FEATURED OTTAWA NEIGHBOURHOODS SERIES: Britannia Village

One of Ottawa’s best-kept secrets, Britannia Village offers a cottage like environment just minutes from the hustle and bustle of downtown. 

This community is located along the bank of the Ottawa River. According to the Britannia Village Association, Britannia Village is the area bounded by Mud Lake Conservation Area, the Ottawa River, and the National Capital Commission bicycle path.   

The area around Britannia Village was the go-to location for rest and relaxation in the early 1900s.  According to the Workers History Museum website, Britannia Park was home to the “Trolley Company Amusement Park” that was built to encourage people to use the trolleys on the weekends (weekends were only a day and a half at the time).  For a nickel, residents of Ottawa could head to Britannia Park to enjoy one of the first amusement parks in Canada.  The amusement park operated from 1900 -1920 and was home to rides, music, dancing, and even a 1,000 foot pier that extended into the Ottawa River.

Britannia Village is also home to The Britannia Yacht Club, a private social club that was founded in 1887.   The Club is still operating today and has largely maintained its historic appearance over the last 128 years of operation.

The character of Britannia Village is quite stunning.  You can navigate the neighbourhood quickly and see a variety of housing styles including modern, mid-century, and contemporary.  The history of Britannia can be seen through the architecture that has been influential throughout the various decades. Britannia Village also has some odd property divisions, which might be attributed to the fact

Without question, the community is in a great location.  Located along the Ottawa River, it provides great access to Britannia Park and Beach and the Ottawa River Bike Path. There is also a boat launch at the end of Rowatt Street for those want to venture out on to the Ottawa River.

To learn more about what Britannia Village has to offer, visit the Britannia Village Community Association website or get in touch with me. I’d be happy to show you around!