Located in the scenic countryside near Charlottetown, Green Gables House is a renowned historic site and a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Prince Edward Island (PEI). It is famously associated with L.M. Montgomery's beloved novel *Anne of Green Gables*, which has captured the hearts of readers worldwide. The house is not only a literary landmark but also a place of cultural and historical significance, offering visitors a glimpse into the life of the fictional character Anne Shirley and the author who created her.
Green Gables House is situated in the charming village of Cavendish, which is around a 30-minute drive from Charlottetown, PEI’s provincial capital. The most convenient way to reach the house is by car, and visitors can follow the scenic coastal roads to the site. The journey is straightforward and offers views of the island’s rural landscape, making it an enjoyable drive. For those without a car, public transportation options such as buses and taxis are available from Charlottetown to Cavendish.
Alternatively, cycling is a popular way to explore the region, with bike-friendly routes leading to Green Gables House from various parts of Charlottetown. There are also guided tours that include visits to Green Gables House, so visitors can take advantage of the local expertise while learning more about the area’s history and literary connections.
The weather on Prince Edward Island varies throughout the year, but the best time to visit Green Gables House is during the warmer months of spring, summer, and early fall (May to October). During this time, visitors can enjoy the lush green surroundings, beautiful gardens, and the nearby Green Gables Heritage Place trails. The weather is generally mild and pleasant, ideal for walking and exploring the estate.
In the winter months, while the house remains open for select hours, the weather can be cold, and there may be limited access to the gardens and surrounding trails due to snow. Always check the official Green Gables website for the most up-to-date information about opening hours, especially during the off-season.
Green Gables House is famous because it is the setting that inspired L.M. Montgomery’s *Anne of Green Gables*. The house and its surroundings are the primary inspiration for the story of Anne Shirley, the imaginative and spirited orphan who captures the hearts of readers. The house has been meticulously preserved to reflect the setting described in the novel, making it a popular destination for fans of the book and those interested in the author’s life and work.
Green Gables House also holds cultural significance as part of the Green Gables Heritage Place, a historic site that includes the house, the surrounding property, and additional attractions. The house is a place where visitors can connect with the legacy of both the book and its impact on PEI’s tourism, as well as the island’s broader cultural identity.
Entry to Green Gables House is available year-round, though the peak season is during the summer months when the site is fully operational. Admission fees apply for entry into the house and surrounding heritage areas, with discounts available for children, seniors, and groups. Tickets often include access to various exhibits, the nearby Haunted Wood Trail, and other attractions within the Green Gables Heritage Place. Tickets can typically be purchased at the entrance or online through the official website.
For visitors wanting to learn more about the history of the house, guided tours are available, providing a deeper understanding of the connection between the real-world Green Gables House and the fictional Anne of Green Gables. There are also interactive exhibits for children, including hands-on activities that explore the story of Anne Shirley and her adventures. Visitors can also shop for Anne-themed souvenirs at the gift shop on site.
The Green Gables House was built in the 1830s by David and Margaret MacNeill and is a beautiful example of the late Georgian architectural style that was popular during that period. The house was later acquired by L.M. Montgomery’s cousins, who lived there for many years. It is believed that Montgomery spent time at the house during her visits to her cousins, which inspired her to write about the location in *Anne of Green Gables*.
The house itself is a modest yet charming structure, featuring traditional elements like wooden beams, small windows, and quaint, country-style furnishings. The interior has been preserved to evoke the time period in which Montgomery’s characters would have lived. The rooms are filled with period furniture, artifacts, and displays that allow visitors to step back in time and imagine what life was like for Anne and her family. Outside the house, the surrounding grounds feature lush gardens, wildflower fields, and the famous “haunted woods” that are described in the novel.
Visitors to Green Gables House can enjoy a variety of activities that bring the world of Anne of Green Gables to life. Some of the top things to do include: