Watson's Mill
Built in 1860 at 5525 Dickinson Street, it's one of the few working water-powered grist mills in North America. Volunteers explain the machinery, and admission is by donation. The mill is open in the warmer months, roughly mid-May to mid-October, Wednesday to Sunday.
It's also said to be haunted: Ann Currier, the young wife of one of the founders, died in an accident on the mill floor in 1861, weeks after her wedding.
Dickinson House and Square
Across the square, Dickinson House (1867) was the mill office and general store, then the family home. Together with the Carriage Shed and a used bookstore, they make up Dickinson Square.
Farmers' market and events
- Manotick Farmers' Market: Saturdays, June to October, by the mill
- Dickinson Days: early June
- Christmas in the Village: late November
Eat and stroll
Main Street has cafés, pubs and independent shops. Walk to the dam beside the mill for river views.
Drive times are from downtown Ottawa with normal traffic. Hours and seasons change, so check the venue's own site before you go.
FAQ
When is Watson's Mill open?
In the warmer months, roughly mid-May to mid-October, usually Wednesday to Sunday. Check current hours before visiting.
Is Watson's Mill free?
Admission is by donation.
How far is Manotick from downtown Ottawa?
About 30 minutes south by car.
The weekend, sorted
One short email on Thursdays: what's worth doing in Ottawa and the Gatineau Hills this weekend, and nothing you'll skip.
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