Discovering the NCC River House in Ottawa

Beyond its natural beauty, the NCC River House holds significant historical and cultural value. Constructed between 1914 and 1925, the building designed by the architect C.P. Meredith housed the Ottawa New Edinburgh Club (ONEC) for almost a century. In 2010, the building was recognized for its longstanding links to the history of canoeing in Canada and was designated as a recognized federal heritage building. 

Between 2019 and 2023, the Riverhouse went through extensive repairs and upgrades in order to make it usable year-round. It has since then housed three different tenants: Bytown Catering, Ottawa Riverkeeper and the Ottawa New Edinburgh Club (ONEC).

The NCC River House boasts stunning natural surroundings. With the Ottawa River right under it, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of the waters and lush greenery. This tranquil setting makes it an ideal spot for relaxation and contemplation, away from the bustling city life.

If you are looking for a location for a stunning sunset, the River House and the Ottawa River are the place to go! You can even enjoy a nice sunset paddle during a sunset tour with Escape.

Throughout the year, the NCC River House hosts a variety of activities that cater to all interests.

During the summer months, you can enjoy a free, supervised swimming facility with two 25-meter swimming lanes and a general pool area, where you’ll find a basketball net and plenty of spots to relax and enjoy the sun. You’ll also find a public launch dock, from which you can launch any non-motorized boat, like a canoe or kayak.

The River House also boasts two rooms that are open to bookings, with one being a boardroom that can host up to 20 people, which can be booked by contacting the Ottawa Riverkeeper, and the other one being a ballroom, which can accommodate up to 200 people, which can be booked by contacting Bytown Catering.

It is also possible to rent single and double kayaks, paddleboards and bikes right next to the River House! Just make your way about 200 meters to the east of the River House and you’ll find Escape Tours and Rentals, where the lovely staff can get you started on a rental. It is recommended to book in advance, especially on weekends and late afternoons. Hours of operation are weather-dependent, so make sure to plan accordingly and to keep an eye on weather forecasting. During the winter, you can warm up inside the building and grab  a hot chocolate from the bistro after using the Ski Heritage East winter trail.

The River House is conveniently located in the picturesque and affluent neighborhood of Rockcliffe Park known for its lush landscapes, historic homes, and prestigious ambiance. 

Rockcliffe Park has a rich history, with many homes dating back to the early 20th century. The neighborhood retains a charming, old-world character, with tree-lined streets and well-preserved architecture.

The area is also renowned for its expansive green spaces and parks. Notable parks include Rockcliffe Park itself, which offers walking trails, scenic views of the Ottawa River, and recreational facilities.

Right at the foot of the RIver House, you’ll find the eastern part of the Ottawa River pathway, which is a multi-use shared path for bikers, runners, walkers and even cross-country skiers and snowshoers alike, going from Rockcliffe Park to Orleans, spanning over 11.7 kms.

The NCC River House and the Riverkeepers are committed to environmental stewardship and sustainable practices. As part of the NCC’s mandate to preserve Canada’s natural heritage, the building incorporates eco-friendly technologies and practices into its operations. Visitors can learn about conservation efforts along the Ottawa River and participate in initiatives aimed at protecting Ottawa’s ecosystems for future generations. In that regard, make sure to also check out the Ottawa Riverkeeper Learning Lab, where you can learn more about the history and biodiversity of the river and how you can contribute to its conservation.

Planning a visit to the NCC River House is easy, thanks to its central location and accessible amenities. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll along the river, a swim in the pool or kayaking on the river, the River House has plenty to offer. Be sure to check the NCC’s and Escape’s websites for updated information on operating hours and special events.

If you do plan on coming by car, there are two parking lots, P3 and P4 in the direct vicinity of the River House, which tend to fill up quite quickly on weekends, so plan accordingly.