When I first watched Anne of Green Gables, I wanted to know where Anne of Green Gables was filmed in PEI & Ontario. So I did the research myself.
In this blog, I'll share the real filming spots, the scenes shot there, and which places you can still visit today.
I've gathered details from fan archives, location guides, and trusted travel sources.
Here's what you'll find: PEI coastal sites, Ontario heritage villages, famous scene locations, and helpful travel tips for planning your own visit.
Famous Anne of Green Gables Scenes and Where They Were Filmed
Some scenes stand out in fans' memories more than others. The Bright River Station scene, where Matthew first meets Anne, was shot at Westfield Heritage Village in Rockton, Ontario, and the wooden platform still stands today.
The raspberry cordial tea scene was filmed on a studio set, with exterior shots near Butternut Farm in Uxbridge.
The famous ridgepole roof scene was shot at Pickering Museum Village. The Lady of Shalott boat rescue took place at Emmanuel International Centre in Stouffville.
The lighthouse scenes were filmed at Seacow Head and New London Lighthouses in PEI.
11 Anne of Green Gables Filming Locations in PEI and Ontario
Here are the 11 real spots where the 1985 series was filmed across Prince Edward Island and Ontario.
1. Seacow Head Lighthouse: Anne and Diana's Coastal Meeting Spot
This white lighthouse near Fernwood appears in scenes where Anne and Diana walk along the cliffs.
The view of the Northumberland Strait makes it a favorite stop for fans. The lighthouse was built in 1864 and still stands today.
You can visit it during summer months when access is open.
2. Dalvay by the Sea: The Real White Sands Hotel
This grand seaside inn, built in 1895, played the role of the White Sands Hotel. It's still open as a guesthouse and sits inside PEI National Park.
The wooden interiors and ocean views match what you see on screen. Many fans book a night here to feel part of the story.
3. North Rustico: The Fishing Village That Influenced Avonlea
This small harbor town has wooden boats, weathered docks, and bright homes. Several outdoor village scenes were filmed here, and it still looks much the same.
The fishing community welcomes visitors with seafood spots and walking trails. Mornings are best for quiet photos before tourists arrive.
4. New London Lighthouse: A Scenic PEI Filming Location
This short, square lighthouse stands at the entrance of New London Bay. It was used for shoreline shots and remains one of the most photographed spots on the island.
The site is close to L.M. Montgomery's birthplace, making it a double draw. Visitors can climb up for views during the warmer months.
5. Thunder Cove Beach: The Famous Red Sandstone Cliffs
The red cliffs and sea stacks at Thunder Cove appear in wide landscape shots. The beach is still public, though the path down can be steep.
The famous Teacup Rock once stood here before storms washed it away. Even without it, the views remain some of PEI's best.
6. Butternut Farm: The Real Green Gables House
Located in Uxbridge, Ontario, this private farmhouse was used as Anne's home. The white house with green trim looks just like the one fans imagine.
It's privately owned, so visitors can only view it from the road. Please respect the family's privacy and avoid stepping onto the property.
7. Westfield Heritage Village: Bright River Station
This open-air museum in Rockton, Ontario, hosted the famous train station scene. The old wooden depot is still standing and open to visitors during museum hours.
The village has over 35 heritage buildings to walk through. Costumed guides often help bring the 1800s setting to life.
8. Pickering Museum Village: Anne's Ridgepole Scene
This heritage site near Toronto was used for the rooftop dare scene. The 19th-century buildings give a true sense of small-town life from Anne's era.
The museum is open seasonally and runs themed events. Fans can stand near the spot where the famous fall happened.
9. Spadina Museum: Aunt Josephine's Mansion
This Victorian estate in Toronto served as the home of wealthy Aunt Josephine. Its grand rooms and gardens are open for tours throughout the year.
The mansion is filled with original furniture and period details. Guided tours give context on both the home and the filming.
10. Emmanuel International Centre: The Lady of Shalott Bridge
The bridge scene where Anne plays the doomed Lady of Shalott was filmed at this property in Stouffville, Ontario.
The pond and woods still look similar today. The site is private and not open for casual visits. Fans should view it only from public roads if at all.
11. Simcoe County Museum: Avonlea Schoolhouse
The one-room schoolhouse scenes were shot at this museum near Barrie, Ontario. The wooden desks and chalkboards remain, and the museum welcomes visitors.
The site has several other restored buildings to walk through. It's a quick stop for fans driving north from Toronto.
Tips for Visiting Anne of Green Gables Filming Locations
Here are some helpful tips I've put together for fans planning a trip.
- Start your trip in Toronto for Ontario sites, then fly or drive to PEI, and rent a car since public transport is limited
- Book accommodation early in summer, with options like Dalvay by the Sea, Charlottetown, Uxbridge, Stouffville, or Barrie
- Visit Thunder Cove Beach, Seacow Head Lighthouse at sunset, North Rustico Harbor at sunrise, and Westfield Heritage Village for the best photos
- Pack layers since PEI weather shifts quickly, and carry cash for small museums and rural shops
- Check site hours before visiting and respect private properties and all posted signs
Conclusion
If you've ever felt drawn to Anne's world the way I have, visiting these spots feels like stepping into the story itself.
Walking through North Rustico or standing near Butternut Farm gave me a quiet kind of joy that's hard to put into words.
I hope this guide helps you plan your own visit to the places where Anne of Green Gables was filmed in PEI & Ontario.
Have you been to any of these sites? Share your story in the comments, or pass this post along to a fellow Anne fan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the real Green Gables house located?
The real Green Gables house used in the 1985 series is Butternut Farm in Uxbridge, Ontario. It's a private property, so view it only from the road.
Was Anne of Green Gables filmed entirely in PEI?
No, the series was filmed in both PEI and Ontario. Most outdoor scenes were shot in PEI, while indoor scenes and several village shots were filmed in Ontario.
Can I visit the Bright River Station from the show?
Yes, the train station scenes were filmed at Westfield Heritage Village in Rockton, Ontario. The site is open to visitors during regular museum hours.
Is Dalvay by the Sea still open to guests?
Yes, Dalvay by the Sea still operates as a historic inn. It's located in PEI National Park and offers rooms, dining, and seaside views.
What's the best time of year to visit PEI for Anne fans?
Late June through early September is best. The weather is warm, lighthouses are open, and the countryside looks like it does in the series.
