Home / Government House / Visit the House

Visit the House

Public Tours

Government House is open to the public via guided tours. Tours give a look into the residence of the Lieutenant Governor and the ceremonial home of all British Columbians, covering history, points of interest, and art and architecture. Tours are free but space is limited, and visitors must register in advance.

Public Tours Schedule:

2023 Fall and Winter Saturday Tour Dates:
September 2, September 9, September 16
October 14, October 28
November 11, November 25
December 9, December 16

Pre-registration is required – register and select a date and time here, up to two weeks ahead.

Garden Tours

While the gardens at Government House are open to the public free of charge, The Friends of Government House Gardens Society offers guided walking tours for those looking for a more in-depth visit. Tours visit most of the 20+ gardens on the estate and provide information about the landscape, trees, unique plants, history, and how the gardens are cared for by hundreds of volunteers.

Tour details, cost, and booking details can be found here. 

Private Group Tours

Small group tours for non-profit, community, or academic organizations (such as schools) can be booked during weekdays. No organization may sell tickets or access to a private group tour. Tours are subject to availability, and may be booked by filling out the following form: 

    Please note: Tours are only conducted in English.






    Please note: Private tours are only offered on weekdays (subject to availability) and are limited to one hour. Public tours are available on a limited basis on Saturdays, tickets are free but space is limited to individual registrants. If you would like refreshments, we invite you to visit the Cary Castle Mews Tea House located on the Government House grounds, open May through September.