After a multi-year $14 million renovation, the Fort Lennox National Historic Site reopened on Saturday, June 17, 2023. Located in Saint-Paul-de-l’Île-aux-Noix in the Montérégie region, Fort Lennox is a British fortification constructed between 1819 and 1829. Over the past five years, Parks Canada, the federal agency responsible for the national parks, historic sites and marine conservation areas, has worked to restore and enhance the site.
A large focus of the project was on the restoration of the soldiers’ barracks, which stands as an iconic structure at the center of the fortification. Additionally, efforts were made to enhance the overall visitor experience. Starting this summer, the public will have the opportunity to explore the island and engage in the newly curated thematic exhibition titled Passages: Experiences of this Island.
Situated on the first floor, the exhibition offers an immersive experience that recounts the captivating history of small Ile aux Noix. Spanning a remarkable 6,000 years of human occupation on the island, this exhibit sheds light on its evolution up to the present day. Alongside a wealth of captivating narratives, the exhibition showcases the site’s extensive archaeological collection.
The restoration project was funded by the Federal Infrastructure Investment Program and the collaboration from the local community and regional tourism stakeholders, including Tourisme Haut-Richelieu.
“With this project, we not only succeeded in restoring Fort Lennox, but we have also improved the experience offered to visitors,” said Pablo Rodriguez, Minister of Canadian Heritage. “By working with the community and tourism partners, we are also showcasing the historical value of the Montérégie,”
Located about 45 minutes south of Montreal, Fort Lennox makes an interesting full or half day trip. Surrounded by green spaces, visitors can bring along a picnic and spread out a blanket or use one of the available picnic tables. Take a walk around the fort and admire its unique shape and observe the wildlife that live on the island and surrounding waters.
There is no bridge or road leading to the fort, so the ferry ride over is a fun part of the whole experience. If arriving by car, there is a free parking lot right next to the visitor centre at 1-61st Avenue in St-Paul-de-l’Île-aux-Noix. The ferry boat to get to the island is included in the entrance fee during opening hours.
Fort Lennox’s 2023 operating season is as follows:
June 17 and 18, Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
June 23 to September 4, Daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
September 8 to October 9, Friday, Saturday, Sunday and public holidays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Access fees are $18.50 for adults, and youth 17 and under enter for free.
For all info, visit parks.canada.ca/lhn-nhs/qc/lennox
