National Parks and National Historic Sites of Canada in Newfoundland and Labrador

Ryan Premises National Historic Site of Canada

Parks Canada / Ray Fennelly

The commercial fishery has profoundly influenced the settlement, culture, and economic development of Canada’s east coast. Learn more about the inshore, international and Labrador fisheries, and the seal hunt, at Ryan Premises National Historic Site of Canada.

Ryan Premises was once the home of James Ryan Ltd., one of Newfoundland and Labrador’s largest salt fish mercantile firms. Today, Ryan Premises National Historic Site of Canada commemorates the East Coast Fishery for the benefit and enjoyment of all Canadians.

Getting There

Ryan Premises is located in historic Bonavista, about 114 km from Clarenville via either route 230 or 235.

Making the Most of Your Visit

• Plan to spend two hours exploring the site; another five hours to visit other attractions in the area.
• The Site features the award-winning exhibit Cods, Seals and Survivors, which tells the fascinating story of Canada’s East Coast Fishery through multi-media displays, films, artifacts and dioramas.
• Discover Bonavista’s vibrant history at the Bonavista Museum, housed on-site.
• Enjoy interpretive programs, including living history, music, hands-on activities, and demonstrations of traditional skills.
• Discover our fishing heritage as you enjoy the evocative artwork displayed in the Proprietor’s House.
• View the finely-crafted furniture displayed in the exhibition Outport Furniture: Adaptation, Revival and Culture.
• Purchase a locally-made souvenir at the site’s Heritage Shop.

For Your Convenience

• Public washrooms
• Parking
• Public telephone
• Gift Shop
• Picnic facilities
• The grounds are accessible with assistance. Buildings 2,3 and 4 (Retail Store, Fish Store and Salt Shed) are fully accessible. Buildings 1 (Retail Shop) and Proprietor’s House have only ground floor accessibility.

Hours of Operation

Telephone : (709) 468-1600 (summer only)
Telephone : (709) 772-5367 (off-season)

E-mail: ryan.premises@pc.gc.ca

Season & Hours of Operation

May 15 - October 29
10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., daily

What's New

During your visit, explore our multiaward winning exhibits and the recently restored Proprietor's House. Our new living history program provides visitors with a fun opportunity to learn about the traditional fishery by chatting with employees of James Ryan circa 1900. Each visit will be different, with a variety of daily activities such as net mending and live demonstrations related to the fishery, special musical guests, art exhibits and much more! Don't miss our newest exhibit about the fascinating history and evolution of traditional Newfoundland outport furniture. Plan to spend the whole afternoon at the Ryan Premises National Historic Site this summer. This newly established site is still developing, so please call ahead for summer activity schedules.

Payment

Cash, VISA, American Express, MasterCard, and Interac

Click to go back