Cary Castle Mews

The Cary Castle Mews is a cluster of 19th century wooden service buildings located on the southeast side of the Government House estate. The Mews consists of stables, a carriage house, a gaol, a root cellar, a wash house and a poultry house (part of which was later used as a gardener’s cottage).

These onsite buildings have been used as support buildings to Government House since their construction in the 1870s. Thanks to the efforts of the Government House Foundation, some of the buildings have been rehabilitated and are now outfitted for the public to enjoy.

The Costume Museum 

With changing displays every year, the Costume Museum tells the story of Lieutenant Governors, and the history of Victoria and British Columbia through fashion displays from years gone by. The themes showcase some of more than 200 costumes from the 1860s to the 1970s. It also houses vintage accessories, period artifacts, and Government House memorabilia. Learn local history in an entertaining, visually stunning way, surrounded by beautiful gowns, interesting tidbits and friendly docents who engage and explain what makes BC’s Government House so very special.

The Costume Museum is located in the Cary Castle Mews, lower parking lot. 

2026 Opening Day: May 19, 2026

HOURS
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
10:00 am –4:00 pm

Special closure dates:
June 30, 2026
 July 1, 2026

Closing date: Friday, August 28, 2026