Hatley Castle is one of Vancouver Island’s most impressive historic landmarks, built in 1908 by coal baron James Dunsmuir. The Edwardian-style castle sits on oceanfront land overlooking the Salish Sea and is now part of Royal Roads University. While the interior is sometimes restricted due to university use, the grounds and gardens are open to the public year-round.

The estate features immaculately maintained Japanese, Italian, and Rose gardens, forested walking paths, and coastal viewpoints. The surrounding old-growth forest and shoreline trails make this a perfect slow-paced stop that blends history with nature.

Gardens are best in spring and summer

Respect university property and posted signage

Dogs allowed on leash in designated areas

Popular filming location for movies & TV shows such as:

• X-Men Franchise: (X2, X-Men: The Last Stand, Deadpool, Deadpool 2, Days of Future Past, Apocalypse, Dark Phoenix)

• Smallville: (CW Series)

• Arrow: (CW Series, Queen Mansion)

• The Descendants: (Disney Movie Franchise)

• MacGyver: (Original TV Series)

• The Changeling: (1980 film)

• Masterminds: (1997 film)

• Fierce People: (2004)

• Poltergeist: The Legacy: (TV Series)

• The Boy (2016)