Stornoway (residence)

Stornoway is the official residence of the Leader of the Official Opposition in Canada. Located at 541 Acacia Avenue in Ottawa, Ontario, it has served this purpose since 1950.

The house, a 34-room mansion, was built in 1914 for Askanase family who named it "The Oaks". It was later sold to brewery owner Charles Bronfman in the 1930s. In 1950, a group of prominent citizens purchased Stornoway and donated it to the government on the understanding that it would be used as a residence for the Leader of the Opposition. This was considered a way to provide the Leader with a more suitable and secure home compared to what they might otherwise be able to afford.

The National Capital Commission is responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of Stornoway. The residence provides a space for the Leader of the Opposition to live with their family and to host meetings and events related to their political role. While the residence is provided, the Leader of the Opposition is responsible for their own food and personal expenses.

The name "Stornoway" comes from Stornoway, a town on the Isle of Lewis in Scotland. The origin of this name choice for the Ottawa residence is uncertain, but it is presumed to be a reflection of the Scottish heritage of some of the original donors.