Historic Point Ellice House in Victoria to End Public Access

The British Columbia government announced that Point Ellice House, a historic residence in Victoria’s Burnside‑Gorge neighbourhood, will cease operating as a public heritage destination. The house will remain open to visitors on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays until 21 August 2026.

Effective 2 September 2026 the province will assume responsibility for the property and is reviewing options for reopening. Built in 1861‑62 for Charles Wentworth and his wife Catherine Work, the house was later expanded by the O’Reilly family, designated a national historic site in 1966 and a provincial heritage site in 1975. Management has shifted among non‑profits, most recently Métis Nation British Columbia, which will end its operation. Since 2020 the province has invested more than C$55 million in preserving BC heritage assets.