While this site has participated in Doors Open Ontario in the past, it is not part of the current season’s program. Please check the Home page for this year’s events and participating sites.

Willistead Manor Coach Housein-person Doors Open Windsor

  • In-person
  • Full wheelchair access
  • Parking
  • Washrooms
Willistead Manor Coach House

The Willistead Manor Coach House was originally a horse stable. This summer, the main room will host a permanent exhibit telling the story of the Walker family who built Willistead Manor and who were integral to Walkerville’s formation. The Coach House is ideal for gatherings up to 60 people. Note: Willistead Manor itself will not be open to visitors.

Willistead Manor is a 36-room mansion nestled within a six-hectare (15-acre) park in the heart of Walkerville, and offers gracious accommodations for weddings, receptions, meetings and other special events. It was built in 1906 for Edward Chandler Walker, the second son of Hiram Walker, founder of the world-renowned distillery. Albert Kahn, noted Detroit architect, actually built three buildings on the estate: the Manor House, the Coach House and the Gate House. Designed in the 16th-century Tudor-Jacobean style of an English manor house, the main building was started in 1904. No expense was spared in the materials or labour. The exterior of grey limestone, quarried in Amherstburg, was hand-cut at the worksite by Scottish stonemasons specifically imported for the project. The interior is graced with rich wood panelling, detailed hand carvings and Carrera marble. The house was in the family until 1921 when it was deeded it to the town of Walkerville. Following a 1935 amalgamation, the City of Windsor inherited this magnificent building. Managed today by the City of Windsor Recreation, Culture & Parks, Willistead Manor offers seven uniquely designed rooms to rent for special occasions and events. During Digital Doors Open, take a virtual tour of this property and enjoy the beauty and elegance from another era.

Architecture

Year built: 1904-06
Building type:Museum
Architect: Albert Kahn
Architectural style:Edwardian

Dates/hours open

Sep 24, 10:00am - Sep 25, 04:00pm

Saturday and Sunday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.