Bowen Island was dubbed Vancouver’s playground from the early 1900s, playing host to dance bands, boasting full-service hotels, and a plethora of fun daytime activities including baseball diamonds, tennis courts, lawn bowling, horse riding, and croquet. At Bowen Heritage you can take a step back in time and see what life was like if you came to stay.
A Little History
The Union Steamship Company started overnight excursions to the island that were so popular that they purchased the lands of early settlers like William Davies, who had established an orchard in Snug Cove by 1887. The Company built nearly 200 cottages to accommodate visitors and today, you can visit Bowen Heritage in one of those restored 1928 cottages for a taste of the heady days of the Union Steamship era. You can even stay the night in one of the upgraded cabins.
Our Tip
There’s nothing better than enjoying a cup of tea on the deck of one of the cabins, overlooking the marina, while hearing the tales of the Happy Isle. Ask about Thanksgiving on Bowen and how the apples from the orchard are used to make some yummy pies!
Visit
Visit Bowen Heritage to view photo displays, literature, maps, the Heritage Walking Tour guide and archival material. Guided tours of the Museum and Heritage Demonstration Garden may be arranged by appointment at any time and are available daily throughout the summer months. Contact them at bowenheritage@gmail.com to arrange a tour.
For more information visit them online here and check out their events section for what’s coming up next.
bowenheritage.org * 778-871-6267 * 20 Cottage Lane, Bowen Island, BC V0N 1G0, Canada
