Short Film Alert!
The Colony of Avalon is proud to present a new cinematic look at the life of the legendary Sara Kirke. Directed by Roger Maunder (Up Sky Down Films) and written by Renee Houlihan, this short film features a powerful performance by Christa Borden. Don’t miss this beautiful tribute to one of Newfoundland’s most enduring historical figures.
Come Home To History
Looking for a fun adventure this summer? Stay tuned for more details on The Colony of Avalon’s upcoming 2026 season! You’ll be able to book your adventure by using our “Book Now” button a the top of the page to experience everything we have to offer.
Join us at the Colony of Avalon to Tour, Dig, and Discover! Tour the grounds, laboratory, and active archaeological site, all with breathtaking 360° views of the ocean, before our guides take you into the 17th-century kitchen. Dig in the active archaeological site, which has uncovered over 2 million artifacts to date, with our Archaeologist For A Day program. Discover 400 years of fascinating history from the presence of the Beothuk, to the settlements of George Calvert (First Baron Baltimore) and David Kirke, to the contemporary residents of Ferryland.
Please stay tuned for our Great Colonial Cook-off that happens each year and follow us on social media as we dig deep to bring our finds and 17th-century recipes to your home.
See you soon!
Uncovering, Preserving and Exploring History
With every scrape of an archaeologist’s trowel, stirring of a pot, or planting of a seed, we’re coming a little bit closer to understanding the history of the Colony and the lives of the people who lived here.
Established in 1621 by Sir George Calvert (the First Lord Baltimore), the Colony of Avalon is widely recognized as the best preserved early English colonial site in North America. Today, on-going work at the Colony is changing the way we understand that past.
Think early Newfoundlanders lived in hovels on a diet of fish, fish and more fish? Think all Catholics were persecuted and women were second class citizens? Think again! Imagine a place where substantial stone and timber-frame houses lined a “prettie” cobblestone street, where protestants AND catholics worshipped in peace, and a woman held most of the power!
Explore More
There is so much to do at the Colony of Avalon! Explore the resources at your fingertips before coming and exploring the history beneath your feet.
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Experiences
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The Dig Site
The Dig Site
Plan Your Trip
Make The Most Of Your Visit
Whether you’re coming directly to visit, or making us part of your trip around the Irish Loop, it’s worth planning how to make the most of the Colony of Avalon and Ferryland where we’re found.
Make sure you know where to find us, where the best picnic spots are, and what other stops are worth it on your route!
