Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, is known for its historic charm and natural beauty. However, hidden among the stunning landscapes and Victorian architecture are several abandoned places that tell stories of the past. From decaying military forts to forgotten industrial sites, these locations offer a unique and haunting exploration experience. Here are 10 of the most captivating abandoned places near Victoria.
1. Macauley Point Battery (Esquimalt, British Columbia)
Located just a short drive from downtown Victoria, Macauley Point Battery was part of the coastal defense network built to protect Esquimalt Harbour in the 19th century. The old military structures, including bunkers, gun emplacements, and tunnels, have been left to decay, creating an eerie yet fascinating destination. The overgrown paths and crumbling stone walls make it a must-visit for history buffs and urban explorers.
2. Thetis Cove Tunnels (Esquimalt, British Columbia)
Another site in Esquimalt, the Thetis Cove Tunnels, are a network of tunnels built during World War II to protect the naval base at Esquimalt. These tunnels, though mostly sealed off, still offer an eerie glimpse into the past. The abandoned site is overgrown, and the dark, claustrophobic tunnels provide a haunting atmosphere for those intrigued by wartime history.
3. Bamberton Cement Factory (Bamberton, British Columbia)
About 30 minutes north of Victoria, the Bamberton Cement Factory is a decaying industrial site that was once a thriving cement production facility in the early 1900s. The factory was abandoned in the 1980s, leaving behind rusting machinery, crumbling buildings, and overgrown structures. The eerie silence of the site, combined with its industrial decay, makes it a popular destination for photographers and explorers.
4. Fort Rodd Hill (Colwood, British Columbia)
While Fort Rodd Hill is a well-preserved National Historic Site, parts of the fort and surrounding structures have been abandoned. Built in the late 19th century, this coastal defense fort includes underground magazines, gun batteries, and lookout points that were used to defend the west coast. Some of the lesser-maintained areas, with their darkened corridors and overgrown grounds, offer a haunting experience of forgotten military history.
5. Craigflower Manor Outbuildings (Victoria, British Columbia)
Though Craigflower Manor itself has been preserved, several of its original outbuildings have been abandoned and left to decay. Built in the mid-1800s, this historic site was one of the first colonial farms in British Columbia. The overgrown barns, sheds, and other structures are slowly being overtaken by nature, creating a quiet, eerie setting that contrasts with the restored main house.
6. Gonzales Hill Observatory (Victoria, British Columbia)
Perched on Gonzales Hill, the Gonzales Hill Observatory was once used for weather monitoring in the early 1900s. Although now abandoned, the small stone building remains standing, offering stunning views of Victoria and the surrounding ocean. The decaying interior, coupled with the isolated hilltop location, gives this place a haunted feel, making it a favorite for local explorers.
7. Leechtown Ghost Town (Sooke, British Columbia)
Leechtown, located about an hour from Victoria in the wilderness near Sooke, was once a bustling gold rush town in the late 1800s. After the gold dried up, the town was abandoned, and today, only a few crumbling foundations, old machinery, and overgrown trails remain. The remote location and the remnants of the town provide a fascinating and eerie exploration opportunity for those willing to make the trek.
8. Sidney Island Brick Factory (Sidney Island, British Columbia)
Located on Sidney Island, a short ferry ride from Victoria, the Sidney Island Brick Factory was abandoned in the early 20th century after the demand for bricks decreased. The crumbling ruins of the factory, including old kilns and decaying buildings, are scattered along the shoreline. The combination of industrial decay and the island’s natural beauty makes this site a unique and eerie place to explore.
9. Discovery Island Lighthouse (Discovery Island, British Columbia)
The Discovery Island Lighthouse, located just off the coast of Victoria, was built in the late 19th century but was abandoned in the 1990s after automation took over. The lighthouse, now weathered by time and the elements, stands alone on the windswept island. Although it’s challenging to access, those who make the journey will find the lighthouse and its surrounding buildings offer a peaceful yet haunting atmosphere.
10. Cape Calverley Lighthouse (Vancouver Island, British Columbia)
About two hours north of Victoria, the Cape Calverley Lighthouse was once an essential part of the coastal navigation system. Abandoned after the lighthouse was automated, the surrounding buildings, including the keeper's house, have been left to decay. The remote and rugged location adds to the eerie feel, with the sound of crashing waves creating a haunting backdrop to this forgotten site.
Conclusion
Victoria and its surrounding areas are rich in abandoned places that offer a fascinating look into the region’s history, from crumbling military forts and forgotten industrial sites to ghost towns and decaying lighthouses. These sites provide a unique experience for urban explorers and history enthusiasts. As always, it’s essential to prioritize safety and respect property laws when exploring these places, as many are off-limits or hazardous. For those who explore responsibly, these abandoned locations near Victoria offer a haunting journey through time.
