tips

  • Check the Ruthven Park website for the schedule of events, including mansion tours, exhibits, and special programs.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the grounds and trails.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy in the designated picnic areas.
  • Consider visiting during the Celtic Festival for a celebration of culture with live music, food, and activities.
  • Be aware that some areas of the site have uneven terrain and limited accessibility.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Ruthven Park National Historic Site is located at 243 Haldimand County Hwy 54, Cayuga, ON N0A 1E0. From Cayuga, head north on Highway 54. The park entrance is a short drive north of the town center. Look for the sign marking the entrance to Ruthven Park. Free parking is available on site.

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct public transportation to Ruthven Park, you can take public transport to Cayuga and then take a taxi or ride-sharing service to the park. From the center of Cayuga, a taxi to Ruthven Park will cost approximately $15 - $25.

  • Walking

    From the town of Cayuga, it is approximately a 5km walk to Ruthven Park. Head north on Highway 54. Please use caution as there are no sidewalks for a portion of the walk.

Unlock the Best of Ruthven Park National Historic Site

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Discover more about Ruthven Park National Historic Site

Ruthven Park National Historic Site offers a captivating journey into Ontario's past. This 1,500-acre estate, located on the banks of the Grand River, centers around a beautifully preserved Greek Revival villa that was home to five generations of the Thompson family from the 1840s to the early 1990s. Designated a National Historic Site in 1995, the park provides a unique glimpse into the lives of a prominent family and the evolution of Upper Canada. The heart of Ruthven Park is the temple-fronted, Greek Revival villa, constructed of ashlar limestone in 1845-1846 and expanded in the 1860s. Designed by American architect John Latshaw, the mansion boasts bold Greek Revival ornamentation both inside and out. Guided tours of the mansion reveal original family furnishings and possessions, reflecting the tastes of the Thompson family across generations. Beyond the mansion, visitors can explore the picturesque landscape, which embodies 19th-century design principles. The property includes formal gardens, outbuildings, and a family cemetery. Five walking trails wind through diverse ecosystems, including Carolinian forests and wetlands, offering opportunities for birdwatching and nature appreciation. The trails range in length and difficulty, with the Riverside Trail offering views of the Grand River and the Fox Den Trail leading to a small beach area. Ruthven Park also holds the archaeological remains of the former village of Indiana, offering a glimpse into early settlement life in Upper Canada. The Indiana Trail passes by the St. Rose of Lima Catholic Cemetery, a reminder of the town's past. Throughout the year, Ruthven Park hosts various events and programs, including Celtic festivals, exhibits, and teas. The Coach House Café offers refreshments on select dates during the summer.

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