Major’s Hill Park: a green pause in central Ottawa
River views and a welcome contrast to the busy streets.
Major’s Hill Park was a lovely part of our day walking around Ottawa. After streets and large buildings, the greenery felt especially welcome.
The land was used as a park from 1826, around the beginning of work on the Rideau Canal, and is associated with the capital’s earliest public park history.
Header House is a surviving reminder of the former greenhouse complex. Small details like this reveal that a park’s present appearance also has a working history behind it.
The location gives views towards the Ottawa River and Parliament Hill. It connects scenery with the larger layout of the capital.
We continued towards the bridge linking Ontario and Quebec. The two provinces meet across the river, making the geography particularly easy to appreciate here.
Combine the park with ByWard Market: one part of the day for greenery and views, another for browsing and food.
It can be a short visit, but there is no need to rush out. In pleasant weather, allow time simply to sit and enjoy the setting.
Practical notes
A useful stop within a central Ottawa walk.
Combine it with the Parliament area and ByWard Market.
Planning and booking
More from our Canada trip
ByWard Market: explore the neighbourhood as well as the stalls
Ottawa’s Parliament district: an exterior walking visit