Stornoway - Free Audio Guide

Stornoway is the official residence of the Leader of the Opposition in Canada, located at 541 Acacia Avenue in the Rockcliffe Park area of Ottawa. Built in 1914 by architect Allan Keefer, the mansion features a Colonial Revival architectural style and has 19 rooms, including eight bedrooms and five bathrooms. The residence became the official home for opposition leaders in 1950 and is significant for its historical and political relevance, as it has hosted various leaders over the decades, including notable figures like Lester B. Pearson and Andrew Scheer. During World War II, it was temporarily home to the Dutch royal family, adding to its rich history. Stornoway is managed by the National Capital Commission and is set on an irregularly shaped lot, with government maintenance costs of approximately $70,000 annually. The property is also notable for its proximity to Parliament Hill, being about 5.1 km away, and is surrounded by ambassadorial residences, making it a prominent landmark in Ottawa. Visitors interested in Canadian political history will find Stornoway a culturally significant site, reflecting the heritage and ongoing legacy of the country's parliamentary system.