Step Back to 19th Century Life at Kings Landing, NB

History Tour · Prince William

Admission

Step into 19th-century New Brunswick at Kings Landing, where costumed interpreters and historic buildings bring rural life along the Wolastoq River to vivid life. Discover the sights, sounds, and stories of a bygone era just outside Fredericton.

View experience
Duration2–4 hours
LocationPrince William, New Brunswick
OperatorKings Landing, New Brunswick
Price shownCheck dates

Adventure brief

Admission

Step into 19th-century New Brunswick at Kings Landing, where costumed interpreters and historic buildings bring rural life along the Wolastoq River to vivid life. Discover the sights, sounds, and stories of a bygone era just outside Fredericton.

Kings Landing, located along the scenic Wolastoq River in Prince William, New Brunswick, offers a rare chance to immerse yourself in the rhythms of 19th-century rural life. This living history village vividly reconstructs a moment in time over 200 years ago, where traditional wooden homes, simple farmsteads, and winding dirt paths surround you with authenticity. Here, costumed interpreters embody the real residents of that era, from farmers and blacksmiths to traders and homemakers, drawing visitors into engaging scenes of everyday life.

Set on a gentle bend of the Saint John River, the site’s natural environment complements its historic significance. Rich riverbank soils and native hardwood forests define the landscape, while the nearby waterway was once essential for trade and transportation in this part of New Brunswick. The village includes meticulously restored structures, craft workshops, and gardens like the Ingraham flower garden, all rooted in local history.

Visitors can stroll among the cabins and farming fields, watch live demonstrations of traditional trades, and even take a free horse-drawn wagon ride that threads through the village. The presence of farm animals—from pigs to sheep and cows—deepens the connection to agrarian life, with a trusty farm dog named Finnegan adding warmth to the scene. Beyond the immersive experience, Kings Landing offers educational insight with a collection of over 90,000 artifacts that illuminate Atlantic Canada’s rural past.

For sustenance, the King’s Head Inn serves both heritage-inspired and contemporary dishes in a convivial setting, while the Axe & Plough Café offers lighter fare and local treats. As one of the most extensive open-air museums in the region, Kings Landing stands out as a vital link to New Brunswick’s cultural roots and outdoor heritage. Whether you spend a couple of hours or a full day, this historical site holds a distinct place in the landscape—blending natural beauty with a vivid portrait of Canada’s formative years.

Adventure tips

Plan your experience.

Curated tips for an optimal adventure.

  1. 01
    Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes

    The village paths are mostly dirt and gravel; sturdy shoes make wandering between buildings enjoyable.

    essential
  2. 02
    Bring a Water Bottle

    While food is available onsite, staying hydrated during your visit in warmer months keeps your energy up.

    info
  3. 03
    Plan 2-4 Hours for Your Visit

    To fully enjoy the village, interactions, and demonstrations, allot at least a couple of hours without rushing.

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  4. 04
    Animal Encounters Are Weather Dependent

    Farm animal appearances and wagon rides depend on conditions and animal well-being; check ahead if these are priorities.

    warning
DifficultyEasy
Duration2–4 hours
FitnessSuitable for all fitness levels; mostly flat walking on unpaved paths.
Technical skillsNone

Recommended gear

What to bring.

01

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Supportive shoes allow easy movement along gravel and dirt trails throughout the village.

Essential
02

Seasonal Outerwear

Layering is key; weather can shift quickly near the river and among open fields.

spring|fall|summer|winterEssential
03

Water Bottle

Stay hydrated during extended warm-weather visits.

summer
04

Camera or Smartphone

Capture historic architecture, village scenes, and interactive moments for lasting memories.

Local insights

Context for the journey.

Hidden gems

Nearby secrets

Ingraham flower garden showcasing heirloom plants from the 1800s, Quiet river overlook near the ferry landing for peaceful viewing of the Wolastoq

Wildlife

Local fauna

White-tailed deer often spotted in nearby forest edges, Great blue heron fishing along the Wolastoq riverbanks

History

Historic heritage

Kings Landing opened in 1974 as an open-air museum dedicated to preserving rural New Brunswick’s 19th-century heritage through living history and artefacts.

Conservation

Mindful exploration

Kings Landing emphasizes sustainable farming practices reflective of historical methods and works to minimize impacts on the river ecosystem and surrounding forests.

Photography tips

Capture the moments

Viewpoints
The main village street capturing historic buildings and interpreters, Wolastoq river bend from the ferry dock area, Ingraham flower garden paths with natural light filtering through trees
Subjects
Historic structures, Farm animals, Costumed interpreters in action
Best times
Golden hour, Late morning, Early afternoon

Frequently asked questions

Before you go.

Do I need to book my admission in advance?

No, general admission tickets can be purchased on arrival at the Welcome Centre without advance booking.

Are there food options available onsite?

Yes, the King’s Head Inn and the Axe & Plough Café offer both traditional meals and light snacks.

Is Kings Landing accessible for visitors with mobility challenges?

While much of the village features unpaved paths, some areas are accessible; please contact the site for specific accommodations.

Can I bring my pet to Kings Landing?

Pets are not permitted inside the village except for service animals.

Are there any interactive or hands-on activities for children?

Yes, many costumed interpreters engage visitors with demonstrations and activities suitable for families and children.

What types of animals can I see at Kings Landing?

Visitors can see horses, cows, pigs, sheep, chickens, roosters, geese, and meet the friendly farm dog, Finnegan.

Kings Landing, New Brunswick

Step Back to 19th Century Life at Kings Landing, NB