Canada House

A Century of Diplomatic Presence

Canada House stands as one of London's most strategically positioned diplomatic buildings, occupying a commanding position on the western side of Trafalgar Square since 1925. Originally constructed between 1824 and 1827 by Sir Robert Smirke—the celebrated architect of the British Museum—the building exemplified the bold neo-classical Greek Revival style that would influence the architectural character of Trafalgar Square itself. The structure was initially designed as two separate buildings: the Union Club to the south and the Royal College of Physicians to the north, both operating behind a unified classical façade. In 1923, Canadian High Commissioner Peter Charles Larkin led the acquisition of the Union Club, envisioning a centralized diplomatic home for Canada's growing presence in London. King George V officially opened the newly renovated Canada House on 29 June 1925, declaring it worthy of Canada's status as a great nation and its expanding international responsibilities.

Architectural Transformation and Heritage Restoration

The building's architectural journey reflects Canada's evolving relationship with Britain and its own identity. Architect Septimus Warwick oversaw the initial 1925 renovations, relocating the main entrance from Trafalgar Square to Cockspur Street and importing Canadian materials including maple and birch flooring, custom carpets, and furniture. The exterior was reclad in Portland stone to harmonize with the adjacent Royal College of Physicians. When the High Commission acquired the Royal College building in 1964, the two structures were unified into a single diplomatic complex, though subsequent decades saw the building's heritage features obscured by modernizations and lowered ceilings. A major revitalization beginning in 1997 and completed in 2014 reversed this decline, uncovering original skylights and reinstating double-height spaces while seamlessly connecting the heritage building to the adjacent former Sun Life Assurance building on Cockspur Street. The 2014 reopening transformed Canada House into a 21st-century showcase, with nearly 300 pieces of Canadian art, custom-designed furnishings from Canadian artisans, and materials sourced from across the country creating an interior that feels like working in an art gallery.

A Living Celebration of Canadian Culture and Design

Today, Canada House functions as both a working diplomatic mission and a cultural ambassador. The building features dedicated provincial and territorial rooms, each distinctly decorated with furnishings, textiles, carpets, and artworks representing that region's character and heritage. From visual artists to custom furniture and lighting designers, every element celebrates Canadian craftsmanship and forward-looking design. The rooftop terrace offers a unique vantage point over Trafalgar Square unavailable to most visitors, providing sweeping views of one of London's most iconic public spaces. The Canada Gallery, accessed from the Pall Mall entrance, operates as a free public space hosting rotating exhibitions of contemporary Canadian art and artists with Canadian connections, open Monday to Saturday from 11:00 to 17:45 (BST).

Visiting and Experiencing Canada House

Access to the main building is by guided tour only, with tours offered monthly on select Fridays and requiring advance registration due to limited spaces. Visitors must present government-issued photo identification and pass through airport-style security screening. Large bags, rucksacks, and suitcases are not permitted; lockers are provided for secure storage of prohibited items including cameras and smartwatches. Tours typically last one hour and are fully accessible via lifts, accommodating visitors of varying mobility. Children under six years old cannot be accommodated. The building's location in the heart of London's West End makes it easily accessible from most central areas, with Charing Cross station serving as the nearest major transport hub.

Centenary Celebrations and Contemporary Significance

In 2025, Canada House celebrates its centenary with a special exhibition titled "1925–2025: A Century in Canada House," running through August 30 at the Canada Gallery. This collaborative project between Library and Archives Canada and the High Commission features archival images, documents, film clips, original artifacts, and contemporary artworks exploring Canada House's role in representing Canada to the United Kingdom over the past hundred years. The exhibition invites visitors to contribute personalized maple leaves to a symbolic artwork celebrating Canadian diversity. Today, Canada House remains more than a diplomatic facility; it stands as a national emblem representing Canada's independence, cultural richness, and enduring partnership with Britain within the Commonwealth.