Welcome to Saintlo Ottawa Jail hostel

You don’t need to commit a crime to go to prison. Just book your room in a real cell block. Although we’ve added comfort, we haven’t touched the most distinctive elements, like the stone walls and iron doors in cells that are over 150 years old.

Every morning, we serve you free breakfast. We also organize tons of activities, including the prison tour. Our youth hostel is just steps from the Parliament Buildings, the Byward Market and the Rideau Canal.

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Rooms and beds


We welcome you from 15:
00

We say bye before 11:
00

Our no-extra-charge extras

Illustration - Emblème du Guaranteed Pure Milk avec des fleurs à l'intérieur

We have room (in prison) for your group

Welcome to our completely original hostel: a historic prison that’s over 150 years old. We’ve made the place a lot cozier, but we haven’t touched the stone walls or iron doors. With its practical communal areas and its many rooms, our youth hostel is just perfect for groups of ten or more people. We also offer free historical tours of the prison. How does that sound? Get in touch with our group manager.

Spend more time enjoying your trip than organizing it.

Discover our offer for groups

Free activities at the hostel

Free and affordable activities in the hood

Guided Jail Tour

tour de la prison

Jail tours

You’re not staying at the hostel, but you’d still like to visit the prison? The Saintlo Ottawa Jail is delighted to offer guided tours to the public. Perfect for an outing with family or friends.

Built in 1862, this prison has been home to some of Canada’s most notorious convicts. Transformed into an hostel five decades ago, the prison continues to captivate visitors with tales of travelers from around the world.

More details

*Free for hostel guests. See reception for details and registration.

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