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12 Top-Rated Things to Do in London, Ontario

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated May 1, 2023

Although nowhere near as big as its namesake "across the pond" in England, London, Ontario offers plenty of fun things to do for day trippers and overnighters alike. Many of the best may even sound a little familiar.

Fancy a stroll along the banks of the Thames River, possibly crossing over it using Blackfriars Bridge? Or perhaps doing a little shopping in Covent Garden Market before visiting St. Paul's Cathedral?

Well, you can do all of this and more in this Canadian city of just over 405,000 people. One of the best places to visit in Ontario , it's only an hour's drive away from the state of Michigan and two hours from Niagara Falls , so given its proximity to the US border, it makes for a great base to explore southwestern Ontario, and even Toronto .

A university city, London offers plenty of cultural activities for visitors to partake in. Popular pastimes for tourists here to do some sightseeing include exploring London's museums and art galleries, or taking in a performance at the historic Grand Theatre.

For those who prefer outdoor activities, London boasts numerous parks and nature preserves, each with a variety of walking trails. More rigorous activities can be enjoyed here, too. Mountain bikers and hikers are well catered to at Boler Mountain, a popular adventure center that's transformed once the snow flies into a ski destination.

To learn more about this popular Canadian tourist destination, be sure to read through the following list of the best things to do in London, Ontario.

1. Take a Stroll around Springbank Park

2. meet canada's medical hero at banting house, 3. experience the past at fanshawe pioneer village, 4. learn about ontario's history at museum london, 5. relive your childhood at london children's museum, 6. experience family fun at storybook gardens, 7. shop at covent garden market, 8. enjoy the great outdoors at boler mountain, 9. learn about canada's military history, 10. tour london's oldest home at eldon house, 11. pay a visit to st. peter's cathedral basilica, 12. pay a visit to london's newest attraction: 100 kellogg lane.

Covering an area of nearly 350 acres adjacent to the Thames River in the city's western neighborhood, Springbank Park should be at the top of your list of places to visit in London.

It's not only the city's largest public space but also the prettiest, with 30 kilometers of trails meandering gently through a mix of pleasant gardens and unspoiled wilderness. It's also the city's oldest park and has been a popular place of relaxation since the late 1800s.

Some of the best paths closely follow the river, with plenty of benches offering places to sit and enjoy the views. For those with time on their hands, why not follow the well-marked trail network all the way to the city center? Although 10 kilometers away, you can make the whole trek without once having to face any vehicle traffic.

Springbank Park is especially popular with families. In addition to its many play areas with swings and slides, it's also home to Storybook Gardens. This popular family attraction has been entertaining youngsters here since it opened in the 1950s.

Address: 1085 Commissioners Road W, London, Ontario

For a relatively small country population-wise, Canada has certainly punched above its weight in the medical field. Perhaps the country's best-known "medical hero," Sir Frederick Banting had his eureka moment that led to the discovery of insulin here in London in 1920.

Now established as a museum, Banting House National Historic Site is known the world over as the "birthplace of insulin" and is a must-visit attraction. Established in 1984, the museum exhibits artifacts and informative displays about how Banting came to make his discovery, as well as the huge impact it has had around the world. Guided tours are available, and can be booked online through the Banting House website .

The Canadian Medical Hall of Fame is a related London tourist attraction that's well worth a visit. Established in 1994, the facility's exhibit hall features displays related to the many major medical breakthroughs that have put medicine in Canada on the map, including tributes to the country's first nursing and healthcare professionals.

Address: 442 Adelaide Street N, London, Ontario

Interested in learning about the first settlers to have made their home in and around London? Then a visit to Fanshawe Pioneer Village is a must-do.

Created in 1959 and located in the Fanshawe Conservation Area, this excellent open-air museum uses hands-on activities and re-enactments to vividly portray the lives of those who settled in the area in the 1800s and into the 20th century.

Highlights of a visit include the chance to explore four authentic communities from the pioneer days to the 1920s, featuring everything from a school to a church, as well as residential homes and farmsteads.

Guides in period costumes are on hand to explain traditional crafts, such as weaving and printing, with plenty of opportunities for old and young alike to try their hand at these and a variety of other traditional disciplines.

The village also hosts numerous events throughout the year . One of the most popular is their traditional Christmas Market, featuring seasonal crafts, foods, music, and fun. The Denfield General Store sells snacks and light meals such as sandwiches, along with souvenirs and gifts.

Address: 1424 Clarke Road, London, Ontario

For those wanting to delve a little deeper into the region's history, plan a visit to Museum London . Established in the 1940s, this excellent attraction is really part art gallery and part history museum, and showcases the region's rich cultural and social history from its First Nations population to the present day.

The museum's impressive collection features over 5,000 unique works of art and some 45,000 artifacts from across Canada, with a special emphasis on the local area.

Highlights of its art collection include work from Canada's famous Group of Seven, as well as renowned artists like Paterson Ewen and Greg Curnoe. Guided tours are available, and a shop and café are located on the premises.

Also worth visiting, the Museum of Ontario Archaeology , also known as "MOA," focuses on the region's human history stretching back some 11,000 years. Highlights of a visit include the chance to tour a reconstruction of a 16th-century Iroquois village as well as related artifacts.

Fun events are also held here year-round, including a harvest festival and traditional pow-wow, as well as a popular winter festival. Guided sightseeing tours are available.

Address: 421 Ridout Street N, London, Ontario

Let's face it, 100,000 visitors can't be wrong. That's how many people, young and old alike, visit the London Children's Museum each year to sample the attraction's fun mix of hands-on exhibits and interactive displays.

Established in 1975 and the first of its kind in Canada, this museum focuses not only on subjects of interest to kids (yes, there are dinosaurs!) but also on being a kid.

The "Child Long Ago" exhibit takes kids back to an 1880s school room, and even allows them the chance to learn what it was like to teach at the time. These and other fun exhibits, all of them encouraging role-playing, deal with science, housing, and technology and were built "child size" to encourage exploration and learning.

Fun day camps are also available, along with educational programs suitable for all ages. Birthday party packages are also available.

Address: 21 Wharncliffe Road S, London, Ontario

Established over 60 years ago, the family-friendly Storybook Gardens has been a huge draw for tourism in London ever since it opened in 1968. Located in the city's popular Springbank Park, this fun theme park for kids features pretty much everything a youngster could wish for in an attraction.

Set against a backdrop of fairy tales and storytelling are farm animals in petting zoos, play zones with kid-sized buildings to explore, as well as theme park-style rides. Visiting in the summer? Then you'll want to take the kids to the always-popular splash area.

There's plenty of entertainment to be enjoyed, too, from costumed characters like Spiderman, usually seen hanging around the climbing frames, of course, to face painting. Other highlights include a pirate zone, complete with a shipwreck, a train that travels around the park, and a Ferris wheel.

Bring a picnic, or grab lunch or a snack at any one of the concession stands dotted around the park; you'll be here for anywhere from three to five hours, so kids will want to be fed!

And don't be shy to visit in the wintertime. Open year-round, it's a winter wonderland here, with fun activities including skating.

Address: 1958 Storybook Ln, London, Ontario

One of the oldest markets in Canada, London's Covent Garden Market can trace its roots back as far as 1835 and has been a staple on the city's shopping scene ever since. Open seven days a week year-round , this downtown fixture on King Street is always bustling with shoppers on the lookout for locally grown produce and fresh food.

While local farmers selling their produce are still a staple of the market, today's repertoire of vendors has expanded to cover everything from coffee roasters to cheese purveyors, gourmet food suppliers and bakers, as well as crafts, giftware, and restaurants. The addition of a daily outdoor farmers market from May to December ensures even greater selections.

Come winter, the market moves indoors to the building's upper floor, while the public square outside is turned into a skating rink.

London's Soho Street Market is also worth checking out. Set around the historic Victoria Tavern in London's Soho district, the market has a solid reputation for the quality of its food and artisan vendors, as well as its regular entertainment.

Address: Covent Garden Market Bldg, 130 King Street, London, Ontario

Set on the site of the former London Ski Club to the west of the city, Boler Mountain is a great place to visit for those who enjoy outdoor activities. In winter, it's all about the skiing and snowboarding. Although relatively small compared to the larger ski destinations that are easily accessible from Toronto , the hills and slopes can get busy.

Boasting three quad lifts and a magic carpet, it's also popular with families for its snow tubing, as well as among cross-country skiers who can choose from a number of trails to enjoy. In warmer weather, the lifts are used to carry mountain bikers wanting to test their skills on the hills and trails. There's also a treetop adventure zone that's well worth checking out.

Address: 689 Griffith Street, London, Ontario

Read More: Top-Rated Ski Resorts in Ontario

As popular among military history enthusiasts and historians as it is vacationers, the Royal Canadian Regiment Museum in Wolseley Barracks are a must-visit. Established in 2013, highlights include displays of uniforms and exhibits relating to the conflicts in which the regiment served, as well as historic vehicles and weaponry.

The Jet Aircraft Museum , located at London International Airport, is another must-see. Opened in 2009, displays feature a number of vintage jet fighter planes, as well a fascinating look at military aviation in Canada.

Another notable military attraction in London is the 1st Hussars Museum . Dedicated to the history of one of Canada's first cavalry regiments, displays cover the conflicts and the people who served in the regiment.

Address: 701 Oxford Street E, London, Ontario

Now a museum, historic Eldon House was built in 1834 and is a well-preserved reminder of the city's affluent past. Set in Harris Park, Eldon is in fact the oldest residence in London, and is well worth a visit. Guided tours delve into the history of its owners and the building, which looks much like it would have during its 19th-century heyday.

This attraction also runs a number of educational programs and workshops throughout the year, as well as seasonal events. Be sure to also spend time exploring the property's gardens, as well as Harris Park, which covers a tract of land that once belonged to the home. Numerous touring exhibits are also hosted here.

Address: 481 Ridout Street N, London, Ontario

Built in 1827, the Catholic St. Peter's Cathedral Basilica makes for a picturesque backdrop for a photo. Located in the heart of the city's downtown core, it's worth visiting during mass or a service to hear its magnificent organ. Built in 1923, the organ remains little changed since and reputedly sounds much the same as when it was installed.

The pretty St. Paul's Cathedral is also extremely picture-worthy. Built in 1844, this attractive red brick structure is the city's oldest church.

Address: 196 Dufferin Ave, London, Ontario

The newest major attraction in London also just so happens to be set in one of the city's oldest landmark buildings. Named after the former 1924 factory in which it's housed, 100 Kellogg Lane is Canada's newest and largest entertainment complex and offers no end of fun things to do for young and old alike, from shopping to dining to world-class entertainment.

Opened in 2022, this vast facility houses an artisan market with local vendors selling crafts and creative handmade products, a number of eateries, and a Hard Rock Café Hotel slated to open before the end of 2023.

A mix of indoor and outdoor spaces includes music venues and stages, plus a huge indoor adventure park, which houses family-fun activities from mini-golf to sports simulators and bocce ball courts. Better still, try your hand at the indoor ropes course, trampolines, and ziplines.

Traveling with younger kids? The indoor playground is sure to please youngsters, while the arcade with its video games will keep teens busy.

Address: 100 Kellogg Lane, London, Ontario

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Home » Travel Guides » Canada » 15 Best Things to Do in London (Ontario, Canada)

15 Best Things to Do in London (Ontario, Canada)

Although London does have a Thames River, a Covent Garden Market and a Piccadilly Street, don’t mistaken it with London, England . Instead, this London is a substantially smaller city in Southwestern Ontario that is surrounded by woodlands and farmlands. In fact, it is known as ‘The Forest City’ because when it was first formed it was done so by clearing land in the middle of a forest.

Today, the rectangular shaped city is one of Ontario’s largest municipalities, made up of commercial and residential areas. It also has numerous landmarks and attractions, as well as having a variety of things to do. When visiting this area of Canada , London should not be overlooked, as it has much to offer.

Lets explore the best things to do in London, Canada :

1. Go to the park

The 7.3 hectare Victoria Park is one of London’s major gathering places. The park was designed in 1874 as a British military base and cricket ground, but today is a recreational centre.

Victoria Park is host to numerous annual events, as well as having a bandstand, a skate park and a skating rink. It also has a number of monuments, like the cenotaph, veteran’s plaque and Boer War Monument.

An interesting activity that can be enjoyed at the park is squirrel fishing, which is due to the large population of Eastern Grey squirrels that live in the park. If you have never tried this before, it is a must.

2. Go to church

The historic St. Peter’s Cathedral Basilica dates back to August 1834, though the original log structure burned down in 1845. What stands now is a magnificent 13th century French Gothic Revival church that was built in 1851.

The cathedral features beautiful stained glass windows and a Casavant organ. In 1958, the façade’s twin towers were added, as was the Lady Chapel and the stunning interior paintings.

St. Peter’s Cathedral Basilica is home to the Roman Catholic Diocese of London. In can be visited throughout the day, or you can even go to mass.

3. Learn about the birth of insulin

Banting House is the former house of Dr. Frederick Banting; the inventor of insulin. Today, the house is a museum dedicated to his life and his discovery of insulin.

In 1997, Banting House became a National Historic Site of Canada. Inside the museum are his desk, medicine cabinet and personal artwork, amongst other things.

Visit the museum and learn about the birth of insulin by looking at artefacts and apothecary that was used to create this fantastic medicine. It is also worthwhile to wander around the adjacent Banting Square, which is home to a garden, a life-sized sculpture of the doctor, the Flame of Hope and a massive globe sculpture.

4. Wander around a museum

There are a few great museums in London that any history or art lover should visit. Of these, London Museum is the most popular.

The London Museum is home to over 5,000 works of art and 45,000 artefacts. Most of the collection was created by regional artists, though there are also numerous pieces by the famous Group of Seven on display.

The Museum of Ontario Archaeology, the Royal Canadian Regiment Museum and the Canadian Medical Hall of Fame are also great places to wander around. If you are visiting London with the kids, be sure to check out the London Regional Children’s Museum.

5. Have fun at an event

London hosts numerous festivals events throughout the year. Depending on when you are in the city, these will make your visit that much more fun and exciting.

Sunfest, which takes place every July, is the second largest world music event in the country! It is held at Victoria Park, and in addition to live music, also boasts some fantastic food from various parts of the world.

Speaking of food, the London Ribfest is another must for foodies. If you love the theatre, visit London in June during the London Fringe Theatre Festival.

6. Take a tour of a brewery

Canada’s largest brewery (Labatt) has its headquarters in London and tours of the brewery are available all year. The entire tour takes around 2 hours to complete and includes samplings.

Tours of the brewery must be booked in advance, which is easy to do by email. Anyone can take the tour, though you must be of legal drinking age to enjoy the beer samples.

There are also a few smaller breweries in London that offer tours, like the family-run Anderson Craft Ales and the Toboggan Brewing Company. If you would prefer to tour a non-alcoholic brewery, visit Booch Organic Kombucha.

7. Explore Covent Garden Market

Dating back to 1845, Covent Garden Market is a London treasure, not unlike the famous market in the UK city of the same name. The market is a landmark, filled with stalls that sell fresh meat, fruit and vegetables.

In addition to just selling raw food, Covent Garden Market is also home to restaurants, bakeries, bars and delis. You can also buy flowers, local handicrafts and chocolates, ending the day off with a massage.

From May to December the market takes it outside with their outdoor farmers’ market. Sample fresh produce and chat with the farmer’s themselves about their passion.

8. Head to the races

Just a few minutes west of London is the Delaware Speedway, which happens to be one of Canada’s oldest continuously operating tracks. The speedway opened in 1952, and since then has hosted numerous races.

Delaware Speedway has a race every Friday night between April and September. It is also home to a museum that displays original posters, programs and photos of races that have been held here.

Today, the track hosts seven different divisions of races, as well Bone Stock Chaos Cars. It has also hosted major races, including the NASCAR Canadian Tire Series, the ARCA Series, the CASCAR Super Series and the NASCAR Whelen Modified Tour.

9. Enjoy a long walk

The 109 kilometre Thames Valley Trail runs along the Thames and North Thames Rivers. The trail is paved and passes through a few of London’s parks, including Gibbons Park and Springbank Park.

The trail runs from Delaware to St. Mary’s, passing through London along the way. It is well marked at regular intervals, making it easy for you to find your way.

The Thames Valley Trail is a lovely hike and is a great way to spend a beautiful day. It offers spectacular views of the valleys and other elevated areas. Group hikes are offered, or you can enjoy it on your own.

10. Jump into a storybook

Storybook Gardens is a family-friendly amusement park that will make you and the kids feel as if you jumped right into a storybook. The park is open year-round and is home to plenty of attractions.

Rides, games, recreational activities and even animals can all be enjoyed at Storybook Gardens. You can even watch a play, explore vegetable gardens and ride a wagon.

Many of the attractions at the park are based on fairy tales, including Humpty Dumpty, the Old Woman Who Lived in a Shoe and Three Men in a Tub. In the winter you can go ice skating, while in the summer the splash park opens up.

11. Play golf, slide down a water slide or go rock climbing

All of these things (and more) can be done at East Park Golf. The golf course/amusement park is great for the whole family, with things for everyone to enjoy.

The golf course is an 18-hole, Robbie Robinson designed course that is stunningly beautiful and a great place to play. In fact, it has frequently been voted as London’s best golf course.

If golf isn’t your thing, head to the amusement park portion of East Park Golf. There, you can go rock climbing, ride a bumper car, jump in a go kart or cool off in the waterpark.

12. Go on a self-guided tour with your phone

Download the ‘Heart of London App’ onto your phone and let your personal tour guide lead you around the city, telling stories along the way. Stroll along the riverside and through the city centre, seeing all of the main sights.

The app has 90 minutes of commentary, which includes 28 stories on the history of some of London’s finest sites. These include the Eldon House, the Middlesex County Building, the London Museum and Labatt Park.

The app also tells you stories of historic moments that took place in the city, like the Battle of the Atlantic and the city’s first ever hanging! It is a fun and informative way to tour around the city on your own.

13. Head to the beach

There is no beach in London itself, but there is around 40 kilometres south of the city in Port Stanley. This harbour community sits along the north shore of Lake Erie and is a great place to spend a sunny day.

Port Stanley is home to two large sandy beaches, both of which have been given a ‘Blue Beach’ designation. There are restaurants lining the beach, as well as accommodations for those that want to spend the night.

The village is also home to numerous shops and marinas, as well as the lifting bridge across Kettle Creek. As well, there are some lovely historic homes throughout Port Stanley, so it is worthwhile to explore a little bit.

14. Spend a night in nature

There are two conservation camps not too far from London where nature lovers can truly immerse themselves in nature. Both of these areas offer camping between March and October.

The Dalewood Conservation Area consists of 25 hectares of wetlands. It has 200 served camp sites, 12 kilometres of hiking trails and an outdoor pool.

The 10 hectare Lake Whittaker Conservation Area sits along Lake Whittaker and features two beaches, a public boat launch and canoe rentals. It also has 205 campsites, some of which are serviced and some that are not.

15. Step back in time

Step back in time at the Fanshawe Pioneer Village. This open-air museum uses historical re-enactments to tell the history of the rural communities that used to be in the area.

Sitting on around 19 hectares of land, Fanshawe Pioneer Village consists of 33 structures, some of which are original and some that are replicas. It also has a collection of over 25,000 artefacts.

The village is split into four areas, each of which represents a different period in the development of the area. These date from 1820 to 1920, complete with buildings and staff dressed in costumes of that time showcasing what life was like.

15 Best Things to Do in London (Ontario, Canada):

• Go to the park
• Go to church
• Learn about the birth of insulin
• Wander around a museum
• Have fun at an event
• Take a tour of a brewery
• Explore Covent Garden Market
• Head to the races
• Enjoy a long walk
• Jump into a storybook
• Play golf, slide down a water slide or go rock climbing
• Go on a self-guided tour with your phone
• Head to the beach
• Spend a night in nature
• Step back in time

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Services and information provided to Canadians by the High Commission of Canada in the United Kingdom.

Emergency consular assistance

Canadian citizens in need of emergency consular assistance during business hours:

• by email at [email protected]
• by phone at +44 (0) 207 004 6000
• Outside of business hours, see Request emergency assistance

On this page

Adoption and surrogacy, birth abroad, child abduction, citizenship services, criminal record checks, death abroad, divorce abroad, legal matters, marriage abroad, notarial services, passport services, pensions and retirement, same-sex marriage abroad, studying abroad, visa and immigration services, voting abroad.

Refer to International adoption .

Surrogacy is legal in the United Kingdom.

Refer to Children born outside of Canada .

If your child is born outside of Canada, you do not need to register the birth in Canada.

Canadian birth certificates are available from the Vital Statistics authorities in the province or territory in which the event occurred.

The General Registrar Office provides birth, death and marriage certificates in England and Wales .

Refer to Child abduction and parenting or custody issues .

Reunite is the leading UK charity specialising in international parental child abduction. It provides advice, information and support to parents, family members and guardians, who have had a child abducted or who fear child abduction.

For information on legal advice refer to Legal matters .

For many, it is now possible and recommended to apply for proof of Canadian citizenship online . Refer to Get proof of Canadian citizenship .

For those ineligible to submit your proof of citizenship application online:

Complete your proof of citizenship application and pay your fee online . Include a copy of your online payment receipt with your application. Note the following requirements before sending your documents by mail or placing them in our drop-off box at the Pall Mall entrance of Canada House:

• include your email address with your forms
• enter “N/A” for any questions that do not apply to you
• urgent application processing is available for special cases
• Quebec birth certificates issued after January 1, 1994 are acceptable; Quebec birth certificates issued prior to January 1994 require an updated birth certificate

Mailing address:

High Commission of Canada

Attn: Consular - Citizenship Services

Canada House

Trafalgar Square

London, SW1Y 5BJ

Applications can take up to 4 weeks to review before sending to Canada for processing. You will receive a notification when we send it to Canada. We will also return your original supporting documents at that time. Check processing times of your application online.

For information on dual citizenship, see: Travelling as a dual citizen .

Payment method

Pay your application fees online .

If you are currently living in the UK and require a criminal record check to cover time spent living in Canada:

Criminal record check with fingerprints

If you are asked for a criminal record check based on fingerprints, you must have your fingerprints taken in the UK. You will also need to hire a Canadian company to digitize and forward them to the RCMP on your behalf. Refer to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) instructions . No application form is available from the RCMP. The organization you use to digitize and forward your fingerprints to the RCMP will provide you with a form. See accredited fingerprint companies .

In London you can arrange to have your fingerprints taken at Scotland Yard. Appointments may be made through the Metropolitan Police website. Outside London, please contact the regional police headquarters for your area.

Criminal record check without fingerprints

If you are asked for a criminal record check that is only based on your name and date of birth, contact local police in the area where you last resided in Canada and follow their instructions.

An internet search will provide details of private companies in Canada which assist in obtaining police certificates based on your name and date of birth.

Note: The High Commission of Canada to the UK cannot authenticate or confirm the contents of criminal record checks, other than certificates issued by the RCMP and based on fingerprints.

Refer to Death abroad . Also refer to the UK’s Register the death .

See also UK What to do when someone dies: step by step .

Find information on obtaining a UK death certificate .

Canadian death certificates are available from the Vital Statistics authorities in the province or territory in which the event occurred.

See also Pensions and retirement .

Send the deceased’s Canadian passport to the Passport Section of the High Commission by email at [email protected] . Indicate if you would like the passport cancelled and returned as a keepsake.

Find information on Canadian divorce and separation .

To get a divorce certificate, but you are unsure where your divorce was filed, consult Canadian Central Registry of Divorce Proceedings .

The High Commission of Canada cannot provide legal advice, however the following may be of assistance:

Law Society

• England and Wales
• Northern Ireland

Citizens Advice Bureau

See Ask Travel under General Consular Services for a list of lawyers in the London area.

Refer to Marriage outside Canada .

Canadian marriage certificates are available from the Vital Statistics authorities in the province or territory in which the event occurred.

The Consular section of the High Commission of Canada in London provides certain notarial services by post or by appointment, to Canadian citizens and, in limited cases, to non-Canadian citizens if the documents are intended for use in Canada. Please note that the High Commission only provides notarial services if the service is not available through a local solicitor or notary public. Instructions below will provide information about the notarial services available. Please note: Some services are only available through the provincial vital statistics office in Canada or through the Authentication section of Global Affairs Canada.

As of January 11, 2024, Canadian documents are authenticated with an apostille. The High Commission can authenticate certain documents issued by the Government of Canada or notarized in specific provinces and territories The following documents may be eligible for authentication:

• Documents issued by the Government of Canada
• Vital statistics documents issued by all provinces and territories
• New Brunswick
• Newfoundland and Labrador
• the Northwest Territories
• Nova Scotia
• Prince Edward Island

If your document was notarized in the provinces and territories listed above, the High Commission can also assist no matter where it was originally issued.

Competent authorities in the following provinces will be responsible for authenticating all other documents issued or notarized in their respective provinces. These documents must be submitted to the competent authorities and will not be authenticated at the High Commission.

• Alberta: Ministry of Justice of Alberta
• British Columbia: Ministry of the Attorney General of British Columbia
• Ontario: Ministry of Public and Business Service Delivery of Ontario
• Quebec: Ministère de la Justice du Québec
• Saskatchewan: Ministry of Justice and Attorney General of Saskatchewan

Visit Changes to authentications services in Canada for more information on how authentication services changed after the Apostille Convention took effect in Canada on January 11, 2024.

If you have questions about these services, email [email protected] .

Certified copies:

The Consular section of the High Commission of Canada in London can produce certified true copies of certain Canadian documents.

You can obtain this service by post or by appointment. In all cases, your application must include the followings:

• Original documents for which you need certified true copies
• A payment of 20$CAD per document. Complete and include the Credit Card Authorization form in your application.
• A short letter to explain your request and include instructions for the return of the document: provide the name and address of the person who will receive the documents in the UK.
• Please note: if you are requesting this service to complete your pension application in Canada, this service is offered free of charge. Please include a document to demonstrate that you are applying for certified true copies to complete your pension application in Canada.

Witness a signature, affidavit, sworn statement - by appointment only

• Documents presented by a Canadian citizen or a non-Canadian citizen for use in Canada; exceptions apply (fees apply).

If you have questions about notarial services, email [email protected] .

Note: Please gather all the necessary documents and draft any affidavit or sworn statement before presenting yourself at your appointment, but the date and your signature must be completed in front of the officer. Note that if witnesses must sign your document, both you and the witnesses must be present at the High Commission on the day of your appointment. Witnesses must have their own original official and valid pieces of identification. It is your responsibility to ensure that your witnesses meet the eligibility criteria. Your presence is mandatory for this service; please make an appointment with us.

Wills, probate and estates

Records of wills and estates are a provincial / territorial responsibility in Canada. To access these records, contact the appropriate provincial or territorial authority .

Complete the Credit Card Authorization Form .

Complete your passport application and pay your fee online . Include a copy of your online payment receipt. You can combine multiple family applications in the same envelope. Applications sent in one envelope will be returned together in one envelope along with all original documentation and your new passport.

Submit passport applications to the High Commission by mail or place in the drop-off box. We do not send receipt confirmations. We will only contact you if additional information is required.

The processing time for a passport application is currently in excess of 8 weeks.

Send by mail (we recommend a traceable method since we are unable to confirm receipt of applications).

Attn: Consular - Passport Services

Place in drop-off box Monday to Friday from 8am - 4pm (except public holidays):

• located inside the Pall Mall Street entrance of Canada House

Email [email protected] for urgent travel requirements. Enter “Urgent – Travel date (indicate the date)” in the subject line. Include the following information in your email:

• full name as it appears on the application form
• date of birth
• Royal Mail tracking number (if applicable)
• daytime telephone number

Dual Canadian citizens require a valid Canadian passport to travel to Canada.

Report a lost or stolen passport .

Stamps and visas

It is the responsibility of Canadian citizens residing in the UK to contact UK authorities to get the correct stamps in their Canadian passports showing they have a right to live and work in the UK.

If you are applying to replace your passport , the old passport will be cancelled and can be returned to you if requested on the application form. We are unable to transfer existing visas from the old passport into the new one. It is your responsibility to verify with the UK authorities as to the validity of the visa contained in your old passport and, if required, to make arrangements to have it added to your new passport.

Email passport questions to [email protected] only if an answer is not available on this website and cannot be found in the Passport Help Centre .

Pay online for all your passport services .

Refer to Benefits for Canadians living abroad .

Canadian residents in the UK will receive their Canada pension, Old Age Security and Québec pension in pounds sterling by direct deposit.

Information about veterans’ services is available from the Veterans Affairs Office of the Canadian High Commission in London by calling 020 7004 6075. Refer to Veterans Affairs Canada for additional information.

Refer to Cancel Old Age Security and Canada Pension Plan benefits if someone has passed away.

Should you require assistance to cancel public pension benefits, please provide the requested information and a scanned copy of the death certificate to the Consular Section by email at [email protected] .

The estate/relatives of the deceased may be entitled to benefits following the death.

Same sex marriages are legal. Refer to Marriages and civil partnerships in England and Wales .

Refer to Studying abroad and EduCanada .

Studying in the UK

If you are a Canadian interested in higher education in the UK, consult:

• Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) – For information on undergraduate courses online application processes for full-time study.
• UK Postgraduate Application and Statistical Service (UKPASS) – For information on all UK postgraduate studies, and an online application service for some degree courses.

For general advice on fees and funding, immigration and visas:

• UK Council for International Student Affairs
• British High Commission in Ottawa
• UK Border Force - Student visas

Refer to Travel documents – Visas .

Advice on UK entry and visas is not available from the High Commission of Canada in London. For information see Visas and immigration at GOV.UK .

• Apply to travel, study, work or immigrate to Canada .
• Find a visa application centre (VAC) to book an appointment to give your biometrics (fingerprints and photo).
• Submit an enquiry using the IRCC web form to contact a visa office.

Permanent residents of Canada: Find out how to apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD) .

Refer to Voting in an election while outside Canada .

You can also request a voting registration application for a Canadian federal election from the High Commission by email at [email protected] .

• Data Collective
• Business Events
• Visual Library

Destination Canada

Jump to section.

At Destination Canada we believe in the power of tourism. Our aspiration is to enhance the quality of life of Canadians and enrich the lives of visitors.

Our mission is to influence supply and build demand for the benefit of locals, communities and visitors through leading research, building alignment with public and private sectors, and marketing Canada nationally and abroad. In collaboration with our partners, we promote Canada as a premier four-season leisure and business tourism destination around the country and world.

Destination Canada’s approach focuses on markets where Canada’s tourism brand leads and yields the highest return on investment. We use research to drive our evidence-based marketing in nine key geographic leisure source markets: Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Japan, Mexico, South Korea, United Kingdom and the United States. In addition, our Business Events team leverage in-depth global market analysis to target international clusters aligned with Canada's priority economic sectors.

We believe that Canada's diversity, its greatest asset, is also, what touches travellers' hearts most deeply. To that end, we are committed to inclusive leadership within our workforce, workplace, and interactions with partners and travellers alike.

Destination Canada is a Crown corporation wholly owned by the Government of Canada and formed under the Canadian Tourism Commission Act. 

Together, we create the next era of travel, inspiring those with glowing hearts to fall in love with Canada.

BUILD TRUST

We believe in the expertise of our people and deepen trust with our partners by holding ourselves to the highest standards for our actions and results.

STRIVE TO LEARN

We challenge ourselves and each other to go beyond the status quo. Every day, we strive to maximize learning and embrace better ways of thinking and doing.

PASSIONATE COMMITMENT

Our shared passion and pride for Canada inspires and engages others. Our collective commitment strengthens the Canadian tourism sector.

COLLABORATE TO SUCCEED

Our achievements are the result of the diverse perspectives, experiences and contributions of our team and partners. As inclusive leaders, we listen and learn from each other because open collaboration always makes the work better.

LEAD BOLDLY

We approach our work with courage and curiosity. Leading the industry, we identify competitive advantage through an informed and creative approach that charts an ambitious path for others to follow. 

DESTINATION CANADA'S STATEMENT ON JUSTICE, EQUITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION

Destination Canada is committed to justice, equity, diversity and inclusion (J.E.D.I.).

When we commit to justice, we commit to dismantling barriers to resources and opportunities so that all individuals and communities can live a full and dignified life.  

When we commit to diversity, we commit to recognizing all the differences between us based on which we experience advantages or barriers. These differences could be based on race, ability, gender identity and more.

When we commit to equity, we commit to allocating resources and our time to ensure that everyone has the same opportunities. 

When we commit to inclusion, we commit to fostering a sense of belonging by centering, valuing and amplifying the voice, perspectives and styles of those who experience more barriers based on their identities.

As storytellers, marketers and representatives of Canada’s tourism sector, we recognize our position of influence, and the importance of our work, workplace and workforce in reflecting the many voices and places that make up Canada.

Against the backdrop of a shifting and changing social landscape,  including recognition of injustices to Indigenous peoples in Canada,  rising anti-Asian sentiment and the Black Lives Matter movement, we continue to take actions to shift and share power - creating space for equity in painting an authentic and representative picture of Canada. We look to learn on our own, seek out opportunities to learn from experts compensated for their time, and grow with the help of our partners, collaborators and role models.

Change is a continual process that, at times, can feel uncertain and difficult — but each small action that we take is a step towards creating a better Destination Canada. Like Haida author and artist Michael Nicoll Yahgulanaas’ story of the Little Hummingbird, where the tiny bird dedicates itself to putting droplets of water on the fire until it is extinguished, “I am doing what I can.”

Board of Directors angle down

• Board of Directors

Marsha’s career spans leadership roles in strategy and organizational renewal, marketing and communications, corporate social responsibility, operations management, and business innovation. She joins Destination Canada from Destination British Columbia where she served as the President and CEO since 2013.

Liza Frulla is an active member of the Canadian tourism sector and former federal and provincial Minister. She served as the CEO of the Institut de tourisme et d’hôtellerie du Québec (ITHQ) since 2015 and was a member of the Advisory Council on Jobs and the Visitor Economy.

Brenda is currently Vice Chair for the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada and also serves as the Chair for Indigenous Tourism Alberta serving hundreds of Indigenous tourism businesses across Canada. She has been active in the tourism sector for the last 22 years and is the owner of Mahikan Trails, an innovative Aboriginal owned soft adventure company specializing in Guiding, Traditional Camps, Team Building and Instructional Programs. 

Julie is an owner and entrepreneur at Banff Trail Riders. Passionate about the Canadian tourism industry and Canada’s National Parks, Julie is a torch bearer for women in tourism and a champion for small and medium sized businesses which form the cornerstone of tourism in Canada.

In the early 2000’s, Zita co-founded the Shorefast Foundation, Fogo Island Inn was one of many projects developed to benefit the community. Zita was awarded the Order of Canada in 2016 to acknowledge this work in collaboration with the community of Fogo Island.

Stan is a strong advocate for tourism, chairing various boards including as founding chair for the Adventure Tourism Association of Newfoundland, the Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism Board and Atlantic Canada Tourism.

Randy brings over 40 years of tourism experience, with an award-winning career at Disney Destinations where he was Executive Vice-President of Worldwide Sales and Travel Operations.

Benjamin is the Chief Commercial Officer of Air North, a Yukon airline. He is active in the Yukon tourism community as Treasurer and Member of the Board of Tourism Industry Association of Yukon (TIA Yukon), and as Co-Chair of the Mät'àtäna Development Committee, a committee tasked with overseeing the development of a first-of-kind high-end Indigenous tourism resort in Yukon in partnership with the Champagne and Aishihik First Nation. Ben holds an MSc in Financial Economics from the University of Oxford.

Andrew has been in the tourism industry most of his life, with a strong passion for providing exceptional hospitality in the hotel sector. Andrew is passionate about and committed to developing his community.

Martin has been Chief Executive Officer of Alliance de l’industrie touristique du Québec since 2016 and has been holding executive positions in the Québec tourism sector since 1994. He holds an MBA from the School of management science at the Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM). 

Natalie is currently Vice-President, Tourism, for Economic Development Winnipeg (Tourism Winnipeg) and has been holding executive positions in that organization since 2011. Since 2014 she has been a volunteer board member for the Festival du Voyageur Inc. for which she is currently President. She holds a Master of Arts in Tourism Management from Royal Roads University, a Bachelor of Commerce from the Ted Rogers School of Management, Ryerson University, and a Bachelor of Science in biochemistry from the University of Winnipeg. 

• Executive Team

A proud storyteller for Canada, Gloria’s 20+ years of experience in marketing and communications includes working in tourism, the arts and journalism. 

Maureen brings an unparalleled depth and diversity of experience in the tourism sector, both in Canada and globally, to ensure strong leadership and oversight of our international teams.

Gracen Chungath has a proven record of building purposeful relationships with internal and external partners. Her strategic nature and collaborative personality will be an excellent addition to Destination Canada as we develop a pan-Canadian strategy for Destination Development focusing on investment, strategic partnerships, stewardship and capacity building.

Meaghan brings an exceptional range of expertise in data-enabled competitive strategies and business agility. She is a certified CPA, CMA who holds an MBA in Management Technology from SFU’s Beedie School of Business as well as a PMP designation. 

Publications

Annual report 2023.

Corporate Plan Summary 2024-2028

Canada’s Tourism Renaissance: Our Strategy for Recovery

Quarterly Financial Report

Visit our sites

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• Entreprise (Français)

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Visa office in London, United Kingdom

To find out how and where to submit your application, see your instruction guide .

Use our Web form to:

• ask about your application
• ask a general question about a program or service
• give new information about your application
• change your contact information
• add, change or remove a representative
• report a technical problem

Visa application centre (VAC)

VACs accept applications for:

• study permits
• work permits
• visitor visas (temporary resident visa)
• travel documents for permanent residents

Find your closest VAC

IRCC offices

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Application for a Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa - TRV)

You need to give your biometrics.

In most cases, you now need to give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics) after you apply.

Find out who needs to give biometrics and how the new application process works.

Biometrics and the application process

We refer to your fingerprints and photo as biometrics. We collect biometrics for most applications. Find out what happens from when you submit your application to when you get to Canada and where biometrics fits in the process.

1. Apply for your visitor visa, study permit or work permit

If you want to visit, study or work in Canada, make sure you’re eligible to apply. Use our application guides to help fill out your application properly, then submit your application.

Avoid processing delays by sending us a complete application .

2. Get your fingerprints and photo taken

If you’re between 14 and 79 years old, you probably need to give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics).You only need to give your biometrics once every 10 years to make repeat trips to Canada easier.

• You must pay the  biometrics fee   when you submit your application.  Otherwise you may experience delays.
• Get this done  as soon as you get the letter  from us that tells you to give biometrics.
• You have  30 days  to do this from the date on the letter.

Find out who needs to give , how to give , and  where to give your biometrics .

COVID-19: Biometrics deadline

Some biometrics collection sites are closed. If the site closest to you is closed, we’ll extend your deadline to give your biometrics. Find out how COVID-19 is affecting biometrics .

3. We process your application

After we get your biometrics, we start processing your application. See how long it takes to process your application.

If we need more information from you, we’ll contact you.

4. We make a decision on your application

When we finish reviewing your application, we let you know if you’re approved to come to Canada. If you are, we issue your documents.

If your application is refused, we send you a letter that tells you why.

5. You travel to Canada (if you’re approved)

Make sure you travel with the documents we gave you. This includes travel documents like a visitor visa, study or work permits or an eTA (electronically linked to your passport).

Airline staff and border service officers at ports of entry will ask to see your travel documents. If you don’t have them, you may not be able to board your flight to Canada.

Make sure children under 18 travel with the right documents .

6. We check your identity when you arrive in Canada

When you arrive, we check your identity to make sure that you are the same person who was approved to travel to Canada. We may use your biometrics to do this.

If we can’t verify your identity, you may be detained by a border services officer. These officers help protect the health and safety of Canadians.

If the officer determines that you’re not admissible to Canada, you won’t be allowed to enter Canada. If you came by air, you’ll have to take a return flight to where you came from.

7. You’re allowed to enter Canada

If you pass the identity check and meet the entry requirements , the border services officer stamps your passport and lets you know how long you can stay in Canada. You’re normally allowed to stay in Canada for up to six months.

Children under 18 must meet the same entry requirements as adults. The border services officer may ask minor children to show other documents depending on whether the child is travelling alone or with someone.

Basic entry requirements

You must meet some basic requirements to enter Canada. You must:

• have a valid travel document, like a passport
• be in good health
• have no criminal or immigration-related convictions
• convince an immigration officer that you have ties—such as a job, home, financial assets or family—that will take you back to your home country
• convince an immigration officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your visit
• The amount of money you will need depends on how long you will stay and if you will stay in a hotel, or with friends or relatives.

Some people are not admissible to Canada, which means they are not allowed to enter the country. You can be inadmissible for several reasons, including being involved in:

• criminal activity
• human rights violations
• organized crime

You can also be inadmissible for security, health or financial reasons.

Find out more about inadmissibility .

Biometrics fee

• Individual  applicant: CAD $85
• Families applying at the same time : maximum total fee of CAD $170
• Groups of 3 or more performing artists and their staff  who apply for work permits at the same time: maximum total fee of $CAD 255

You can apply online or on paper (in specific situations) for:

• visitor visas (also known as temporary resident visas)
• super visas (for parents and grandparents)
• transit visas

Apply online

Before you apply, make sure you need a visa to enter Canada. Find out what document you need to enter Canada .

You must have both of these to apply online:

• access to a scanner or camera to create electronic copies of your documents to upload
• a valid credit card to pay with

How you apply depends on what you apply for. Select the document you want to apply for to get instructions:

Visitor visa : Option 1 of 3

Apply for a visitor visa

Super visa (for parents and grandparents) : Option 2 of 3

Apply for a super visa

Transit visa : Option 3 of 3

Apply for a transit visa

Apply on paper (in specific situations)

Before you apply , make sure you need a visa to enter Canada. Find out what document you need to enter Canada .

Read the instruction guide to get all the details to apply on paper.

• Instruction Guide 5256

Once you have read the guide, you can prepare your application package. You must select the country or territory from which you will apply to get your local visa office instructions.

Permanent residents of Canada

We do not issue temporary resident visas (TRV) to permanent residents (PR). If you are outside Canada without a valid PR card, you must apply for a permanent resident travel document (PRTD) instead. If you meet the requirements for a PRTD, you can return to Canada as a PR.

If you no longer want to be a PR, or if you know you do not meet the requirements to keep your PR status, you can voluntarily give up (renounce) your PR status to apply for a TRV.

Application for Temporary Resident Visa

You can’t fill out and save the application form using your Internet browser. To use the form, you need to:

• Use your computer (Mac or PC). The form won’t open on mobile devices (iPads, tablets, mobile phones, etc.)
• Install Adobe Reader 10 (or higher)
• Download the PDF file to your computer . Save the file in a place you can remember.
• Make sure you use Adobe Reader to open the form. Sometimes if you try to open the form directly, it will use your Internet browser to try to open it.

Note: If you are applying online , you don’t need to print and sign the form. Leave the signature section empty.

Get the form

• Application for Temporary Resident Visa [IMM 5257] (PDF, 556.66 KB) June 2019

Having issues with the form?

• I can’t open my visa application form in PDF format. What can I do?
• After clicking the “validate” button on my visa application form, nothing happens and I don’t see the barcodes. Why is this happening?

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Travel and tourism contacts

Request emergency help outside canada.

Contact information for Canadians who need emergency consular assistance

Canadian embassies and consulates

Contact information for Canadian embassies, high commissions and consulates 

Questions and feedback about travel outside Canada

Find contact information for Government of Canada departments and agencies that deal with international travel

Immigration and citizenship

Canadian passports, and visas, permanent residency and eTA applications for foreign workers, students and visitors

Crossing the border

Bringing goods across the border, travel documents, border wait times and help with current border restrictions

Airport security screening

Contacts for questions about screening people and baggage at Canadian airports 

Places to visit in Canada

National parks, historical sites and marine conservation areas 

Canadian attractions and events

Events and celebrations, museums and galleries 

Government of Canada contacts

Contacts by department or agency

Home of the True North strong and free, Canada is a wild wonderland of inspiring scenery, incredible experiences, and a vibrant cultural mosaic that spreads from coast to coast to coast.

Natural wonders

Fall colours in Canada

Where to see the spectacular northern lights in Canada

A holiday guide to Waterton Lakes National Park

8 ultimate winter activities in Canada

Something for everyone.

Discover Canada's captivating allure where welcoming metropolises meet sweeping coastlines, embodying a unique blend of wild prairies, fearless adventures, and refreshing perspectives. Whether kayaking off British Columbia, savouring Nova Scotia's lobster feast, or witnessing the mesmerising northern lights in the Yukon. Canada offers a diverse landscape that promises unforgettable experiences with true Canadian charm.

Vibrant cities

A quick guide to Vancouver

10 cultural experiences in Toronto

Exploring Montreal like a local

Top 10 attractions in Calgary

Unique experiences.

Alberta’s dark skies beckon

Ancient giants: iceberg viewing in Newfoundland & Labrador

12 ways to get closer to Indigenous cultures in Canada

Experience the wild on an arctic safari

Pack your bags.

Places to go, things to see and what to do—all neatly laid out. Begin your adventure with a travel package tailored to fit your needs. So the only surprises on your trip will be the good kind.

Follow us and share: #ExploreCanada

Board Profile - Canadian Tourism Commission

Canadian tourism commission.

The Canadian Tourism Commission is Canada’s national tourism organization. A federal Crown corporation, the CTC leads the Canadian tourism industry in marketing Canada as a premier four-season tourism destination. The Commission supports the Canadian tourism sector in generating tourism export revenues to benefit the economy. It reports to Parliament through the Minister of Industry.

Through collaboration and partnerships with the private sector, the government of Canada, and the provinces and territories, the CTC works with the tourism sector to maintain its competitiveness and to position Canada as a destination where travellers can create extra-ordinary personal experiences.

The CTC is founded on the principle of partnership between the public and private sectors. Through contributions from partners that match its own funding, the CTC is able to achieve the maximum return on investment for its tourism marketing initiatives.

Grow tourism export revenues for Canada.

Inspire the world to explore Canada.

Harness Canada’s collective voice to grow export revenues.

• Sustain a vibrant and profitable Canadian tourism industry;
• Market Canada as a desirable tourist destination;
• Support a cooperative relationship between the private sector and the governments of Canada, the provinces and the territories with respect to Canadian tourism;
• Provide information about Canadian tourism to the private sector and to the governments of Canada, the provinces and the territories.

Strategic objectives:

• Convert high-yield customers;
• Focus on markets of highest return on investment;
• Lead industry in brand relevancy and consistency;
• Respond to changing market dynamics.

Strategic priorities:

• Ensure customer relevancy;
• Increase engagement with small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) community;
• Differentiate Canada;
• Leverage exposure of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games for Canada;
• Foster organizational excellence;
• Strengthen engagement with the shareholder.

Challenges, Issues and Initiatives

Opportunities:.

• Growing demand;
• Growing interest in experiential travel;
• Growing global middle class;
• Canada’s Games in 2010;
• New market opportunities.

Challenges:

• New competition from emerging markets;
• Exchanges rates;
• Competitive funding levels;
• Increased fuel costs;
• Air access;
• Labour shortages.

Roles and Responsibilities

The Board has established the following as its key roles and responsibilities:

• provides strategic leadership and stewardship;
• provides ethical leadership and ensures integrity;
• safeguards the corporation’s resources;
• delegates authority limits and decision-making levels;
• monitors corporate performance;
• reports to the shareholder on the Board’s stewardship;
• maintains effective communications;
• oversees and monitors the CEO : performance measuring, evaluation and assessment;
• ensures an objective and professional relationship with external auditors;
• assesses the integrity of information and controls;
• establishes the corporation’s strategic planning process;
• develops vision and direction with the CEO and involves management in the process;
• identifies corporate objectives and aligns them with the corporation’s purpose;
• approves the plan or direction, often with the CEO and shareholder;
• ensures effective strategic risk management;
• ensures an effective and transparent process of Board renewal;
• determines the skill sets of directors;
• ensures effective orientation for new Board members and ongoing development for directors;
• oversees succession planning of senior management;
• approves and reviews major financial decisions;
• approves developed position descriptions for the Board, CEO , chair, committees and committee chairs;
• evaluates chair, Board and committee performance;
• consults with the CEO and senior management on the development of corporate performance measures;
• measures corporate performance and evaluates results;
• develops policy with the CEO and senior management;
• initiates periodic mandate reviews;
• conducts its own affairs, including meeting regularly.

Core Attributes, Competencies and Experience

Taking into consideration the stated Commission’s objects, vision, mission and the challenges facing the industry, a new representation strategy should include the following:

• Tourism operators with considerable stature and influence in the industry;
• Global awareness of tourism marketing issues;
• Representation from key support functions for the industry (transportation, accommodation, recreation and entertainment, travel agency services, conventions, food and beverage services, retail, finance and cultural products);
• Strategic marketing skills;
• Specific skills sets for specific purposes e.g., finance, strong governance acumen, accounting for Audit Committee;
• Experience in dealing with political and governmental organizations;
• Individuals who might become succession candidates for the next Chair of the Board.

Directors must also have the following fundamental characteristics to enable them and the Board to function appropriately:

Strategic Thinking

• Visionary and capable of addressing alternative futures;
• Ability to grasp the big picture and go beyond single-event decisions;
• Ability to consider the interests of the tourism industry as a whole.

Informed Judgement

• Ability to provide wise, thoughtful counsel;
• Ability to analyze, ask relevant questions at the strategic level;
• Ability to consider the different stakeholders’ perspectives, understand situations and problems by addressing underlying issues.

Integrity and Accountability

• Demonstrate high ethical standards and integrity;
• Be willing to act on and remain accountable for board decisions, meeting the accountabilities outlined in the law, by-laws and rules of the board;
• See oneself as serving the interests of Canadians.

Decision Making

• Comfortable with the responsible use of authority in a Board environment;
• Experienced in policy-focused decision environments and delegation of operational responsibilities;
• Demonstrated sound business judgement;
• Ability to assess and challenge management recommendations.

Analytical Understanding

• Capability of interpreting numerical information;
• Ability to read and assess financial statements;
• Skills in performing problem analysis.

Professional Experience

• Leaders in their industry or community;
• Understanding of strategic marketing;
• Understanding of tourism with a global perspective.

Financial Literacy

The ability to read and assess financial statements.

Public Policy

Experience in or knowledge of public policy.

Personal Attributes

• Demonstrated high ethical standards and integrity;
• Capable of speaking out and challenging;
• Desire to contribute to the Commission’s objects in a meaningful way;
• Ability to work as part of a group -- persuasive, assertive and flexible;
• Strong oral communication and listening skills;
• Dynamic and energetic.

Requirements/Criteria for Private Sector Directors

• Candidates must head / manage (for example CEO or COO ) or own a tourism industry private sector business;
• The Governance and Nominating Committee has the discretion to consider candidates with the expertise required to satisfy the Board’s needs. Those persons should hold a senior executive position within a major national business or must have the expertise needed by the Board;
• Candidates should be a recognized decision-maker in the industry, able to rise above their personal business interests to speak on behalf of the region or private sector sub-sector in a forum of senior private sector executives and provincial / territorial government deputy ministers responsible for tourism.

In addition, taking into the overall Board composition, other factors are considered:

• Type of business in which the candidate has direct ownership or working experience, e.g., accommodation, event, attraction, transportation, distribution channel (travel agency, tour operator);
• Scale of business in which the candidate has direct ownership or working experience, i.e., small, medium sized or large business;
• The location of the business in which the candidate has direct ownership/working experience, e.g., rural- or urban-based business;
• Other tourism industry involvement, e.g., member of a tourism industry association Board, key participant in development and/or promotion of the animation of the industry such as a festival or event;
• Consideration of provincial / territorial representation of the regional seats, taking into account which province / territory currently holds the public sector regional seat (rotation factor);
• Willingness to commit time and effort to the governance of the Commission;
• Acceptance of the code of ethics guidelines contained in By-law No 2;
• Willingness and ability, while at Board meetings or acting as a CTC Board member, to set aside personal or special interests to organizations in favour of the Commission.

Representation

The Canadian Tourism Commission Act (October 2000) establishes various criteria for the selection and appointment of directors to the Board of the Commission.

Board Size and Composition

• Board consists of not more than 26 directors including the Chairperson and the President;
• Up to 16 private sector directors (regional and national representation – see below) appointed by the Minister, with the approval of the Governor in Council, with advice from the Commission’s Governance and Nominating Committee;
• Up to 7 public sector regional directors (territorial and provincial representation – see below) appointed by the Minister, with the approval of the Governor in Council, among persons designated by the Provincial or Territorial Ministers responsible for tourism. Those ministers may designate deputy ministers, persons who are equivalent to deputy ministers or persons who are heads of provincial or territorial agencies responsible for tourism;
• The Deputy Minister of Industry is an ex officio director;
• The President and the Chairperson are appointed by the Governor in Council.

Private Sector - Regional

• A total of up to 7 directors in this category
• Must be a tourism operator
• A tourism operator is defined as an owner or manager of a private sector tourism business

Private Sector - National

• A total of up to 9 directors in this category
• Must be a tourism operator or a person with the expertise required to satisfy the Board’s needs

Working Conditions

The CTC Board of Directors meets in person three times per year in various locations across Canada. In addition, there are two conference calls annually. Board meetings are usually held over a two day period.

• All Board members are encouraged to join a Board committee (Audit, Governance and Nominating, Human Resources, Executive;
• We estimate 15-25 days annual time commitment for Board and Committee work;
• Board members’ travel expenses are reimbursed by the CTC .