
Heritage Acres Saanich
Step back in time at Heritage Acres Saanich, exploring historic buildings, a museum, and enjoying charming train rides. A glimpse into Victoria's rece...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Special events & lively atmosphere

Heritage Acres Saanich
Best Time
Special events & lively atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at Heritage Acres Saanich, exploring historic buildings, a museum, and enjoying charming train rides. A glimpse into Victoria's recent past.
"Absolutely LOVED this place! So rich and full of history. Loved the train, museum, and all the buildings."

🚂 Ride the Heritage Train
Don't miss the train ride! It's a highlight for all ages and offers a unique perspective of the grounds.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
There are lovely spots to enjoy a picnic lunch on the grounds. Great for families and saving money!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Buildings & Museum
Throughout the grounds
Step back in time exploring authentic buildings and artifacts from Victoria's past. A true view to Canadian heritage.

Heritage Acres Train Ride
Departs from station
Enjoy a charming train ride through the grounds, a highlight for both kids and adults. A fun family activity!

Sea Lion Medieval Market
Event grounds
Experience a unique medieval market with cosplay, crafts, and a lively atmosphere. A must-visit for fantasy fans!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Heritage Acres
Best Time for Family Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚂 Ride the Heritage Train
Don't miss the train ride! It's a highlight for all ages and offers a unique perspective of the grounds.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
There are lovely spots to enjoy a picnic lunch on the grounds. Great for families and saving money!
📅 Check Event Schedule
Look out for special events like the Sea Lion Medieval Market for a truly memorable visit.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of exploring, so wear comfortable shoes to make the most of your day.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚂 Ride the Heritage Train
Don't miss the train ride! It's a highlight for all ages and offers a unique perspective of the grounds.
🧺 Pack a Picnic
There are lovely spots to enjoy a picnic lunch on the grounds. Great for families and saving money!
📅 Check Event Schedule
Look out for special events like the Sea Lion Medieval Market for a truly memorable visit.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of exploring, so wear comfortable shoes to make the most of your day.
💰 Cash for Markets
If visiting a market like the Sea Lion Medieval Market, bring cash as some vendors may not accept cards.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors absolutely love Heritage Acres for its rich history and immersive experience. The train rides and museum are consistently praised as highlights, making it a wonderful place for families and anyone interested in Victoria's past. While generally well-received, some visitors might find specific event entry fees a bit high.
"Absolutely LOVED this place! So rich and full
Of history. Loved the train, museum, and all the buildings. Could easily spend the whole day here."
Amandeep Beesla
"A great place to get immersed in the history of Victoria’s recent past, a past that came before the tourist age. It is a place to explore the simple technology, and techniques of the last century."
Archer Krown
"Wonderful for kids! Riding the train is really fun. The museum area is astounding. It's a truly view to the past and to the Canadian Heritage."
Carlos De La Rosa (Charles X)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Heritage Acres is located at 7321 Lochside Dr, Saanichton, BC. It's accessible by car and is near the Lochside Trail, offering bike parking. Public transport options may be available; check local transit schedules for routes serving the Saanichton area.
Yes, there is free onsite parking available for visitors.
Absolutely! Heritage Acres is conveniently located next to the Lochside Trail, and they offer bike parking.
From Victoria, head north on the Pat Bay Highway (BC-17). Take the exit for Saanichton Road and follow signs towards Lochside Drive. Heritage Acres will be on your left.
While direct bus routes might vary, the location near the Lochside Trail suggests it's reachable via bus routes that service Saanichton. It's best to check BC Transit for the most current information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Operating hours can vary, especially for special events. It's recommended to check the official Heritage Acres website or their social media for the most up-to-date information on opening times and days.
Entry fees can vary, especially during special events like the Sea Lion Medieval Market, which had a $10 cash entry fee. General admission prices should be confirmed on their official channels.
For general visits, advance booking might not be necessary, but it's always a good idea to check their website. For special events, tickets may be required or recommended to be purchased in advance.
Information on discounts for seniors, children, or groups is not readily available. It's best to inquire directly with Heritage Acres or check their official website for any potential offers.
General admission typically includes access to the historic buildings, museum, and grounds. Train rides may be an additional cost or included depending on the day and any special events.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore historic buildings, visit the museum, enjoy a scenic train ride, and attend special events like medieval markets. It's a great place for families and history enthusiasts.
Yes, Heritage Acres is wonderful for kids! They particularly love the train rides and the engaging museum exhibits that offer a view to the past.
Photography is generally encouraged at Heritage Acres. It's a popular spot for filmmakers and photographers, so you'll find many scenic opportunities.
Information on guided tours is not widely advertised. However, the exhibits and buildings are designed to be explored independently, offering a self-guided journey through history.
Heritage Acres hosts various events, including farmers' markets, medieval markets, film shoots, and festivals like the Vancouver Island Feast of Fields.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While specific dining facilities might be limited, special events often feature food vendors. Bringing a picnic is a popular and recommended option for visitors.
Yes, bringing a picnic is highly encouraged and a great way to enjoy the grounds. There are many pleasant spots for outdoor dining.
Heritage Acres is located in Saanichton, which has local eateries. For a wider selection, the nearby town of Sidney or the city of Victoria offer numerous dining options.
Information about a permanent cafe or snack bar is not readily available. It's best to check their website or inquire directly, but packing snacks is always a safe bet.
Farmers' markets, like the Peninsula Country Market, often feature fresh produce, baked goods (like sourdough bread!), and artisanal foods.
📸 📸 Photography
The historic buildings, the vintage train, and the scenic grounds offer numerous picturesque opportunities. The rustic charm provides a unique backdrop for photos.
Yes, Heritage Acres is a popular location for photoshoots, including film productions and personal portrait sessions, due to its diverse historical settings.
Drone usage policies can vary. It's essential to check with Heritage Acres management regarding any restrictions or permit requirements for drone operation.
Visitors often capture the historic architecture, the train, and the natural beauty of the grounds. It's also a favored spot for themed shoots like medieval or vintage styles.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) often provides beautiful lighting for photography. Weekdays might offer fewer people in the background for a cleaner shot.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the most of your family outing, consider packing a picnic lunch to enjoy on the grounds, which is a popular and cost-effective option. Weekdays might offer a more relaxed experience with fewer crowds. Be sure to check the schedule for any special family-friendly events that might be happening during your visit.
💰 Budget Travelers
While some special events may have an entry fee (like the $10 cash entry for the Sea Lion Medieval Market), general admission often provides access to a wealth of historical content. Keep an eye out for community markets where you can find affordable local goods.
📸 Photographers & Creatives
The site's rustic charm and diverse settings have made it a popular location for film productions and professional photoshoots. Consider visiting during the 'golden hour' for optimal lighting, and weekdays can offer a less crowded environment for capturing your desired shots. Always check for any specific photography guidelines or permit requirements.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: Exploring Heritage Acres
The experience is particularly engaging for families, with the heritage train ride being a consistent crowd-pleaser. This charming journey offers a different perspective of the grounds and is often cited as a highlight for both children and adults. Beyond the main attractions, Heritage Acres also serves as a versatile venue, hosting various community events, farmers' markets, and even film productions, showcasing its ongoing relevance and appeal.
When planning your visit, consider checking their schedule for special events, such as the Sea Lion Medieval Market, which transforms the grounds into a vibrant historical reenactment. These events add an extra layer of excitement and offer unique opportunities for cosplay and cultural immersion. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as there's plenty of ground to cover, and consider packing a picnic to fully enjoy the serene and historic atmosphere.
Events and Community at Heritage Acres
Furthermore, Heritage Acres has been a chosen location for significant community events like the Vancouver Island Feast of Fields, a celebration of local agriculture and food. This highlights the site's role in connecting people with the land and local producers. The Peninsula Country Market also utilizes the space, offering visitors a chance to purchase fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products directly from local vendors.
The venue's appeal extends to the creative industries as well, with its picturesque and historic setting making it a popular choice for filmmaking and photoshoots. This diverse range of activities underscores Heritage Acres' importance as a multi-faceted destination that caters to history buffs, families, event-goers, and creatives alike.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit