Do I always have to pay to visit?
No - The Parkwood Foundation is committed to ensuring community access and works to ensure that all members of the community have opportunities to enjoy this heritage site:
- There is no admission charge to view the gardens on a self-guided basis or to visit the Teahouse restaurant, Greenhouse Tearoom or Gift Shop.
- There is no admission charge to selected outdoor events.
- There is free admission to the mansion on Heritage Day (3rd Monday in February).
- Guided tour rates are usually in effect year round, but may be discounted during filming and selected events when access to certain areas may be limited.
BACK TO TOP
Who owns Parkwood?
Parkwood is owned and operated by the Parkwood Foundation, a not-for-profit charitable Ontario Corporation.
BACK TO TOP
When was Parkwood built?
Construction began in 1915 and was completed in 1917. Decorating renovations continued through the 1920's. Major structural renovations were undertaken in the 1930's.
BACK TO TOP
Who was Sam McLaughlin?
Sam McLaughlin, also referred to as R.S. McLaughlin or Colonel Sam, was the founder of General Motors of Canada, and an important figure in Canadian history as an industrialist, philanthropist and sportsman. We invite you to learn more about Sam McLaughlin.
BACK TO TOP
Are there any family members remaining?
Sam McLaughlin, Mrs. McLaughlin and their five daughters are deceased. Parkwood is pleased to remain in contact with a number of their descendents, and counts four grandchildren among the Honourary Directors of the Foundation.
BACK TO TOP
Can I choose any caterer for my event at Parkwood?
Parkwood has an exclusive arrangement with Kings Court catering for garden reception catering. Kings Court Catering would be pleased to accommodate special dietary needs or cultural catering requirements. For menu options or to request more information, visit their website: www.kingscourtcatering.com
Parkwood can provide a selection of recommended caterers for your indoor event or meeting.
BACK TO TOP
What filming has been done at Parkwood?
Parkwood’s beauty and history make it popular location for both motion picture and still photography. The mansion and gardens appear frequently in feature films, television shows and commercials, documentaries and news features. A selected list of film projects done at Parkwood can be found in the "About Parkwood" section of this website.
Parkwood has also been the subject of episodes of Canadian Gardening Television, Mark Cullen Gardening and A & E’s Americas Castles series. The site has appeared in magazines features like Today’s Bride, Wedding Bells, and Ontario Travel Discoveries and in Harry Rosen and Sheridan Nurseries catalogues, to name a few.
BACK TO TOP
Can I watch a movie being filmed at Parkwood?
No, film sets are closed to the public.
BACK TO TOP
