enjoy a slice of Canadian history with all the comforts of a luxury resort
About the Sheldon Manor
Just a short ~1 hour drive from downtown Ottawa, the Sheldon Manor is ideally located for residents of Eastern Ontario, Western Quebec, and New York/Maine.
enjoy a slice of Canadian history with all the comforts of a luxury resort
About the Sheldon House
Just a short ~1 hour drive from downtown Ottawa, the Sheldon Manor is ideally located for residents of Eastern Ontario, Western Quebec, and New York/Maine.
Vacation effortlessly
For booked and busy city dwellers looking for an easy escape that makes them feel like royalty, The Sheldon Manor is the only vacation rental in Eastern Ontario that offers a perfect balance of refinement and fun, for the whole family/or the whole group chat.
Vacation Luxuriously
The Sheldon Manor has been designed to be a destination in and of itself - with four distinct sitting areas inside the home, a large heated pool, hot tub, outdoor entertaining and dining areas, lawn games, home gym, a 75" TV in the living room and TVs in both children's rooms.
Our History
The Sheldon Manor, built in 1865, is a luxury vacation rental located in a heritage home on the shores of Big Rideau Lake in Eastern Ontario.
Officially called, "The Horace Sheldon House", the home is recognized for its heritage values by the local township. It was constructed in 1865 by Horace Sheldon with sandstone quarried from the surrounding farmland and serves as a reminder of Portland's early agricultural and economic history.
Horace Sheldon was born in the United States in the late 18th century and eventually immigrated to Canada as part of the loyalist movement. Upon settling in Canada, Sheldon helped defend Canada during the War of 1812, and as a result, was granted the tract of land that the house now sits on. This was part of a grant provision established by the British government to compensate veterans for participation in the War of 1812. The Horace Sheldon House reflects the early development in the Bastard Township and stands as testament to a relationship between Loyalist immigration, military defence, the Rideau Canal, and the emergence of nearby communities.
The Horace Sheldon House and the surrounding 80 acres was historically used for agricultural purposes and for quarrying sandstone.
According to the 1851 census, Horace Sheldon owned approximately eighty acres of land and produced 120 gallons of cider, eleven pounds of maple sugar, 500 pounds of butter, 250 pounds of cheese, and sixty yards of woollen cloth.
The Horace Sheldon House recalls the early economic foundation of Portland and many surrounding communities up and down the Rideau Canal which relied upon agricultural activities. The Horace Sheldon House was constructed with sandstone which had been quarried on the Sheldon farm. Stone farmhouses were typical during Portland's early development.
Built in a variation of the Ontario Regency cottage style, the house features a symmetrical façade, a verandah with decorative trellis work, and a medium pitched gable front.
Vacation effortlessly
For booked and busy city dwellers looking for an easy escape that makes them feel like royalty, The Sheldon Manor is the only vacation rental in Eastern Ontario that offers a perfect balance of refinement and fun, for the whole family/or the whole group chat.
Vacation Luxuriously
The Sheldon Manor has been designed to be a destination in and of itself - with four distinct sitting areas inside the home, a large heated pool, hot tub, outdoor entertaining and dining areas, lawn games, home gym, a 75" TV in the living room and TVs in both children's rooms.
Our History
The Sheldon Manor, built in 1865, is a luxury vacation rental located in a heritage home on the shores of Big Rideau Lake in Eastern Ontario.
Officially called, "The Horace Sheldon House", the home is recognized for its heritage values by the local township. It was constructed in 1865 by Horace Sheldon with sandstone quarried from the surrounding farmland and serves as a reminder of Portland's early agricultural and economic history.
Horace Sheldon was born in the United States in the late 18th century and eventually immigrated to Canada as part of the loyalist movement. Upon settling in Canada, Sheldon helped defend Canada during the War of 1812, and as a result, was granted the tract of land that the house now sits on. This was part of a grant provision established by the British government to compensate veterans for participation in the War of 1812. The Horace Sheldon House reflects the early development in the Bastard Township and stands as testament to a relationship between Loyalist immigration, military defence, the Rideau Canal, and the emergence of nearby communities.
The Horace Sheldon House and the surrounding 80 acres was historically used for agricultural purposes and for quarrying sandstone.
According to the 1851 census, Horace Sheldon owned approximately eighty acres of land and produced 120 gallons of cider, eleven pounds of maple sugar, 500 pounds of butter, 250 pounds of cheese, and sixty yards of woollen cloth.
The Horace Sheldon House recalls the early economic foundation of Portland and many surrounding communities up and down the Rideau Canal which relied upon agricultural activities. The Horace Sheldon House was constructed with sandstone which had been quarried on the Sheldon farm. Stone farmhouses were typical during Portland's early development.
Built in a variation of the Ontario Regency cottage style, the house features a symmetrical façade, a verandah with decorative trellis work, and a medium pitched gable front.
your stay at The Sheldon Manor is designed to be as rich and textured as the history of the home itself.
Features & Amenities
-
Sleeps 12
Sleeps up to 12 comfortably with one queen bedroom, one king bedroom, one bedroom with two twin beds, one bedroom with two twin bunk beds and one queen murphy bed located in the den.
-
Curated Experiences
We believe in providing guests with the royal treatment by inviting them to savour the slice of Canadian history that is The Sheldon Manor. Beyond the stately sitting rooms and stunning exterior spaces, we are delighted to make your stay even more memorable with one of our curated experiences.
-
Outdoor oasis
As you step onto the manicured grounds, you're greeted by the inviting sight of an outdoor pool. Adjacent to the pool is a picturesque gazebo, offering a serene spot for al fresco dining or simply savouring a glass of wine while basking in the gentle breeze. For moments of pure relaxation, the hot tub beckons, nestled in a private corner of the deck where tranquility reigns supreme.
-
Vineyard
This stunning estate boasts an onsite vineyard, where rows of grapevines stretch towards the horizon, promising a harvest of fine wines for connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike.
-
Fully-Equipped Chef’s Kitchen
Step into a culinary paradise within this historic manor, where a beautifully equipped kitchen awaits, designed for both functionality and aesthetics. Adorned with state-of-the-art appliances, sleek countertops, and ample storage space, this kitchen is a haven for aspiring chefs and avid entertainers alike.
-
Dedicated Work Space
Discover a dedicated workspace designed to inspire productivity and creativity during your stay at The Sheldon Manor. Tucked away in a tranquil corner of the property, this thoughtfully curated workspace features a spacious desk, ergonomic chair, high-speed Wi-Fi, and ample natural light, creating an ideal environment for remote work or focused projects.
-
Rain or Shine
As the rain patters gently against the windows, indulge in a movie, complete with popcorn and your favourite snacks or take in a movie on one of our large screen televisions.
-
On-Site Gym
On-site gym with fitness equipment. After a rejuvenating workout, take advantage of our convenient laundry facilities, ensuring a hassle-free stay where every detail is designed to enhance your comfort and convenience.
Fancy a tour?
From sprawling grounds complete with an in-ground pool, hot tub, fire pit and an on-site vineyard, to luxurious accommodations for 12, get to know The Sheldon Manor.
-
![]()
Sunroom
The perfect outdoor living room
-
![]()
The Den
Sleeps 2 Guests | Queen Murphy Bed
-
![]()
Water access
Shared water access to the Big Rideau Lake
-
![]()
The Living Room
Ample room to relax & unwind
-
![]()
The Pheasant
Sleeps 2 Guests | One Queen Bed
-
![]()
The Blue Jay
Sleeps 2 Guests | Two Twin Beds
-
![]()
The Quail
Sleeps 2 Guests | One King Bed
-
![]()
The Morning Dove
Sleeps 4 Guests | Two Twin Bunks
-
![]()
The Kitchen
For all of your culinary pursuits
-
![]()
Swimming Pool
Take a relaxing dip in our outdoor heated swimming pool
-
![]()
Second Floor Bathroom
4 piece | with shower and claw foot bathtub
-
![]()
First Floor Bathroom
3 piece | with shower
-
![]()
Hot Tub
The epitome of relaxation under the stars
-
![]()
Firepit
Fancy some s’mores
Frequently Asked questions
Where is The Sheldon Manor located?
The Sheldon Manor is located in Portland, Ontario, Canada on the shores of Big Rideau Lake. We provide the complete address upon booking.
What is the closest airport?
Ottawa (YOW) is located 98km from The Sheldon Manor. Approximately a 1:20hr drive. Watertown (ART) is located 122km from The Sheldon Manor. Approximately a 1:30hr drive. Montreal (YUL) is located 244km from The Sheldon Manor. Approximately a 2:30hr drive.
How close is The Sheldon Manor to Ottawa?
Downtown Ottawa is about 112km from The Sheldon Manor. Approximately a 1 hr 15 min drive.
How many people does The Sheldon Manor accommodate?
The Sheldon Manor can accommodate up to 12 guests. There is one king bed, two queen beds (one is a Murphy bed located in the den), two twin beds, and two bunk beds (comprised of four twin beds).
Are day guests permitted?
Yes. The manor is designed as a space to share and entertain friends and family. Parties and events, however, are not permitted.
Do you have a minimum stay?
Yes. We require a minimum 2-night stay.
Is The Sheldon Manor family-friendly?
Yes! We designed The Sheldon Manor with families, groups of friends, and couples getaways in mind.
Do you allow pets?
No. As much as we love our furry friends, we do not allow pets of any kind at The Sheldon Manor.
What are your check-in and check-out times?
Check-in time is 4 p.m. and check-out time is 10 a.m. We offer self check-in to allow you to arrive and depart at your convenience.
Is smoking permitted at The Sheldon Manor?
Smoking is permitted in outdoor areas only but not in the hot tub or in the pool area.