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A Home for Canada’s Governor General
Rideau Hall is the official residence of the governor general of Canada, Her Excellency Michaëlle Jean. In Canada’s parliamentary democracy, the governor general represents Queen Elizabeth II as head of state.
Since Confederation in 1867, all governors general have lived at Rideau Hall. The 32-hectare estate features the residence, service buildings, a visitor centre and extensive grounds and gardens.
Welcoming Visitors
As the official residence of the governor general, Rideau Hall is a place of dignity, grace and tradition. It also provides a warm welcome to visitors. Unless an official function is taking place, visitors are welcome on the Rideau Hall grounds year-round. Depending on the time of the year, you can:
- take a self-guided tour of the grounds
- peruse the visitor centre and gift shop
- tour the public rooms
- visit the gardens and greenhouses
- enjoy special events like the Governor General's Garden Party or Summer Concert Series
- go ice skating
There’s even a play structure for children.
An Historic Estate
Rideau Hall was built in 1838 for Thomas Mackay, a prominent mill owner. The property was named Rideau Hall because Mackay helped build the Rideau Canal and owned mills on the Rideau River.
In 1867, it was acquired by the newly formed Government of Canada as the official residence for Governor General Monck. Since then, the stone building has been enlarged to fulfill the needs of official events with large numbers of guests. One interesting feature is the “Tent Room,” a wing that originally housed an indoor tennis court and has kept its tent character through the years.
An Important Role
Rideau Hall is not only a residence; it is also a workplace. Here the governor general carries out many constitutional, diplomatic and ceremonial duties.
A Partner in Parliament
The governor general is an integral part of Parliament and some of his/her parliamentary duties are carried out at Rideau Hall. For example, the governor general is responsible for ensuring that Canada always has a prime minister. After an election, the prime minister and other cabinet ministers take the oath of office at Rideau Hall.
Diplomatic Duties
Another key task involves international relations. Before diplomats can work in Canada, they must present their credentials to the governor general in a formal ceremony in the ballroom of Rideau Hall. Canada maintains diplomatic relations with more than 100 countries, so receiving letters of commission and credence is an ongoing task.
Recognizing Excellence
The governor general recognizes the achievements of outstanding Canadians with honours, decorations for bravery and service, and awards. The centrepiece of the honours system is the Order of Canada, established in 1967 to mark Canada’s Centennial. Canadians are honoured for outstanding lifetime service in a variety of fields. Some well-known recipients are astronaut Roberta Bondar, poet Leonard Cohen, actress Dominique Michel, writer Antonine Maillet and cancer activist Terry Fox. The Governor General’s Caring Canadian Award was created in 1996 to honour Canadian caregivers and volunteers.
Representing All Canadians
Many people wonder why Canada has both a governor general (representing the head of state) and a prime minister (the head of government). One reason is that the governor general can represent all Canadians as a neutral symbol removed from partisan concerns and the daily affairs of government. The governor general travels to every part of Canada — presenting awards, supporting worthy causes and meeting Canadians from all walks of life.
Location
1 Sussex Drive, Ottawa
Directions
Facing Parliament Hill, turn right on Wellington Street. Turn left on Sussex Drive. Continue on Sussex Drive for approximately 3 km (1.9 miles), the residence is on the right.
Contact
Information / Reservation Office: 613-991-4422 or 1 866 842-ggca (4422)
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