General Information

This warm welcoming Georgian-style inn was once the Bank of Upper Canada, which was built in 1817.  The financial branch became of great importance in the Niagara-on-the-lake area after the War of 1812.  It has been noted that the Old Bank House Inn was one of the first commercial historic country inns, which has now been operating for over 100 years. 

Now accommodating 9 luxurious suites, the Old Bank House Inn provides a cozy home away from home environment.  Each suite is unique, luxurious, and offers scenic views of Lake Ontario and/or the Niagara River.  

Nestled in the heart of the historical town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, the Bank of Upper Canada Inn is situated in perfect walking distance to the main downtown area.  It is also right across the street from Queen’s Royal Park and Simcoe Park, which provide lovely walks and scenic views. 

Hours of Operation

Open Year-Round

Photo Gallery

Directions

From Toronto:

QEW exit 38B, (Hwy. 55 exit), Niagara-on-the-Lake 

Left (north) on Glendale Avenue and drive over the QEW overpass

Left (west) on York Road at lights and service centre with washrooms

Right (north) on Niagara Stone Road/Regional Road 55

Right (east) on Queen Street

Left (north) on King Street

Left on Front Street, where The Old Bank House is located at # 10

From Niagara Falls:

River Road/Niagara River Parkway north towards Niagara-on-the-Lake

Left (west) on John Street East (Kurtz Orchards will be on corner)

Right (north) on King Street

Right on Front Street, the Old Bank House is located at #10

Historical

This historical landmark is of great heritage importance for the Niagara region, due to its architectural design and historical details.  The Old Bank House played an important role for the citizens of Niagara-on-the-Lake back in the 19^th century.  It was built in 1817 by Thomas Racey, and made specifically to operate as a financial institution. 

According to Peter Strokes, the restoration architect, the two-story Georgian-style inn still has the remains of the vault within the basement of the house. 

The Old Bank House has accommodated many individuals, as well as had many individual owners.  The Old Bank House is said to have hosted the Prince and Princess of Wales in 1902, as well as HRH Crown Prince Alexander and Crown Princess Katherine Karadiordievic of Yugoslavia in 2005.  Notable owners of the property include, Samuel Street (merchant), Thomas McCormick (manager, Bank of Canada), Lewis Shickluna (shipbuilder), Henry Garrett and J Geale Dickson.

Adjacent Land Uses

Further Information

The Old Bank House Official Website

Niagara-on-the-Lake Chamber of Commerce Website

This web page was edited by Deanna Welsh in December 2009. TripClip narration by Deanna Welsh.  I would like to thank Dave Brown and Carla Carlson for their help in the creation of this page.