About Westfield
Westfield is a stunning collection of over 35 historical buildings which has made Westfield one of the most interesting historical destinations in Ontario. Carefully restored and staffed with costumed interpreters, the buildings capture the true charm and spirit of early Canadian culture
Visitors may witness living history demonstrations and take part in guided tours of the 204-hectare site which is bordered by beautiful woodlands, meadows and trails.
More about the conservation area.
EDUCATION
Westfield also offers a variety of education programs. Groups can choose from several options, available on weekends and weekdays, that are curriculum-driven and come complete with teacher’s kits. Check out our Educational Programs.
VOLUNTEERING
Since the earliest years at Westfield, both staff and volunteers have worked hand in hand to build Westfield into the living history site that you see today. Learn more about volunteering at Westfield.
LOCATION
Westfield is located at 1049 Kirkwall Road, off Highway 8 in Rockton. For more information, call 519-621-8851 or e-mail: westfield@conservationhamilton.ca.
HOURS & EVENTS
Westfield Heritage Village Conservation Area is open seven days a week, from sunrise to sunset. At this time, the buildings are not open.
D. Glenn Kilmer and Golden (Goldie) L. MacDonell, two Brantford high school teachers, purchased 30 acres in October, 1960 at the site which later became Westfield heritage Village. They envisioned a unique project which would develop a pioneer village as a non-profit educational institution to preserve and present the 19th century rural life in Upper Canada. Their vision became a reality when Westfield was officially opened to the public on June 15, 1964.
Westfield Heritage Village is owned and operated by the Hamilton Conservation Authority.
From Hamilton
Follow Hwy. #8 north-west through Dundas, cross Hwy. #5 and continue to Kirkwall Road (also referred to Regional Road 552), just past Rockton. Turn right and follow 1.5 kilometres.
From Toronto
Take QEW west to Hwy. 403. Turn north on Hwy. #6 to Hwy. #5. Turn left on Hwy. #5 and then right on Hwy. #8 to (Kirkwall Road (also referred to as Regional Road 552) just past Rockton. Turn right and follow 1.5 kilometres.
From Cambridge
Follow Hwy. #8 south-east to Kirkwall Road (also known as Regional Road 552). Turn left and follow 1.5 kilometres.
From Brantford
Follow Hwy. #24 north to Hwy. #5 east (turn right). Travel through the Village of St. George. Several minutes along Hwy. #5, turn north (left) on Woodhill Road (just past McCoy Foundry). Cross over Hwy.#8 on to Kirkwall Road (also known as Regional Road 552) for 1.5 km to Westfield.
Westfield Heritage Village Conservation Area is open seven days a week, from sunrise to sunset, for use of the trails and natural areas.
Six Spot Tours
Small groups (up to ten people from one social circle) can pre-book a place on a “Six Spot” tour, available on Sundays and Holiday Mondays. These self-directed tours will lead you to a series of six predetermined locations in the village where you will meet with Westfield’s friendly and knowledgeable costumed interpreters. More information.
Cost is $10 per adult. Children 17 and under are free, but tickets must be pre-booked with the adult tickets. Book by calling 519-621-8851
Westfield Heritage Village is pausing for now on all its previously scheduled events and Sunday openings, however, we have many exciting new program ideas that continue the tradition of educational and entertaining opportunities while keeping staff and volunteers safe, as well as our visitors. Please check back regularly for announcements on when these new programs will be available.
Contact Us
For more information, please feel free to contact us:
Phone: 519-621-8851
Email: westfield@conservationhamilton.ca
Are Strollers permitted?
Strollers and wagons are a great way to explore the Village with your little ones. In most cases, however, Westfield historic buildings are too small to accommodate modern strollers. To help us in our preservation efforts and for the safety and comfort of other visitors, we ask that you please leave strollers and wagons outside the buildings.
May I bring my dog?
Service dogs are welcome. Friendly, well-trained pet dogs may be brought to Westfield, but there are a few rules. Dogs, including small dogs that are carried, may not enter any building. All dogs must remain on a leash and under the control and supervision of their owner. You must also clean up after your dog. On special event days and during other busy times your dog might be happier at home.
What are the admission prices?
Admission to Westfield varies depending on the activities available on the day. Please visit our admissions page for the current fees.
What do I need to know about parking?
On-site parking is available for most events but it is limited and does fill up for popular events.
Is food available?
Westfield’s food services vary with different events. Light refreshments are available on all public program days at the General Store and/or the Gift Shop. Fuller food services are available on bigger event days. Contact Westfield for specific details at 519-621-8851.
Can I bring my own food?
Yes, Westfield is an ideal location for a picnic at the tables in the outdoor picnic area or on your own blanket in the Village.
How can I pay?
Payment by cash, debit or credit card can be made at Admissions and at the Gift Shop. The General Store, Village kiosks and Ironwood restaurant are cash only.
How accessible is Westfield?
Westfield is partially accessible and is working to improve our accessibility. The roads and paths are packed fine gravel surface.. There may be areas that become soft during wet seasons. Several buildings have wheelchair accessible ramps and the washrooms are accessible. Some buildings have grab bars in place at entrances. The historic buildings can be quite small inside and may have narrow doorways or steps to enter. An all-terrain wheelchair is available on a first come, first serve basis. Please contact us in advance of your visit for full details regarding accessibility.
Is there a gift shop?
Westfield has a Gift Shop and a General Store. The Gift Shop offers many unique items and souvenirs, including locally made maple syrup. Debit, credit and cash payment is available in the Gift Shop and it is managed by the Friends of Westfield.
Can I volunteer at Westfield?
Westfield has a wide range of volunteer opportunities. In addition to being a volunteer interpreter in costume there are also opportunities for gardeners, maintenance workers, historic building restoration, costume construction and more. To find out more, visit our volunteering page.
