Irving House Museum
Step back in time at Irving House, one of the oldest intact homes in the Lower Mainland, built in 1865.
Take a trip to British Columbia's colonial past at the Irving House Museum in New Westminster. This beautifully preserved 14-room home belonged to Captain William Irving, a prominent Fraser River steamship captain. As you step through the doors, you'll feel like you've entered another era, with original furnishings and artifacts that tell the story of the Irving family and the early days of the Royal City.
Why Visit Irving House?
- Authentic History: The house contains many of the original furnishings and possessions of the Irving family, offering a rare and authentic glimpse into 19th-century life.
- Architectural Gem: Built in the Gothic Revival style, the house itself is a beautiful example of the architecture of the period.
- Knowledgeable Guides: Friendly guides, often in period costume, are on hand to share stories and answer questions about the house and its former residents.
- A Quiet Escape: It's a peaceful and educational experience, offering a quiet change of pace from the bustle of the city.
What to See & Do
- Tour the 14 Rooms: Explore the fully furnished rooms, from the formal parlour to the children's bedrooms, each decorated as it would have been in the late 1800s.
- Learn from the Guides: Engage with the interpreters to learn fascinating details about the Irving family and life in colonial British Columbia.
- Explore the Grounds: Enjoy the heritage gardens surrounding the house.
Pro Tips & Local Insights
- Check the Hours: Irving House has limited hours, typically only open on weekend afternoons. Always check the official website before you visit, especially for seasonal closures.
- Combine Your Visit: The New Westminster Museum and Archives is located nearby at the Anvil Centre, offering more insight into the city's history.
- Allow Enough Time: Plan for at least an hour to fully appreciate the house and chat with the guides.
Nearby Attractions (Transit-Friendly)
- New Westminster Museum and Archives: Located in the Anvil Centre, a short walk from the house.
- Westminster Pier Park: A beautiful waterfront park accessible from Columbia Station.
- Front Street Mews & Antique Alley: Explore the shops and restaurants along New Westminster's historic Front Street, just down the hill from the museum.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: By DonationIrving House Museum Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: Closed
- Thursday: Closed
- Friday: Closed
- Saturday: 12:00 – 4:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 – 4:00 PM
Address: 302 Royal Ave, New Westminster, BC V3L 1H7, Canada
Phone: (604) 527-4640
Official Website: Irving House Museum
Irving House Museum Reviews
Rated out of 5
Such a wonderful historic experience. The tour guides were knowledgeable, and ready and willing to answer questions. We thoroughly enjoyed visiting Irving House, a step into the past.
Shawntel Lane - 4 months ago
I recently had the pleasure of visiting Irving House, and it was a truly enjoyable experience. The historic home is beautifully preserved, offering a fascinating glimpse into life in the late 1800s. Walking through the rooms felt like stepping back in time, with authentic furnishings and intricate details that tell the story of the Irving family and the era they lived in.
Our guide was exceptionally knowledgeable, sharing rich historical facts, personal stories, and insights that brought the house and its history to life. His passion for the subject made the tour engaging from start to finish, and I left with a much deeper appreciation for this important piece of local heritage.
I highly recommend a visit to Irving House for anyone interested in history, architecture, or simply enjoying a well told story in a beautiful setting.
Salah Ayoob - a month ago
I found this site using ChatGPT when I asked for interesting sites that is less traveled. I'm really happy I saw it.
The volunteer guides are amazing and give a really in-depth account of what life was for the Irving family. It was also really great to be in a house that is completely intact and older than Canada itself. It's a free visit, but will accept donations to help with the upkeep. It is well worth the time to see.
Adam Frisch - a month ago
It was great seeing a house so well preserved in its time period and as it was being decorated for Christmas. The tour and info was fantastic. I would add more pictures but I don't want to spoil it, a visit in person is well worth the time.
Wallace Koopmans - 10 months ago
If you are into heritage houses and history, this is the place for you. I donated $2 so it was affordable to visit. I like how the tour guides shared the history of the house. It was well kept. Only downside is that it is only open on weekends. Definitely recommended!
Celina Arenillo - a year ago
Directions
| SkyTrain Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Expo Line | Columbia Station | 8 Minutes |
How to get to Irving House Museum by SkyTrain
From Columbia Station walk uphill on Fourth Street for two blocks, then turn right on Royal Avenue. The museum is about a block and a half down on your right. It's an 8-minute walk in total.
For those with mobility concerns, you can take the #105 bus from Columbia Station. Get off in front of the museum at Royal Avenue and Merivale Street.
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Accommodations near Irving House Museum:
Photo Gallery
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Photo Credit: Irving House -
Photo Credit: Adette Balot -
Photo Credit: Huỳnh Phương PPA -
Photo Credit: Celina Arenillo -
Photo Credit: Parsa Samandi
