Air Canada has announced it will resume direct flights from London Heathrow to Ottawa starting on 31 March 2025.
The new Air Canada flights, which are set to operate four times a week, is a welcome boost for both business and leisure travellers, offering a direct connection to Canada’s capital after years of limited access. This announcement signals the airline’s commitment to expanding its transatlantic routes and meeting the growing demand for seamless travel between the UK and Canada.
As the gateway to one of Canada’s most culturally rich and scenic cities, this new direct service promises to make Ottawa a prime destination for UK tourists looking to explore the country’s political heart and its year-round attractions. With flight times averaging around 7 hours and 45 minutes, Air Canada is making it easier than ever for UK travellers to discover Ottawa’s mix of historical landmarks, vibrant festivals, and outdoor adventure.
Why Ottawa?
Ottawa, often overshadowed by its more famous neighbours Toronto and Montreal, offers a unique blend of Canadian history, culture, and nature. As the capital of Canada, Ottawa is home to some of the country’s most important national landmarks and institutions, but it also boasts a thriving arts scene, world-class museums, and a culinary landscape that rivals any global city. Its relatively small size gives it a welcoming, community feel, while still offering all the excitement and variety of a large city.
One of the main draws of Ottawa is its cultural richness. The city is known for its stunning architecture, particularly in the Parliament Hill area, where Canada’s most iconic political buildings are located. Visitors can tour the Parliament buildings, explore the changing of the guard, or simply enjoy a stroll along the Rideau Canal, which transforms into the world’s largest outdoor skating rink in winter.
Ottawa also boasts a vibrant calendar of year-round events and festivals, including the famous Winterlude Festival, a celebration of all things snowy, and the Canadian Tulip Festival, which brightens the city with millions of blooming tulips each spring.
Key Details About the New Route
- Airline: Air Canada
- Departure: London Heathrow (LHR)
- Destination: Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW)
- Start Date: 31 March 2025
- Frequency: Four times a week
- Flight Duration: Approximately 7 hours, 45 minutes
This new direct route will make travelling to Ottawa more convenient than ever, eliminating the need for layovers in larger Canadian cities. For business travellers, this means more time to focus on work rather than logistics. For leisure travellers, it means more time to explore and less time in transit.
Attractions and Experiences in Ottawa
While Ottawa may not have the metropolitan buzz of Toronto or the European flair of Montreal, it makes up for it with its charm, history, and a surprising variety of activities. Here are just a few of the reasons why travellers should consider visiting Canada’s capital:
1. Parliament Hill and the Changing of the Guard
Parliament Hill is undoubtedly the crown jewel of Ottawa. The stunning Gothic Revival architecture of the buildings, including the Centre Block with its iconic Peace Tower, is a must-see for any visitor. Guided tours offer insight into Canadian politics and history, and during the summer months, visitors can watch the traditional Changing of the Guard, a spectacle of military precision and pageantry.
2. Rideau Canal
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Rideau Canal is the heartbeat of Ottawa. In summer, visitors can enjoy boating, cycling, or simply walking along its scenic banks. In the winter, the canal freezes over, transforming into the world’s largest outdoor skating rink, offering locals and tourists alike the chance to experience skating in the heart of the city.
3. World-Class Museums
Ottawa is home to some of the most important cultural institutions in Canada. The National Gallery of Canada features an impressive collection of Canadian and Indigenous art, while the Canadian Museum of History offers fascinating exhibits on the country’s past. The Canadian War Museum is another highlight, providing a sobering but necessary look at Canada’s military history.
4. Festivals Galore
No matter when you visit, there’s always something happening in Ottawa. Winter visitors can take part in Winterlude, a celebration of ice and snow with ice sculpture competitions, outdoor activities, and culinary events. Spring brings the Canadian Tulip Festival, a riot of colour celebrating the historical ties between Canada and the Netherlands. In summer, the Ottawa Bluesfest attracts music lovers from around the world, while autumn sees the arrival of harvest festivals and fall foliage tours.
Travel Time and Climate
The new direct flights from Heathrow to Ottawa will take approximately 7 hours and 45 minutes, making it a relatively quick journey for a long-haul flight. Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport is just a 20-minute drive from the city centre, making the transfer easy and convenient.
As for the weather, Ottawa experiences all four seasons, each offering a different kind of holiday experience:
- Winter (December to February): Expect cold temperatures, with averages around -10°C, but Ottawa embraces its winter with festivals, skating, and outdoor activities. Winter sports enthusiasts will find plenty to do, from skiing and snowshoeing to ice skating on the Rideau Canal.
- Spring (March to May): Temperatures begin to rise, ranging from 5°C to 15°C. Spring is tulip season, and the Canadian Tulip Festival brings the city to life with millions of blooms.
- Summer (June to August): Ottawa summers are warm, with temperatures averaging 25°C, making it perfect for outdoor activities like cycling, hiking, and kayaking. The city’s parks and green spaces come alive, and festivals such as Canada Day celebrations on 1 July are a major draw.
- Autumn (September to November): Autumn is mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. The changing colours of the trees make this a picturesque time to visit, and it’s a great season for exploring the nearby Gatineau Park, just across the river in Quebec.
Why Visit Ottawa?
While Ottawa may not be the first city that comes to mind for UK travellers heading to Canada, it offers a wealth of experiences for those who make the trip. It’s a city that combines the best of Canada’s urban culture with easy access to the great outdoors, making it ideal for a wide range of travellers.
For history buffs, the museums and landmarks provide a deep dive into Canadian culture and history. Art lovers will enjoy the National Gallery, while outdoor enthusiasts can skate on the canal or explore the nearby Gatineau Park.
Ottawa is also a fantastic destination for food lovers. The city has a thriving culinary scene, with a mix of high-end restaurants, local markets, and street food vendors. The ByWard Market is a must-visit, offering a taste of local produce, artisanal goods, and some of Canada’s best poutine.