The Baldachin Inn

At the Baldachin Inn, a wedding is held in a heritage stone building from the 1860s, overlooking the historic Rideau Canal in the village of Merrickville.

Merrickville is one of the oldest communities in Ontario, known for its many heritage designated buildings, working canal locks and a Victorian main street lined with artisan studios, antique shops and cafés. The inn sits right in the centre of it all, a short drive from Ottawa.

The building was built in 1860 and once housed the biggest department store anywhere between Chicago and Montreal. Its dining room is one of the few heritage designated interiors in the province, with stained glass and views over the canal.

Ceremonies can take place in the Courtyard Garden Patio, a sheltered outdoor space filled with flowers and historic charm.

Receptions move upstairs to the Baldachin Ballroom, a 6,000 square foot room with tall stone walls, hardwood floors and a French country feel. A rare King's Post Truss roof means there are no pillars in the way, so the whole floor is open for dancing. The ballroom seats up to 200 guests.

The kitchen serves European cooking, and Harry McLean's Pub offers a relaxed spot for guests to gather.

Guests can stay overnight in the inn's rooms and suites, each furnished in a 19th century European style. The Bridal Suite has a four poster bed, period art and a whirlpool tub, and two junior suites and eight inn rooms round out the choices.

For couples who picture vows in a garden courtyard and a night of dancing beneath stone walls beside the canal, the Baldachin Inn offers a wedding steeped in village history.