Old Town Lunenburg, located in Nova Scotia, Canada, is proud of its charming townscape that looks just like a postcard. It is said to remain in the same form as when it was established as a British colonial settlement in 1753. This adorable Old Town Lunenburg once thrived as a port town. In this article, we will introduce the charm and highlights of Old Town Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Canada!
What is Old Town Lunenburg?
Old Town Lunenburg is located in Lunenburg County, Nova Scotia, Canada. Lunenburg is a small port town with a population of about 2,300. The town was established in 1753 by the British as a colonial settlement. The name "Lunenburg" is also derived from the British monarch of that time. Because the townscape from the British colonial era has been so well preserved, it was highly regarded and registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in 1995.
The urban planning for Lunenburg was based on a plan stating, “all streets must be straight, and all corners must be right angles,” and was carried out in London, England. Because the plan was executed far away in England without knowledge of the local terrain, the roads in Lunenburg are all laid out in straight lines. Lunenburg is also known for its many hills. There are places with surprisingly steep slopes, which speaks to how the plan was implemented exactly as it was.
Access to Lunenburg
The nearest airport to Lunenburg is Halifax Airport. You’ll need to transfer via Toronto, Montreal, or major U.S. cities. From Halifax Airport, it takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes by car to reach Lunenburg. There are also local tours and optional tours organized by travel agencies, so it’s a good idea to check those out when planning your visit.
Name: Lunenburg
Address: Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, Canada
Official/Related Website URL: http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/741
4 Recommended Highlights of Old Town Lunenburg
Colorful Houses
The rows of colorful and charming houses are the most iconic feature of Old Town Lunenburg. These colorful houses are wooden structures. They were built by shipbuilders, who used leftover paint from building ships when constructing the homes.
Most of the current residents of Lunenburg are said to be descendants of the original settlers. Just walking through the retro-style townscape is enjoyable. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site that you’ll definitely want to capture on camera when you visit Old Town Lunenburg.
St. John’s Anglican Church
Located in the heart of Lunenburg, St. John’s Anglican Church is a Gothic-style church built in 1753. Though it was destroyed by a fire in 2001, it was restored over the course of four years. Its white exterior and Gothic decorations leave a strong impression.
Admission is generally free for both the exterior and interior. Concerts and other events are also held there, so if your timing is right, it’s worth a visit. It’s a popular tourist attraction that many visitors stop by. Be sure to check it out when you visit Old Town Lunenburg.
Lunenburg Academy
Built in the 19th century, Lunenburg Academy is the only wooden building in Nova Scotia that remains completely intact. It carries a European atmosphere and offers glimpses of the town's history as a British colonial settlement. It was once used as a music school. Currently undergoing renovations, it is set to include an art gallery, library, and café.
Since the academy is located on a hill, it offers a panoramic view of all of Lunenburg. The exterior can be viewed for free.
Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic
Lunenburg is well known as a town with a rich fishing industry. At the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic, located along the coast, you can learn about the town’s fishing history and hear explanations from staff who once worked as actual fishermen and captains. Guided tours are also very popular. Inside the museum, there is an aquarium, various exhibitions, and a theater—providing plenty of engaging and entertaining activities. It's designed for both adults and children to enjoy.
The seafood restaurant located inside the museum is also highly recommended. Being a port town, it offers fresh seafood dishes such as lobster and mussels. There's also a gift shop, making it a great place to pick up souvenirs. Be sure to include this museum in your Lunenburg travel plans.
◎ Summary
This was an introduction to the charm and highlights of Old Town Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Canada. Be sure to capture the sight of the colorful houses in your best photos. Definitely consider visiting Old Town Lunenburg. Since it's close to Halifax, a popular tourist destination in Nova Scotia, it’s a great idea to explore both areas together.