Built in 1830 by Samuel George Archibald, Gowrie House is nestled in the heart of Cape Breton. Named after the village of Blair-Gowrie in Scotland, Gowrie House is enveloped in beautifully manicured gardens and is the perfect location from which to explore Cape Breton Island.

Innkeepers Clifford Matthews and Ken Tutty have owned the house since 1975 and opened this premiere accommodation in 1982. Their attention to detail resonates throughout the property, and in their service to guests.

You will have no problem feeling at home as you relax in the gardens, enjoy Gowrie House's fine cuisine and rest in one of the comfortable guest rooms.

Gowrie House has been recognized as a leader in the accommodation industry, receiving 4 1/2 stars out of 5 from the national "Canada Select" accommodation rating system.

"Our home is where your heart is!" - Gowrie House

1760 - The Archibald family came to Colchester County, Nova Scotia from Connecticut in the mid 1700's.

1800 - A descendent, Samuel George Archibald, moved to Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia in the early nineteenth century.

1830 - He built a home - named Gowrie - after the village of Blair-Gowrie in Scotland.

1832 - His youngest brother, Thomas Dickson Archibald followed him to Sydney and soon acquired Gowrie from Samuel.

1841 - Thomas joined a number of Archibald and Dickson cousins in his brother's firm, Archibald and Company. They were involved in the shipping, fishing, mining and ship-building industries and acted as general merchants, ship brokers, insurance agents and agents for the sale of Cape Breton Coal.

1854 - Thomas Archibald was appointed to represent Cape Breton Island in the legislative Council of Nova Scotia.

1860 - He was a member of Joseph Howe's Executive Council from 1860-1863.

1867 - He favoured Nova Scotia's entry into Confederation and in Oct. 1867 he was appointed to the Canadian Senate. There he supported Sir John A. McDonald while maintaining his connection with the family firm's many business interests.

1975 - Gowrie House remained the home of the Archibald family for a century and a half until it was purchased by the present owners in 1975.

1982 - Gowrie House opened its first rooms, as a bed and breakfast, to the traveling public and catered its first private dinner party. Since then, its renowned reputation for fine dining and great hospitality has steadily grown.

1991 - Gowrie House was awarded the Food Service Award by the Tourist Industry Association of Nova Scotia. 1991 also marked the end for the property's barn. Beyond repair, it was razed and its timbers used in the raising of a new Garden House to provide for four bed-sitting rooms with private bath, fireplaces, and the furnishings and comfort of the main house.

1996 - The caretaker's cottage, C.1870 was restored to create a special occasion accommodation. The perfect spot for honeymoons, anniversaries, or other romantic getaways.   The main house was modified to provide ensuite baths and air conditioning for each of the rooms.

2004 - March 29, 2004 was a sad day at Gowrie House Country Inn, with the passing of longtime owner, chef and friend Clifford Matthews.  A memorial garden has been established on the grounds to honour his vision ~ he will be greatly missed by all.

2004 - The main building at Gowrie House received all new windows and doors.  Work has begun on the front lawn to add cobblestone paths to the front door and back veranda. A beautiful new lawn is being established to further improve our outdoor wedding and events facilities.