2024: winter time. Tour by appointment only. 2022: The young summer guides where energetic and knows their country’s history well. Symbolizing that patriotism is strong. It feels like you are at bridgerton(netflix series) when you are inside. It is free entrance but one has to go under security before going in. Not as strict as the senate security.

We struck lucky as we could not book on line to do the Governor General's Residence and were happy just to have a walk around the grounds. However, upon arrival we found there were spaces on a tour in English going in a few minutes. We were shown around by a lovely guide who was doing her first tour. She was very knowledgeable, not only about the building, the artefacts and the Governors themselves, which gave an enhanced perspective of what we were looking at. Going midweek, the grounds which contained many trees, was very quiet so we could walk about freely in peace, looking at numerous plaques where trees had been planted by many heads of state over the years. The tours are free but be prepared to have your bags searched before entry.

Rideau Hall has been the official residence and workplace of every governor general of Canada since 1867. Tours of the residence, art collection and grounds are offered all year long. The grounds are open to the public in all seasons of the year for a range of concerts, ceremonies, celebrations and sporting events. We did not enter the actual residence but spent some time enjoying the gardens. There are many trees here planted by famous people. heads of state etc. The walk was particularly enjoyable as the trees had changed colour and could be enjoyed during fall.