Established in 1987, the Foundation supports the Lieutenant Governor’s estate and programs.
History
BC Government House Foundation
Enhancing the legacy of Government House
Programs
Fundraising supports legacy programs of Lieutenant Governors past and present.
House & Gardens
The Foundation helps preserve and enhance Government House, its grounds and gardens.
Gala Ball
Find out more about the Foundation’s black-tie gala ball, often the social event of the year.
Rudi’s Tea Room is Open!
Rudi’s Tea Room is a casual garden café, serving lunch, sweets, and refreshments, with products sourced as close by as the Government House vegetable gardens, fruit trees and beehives. Named for Rudolph (Rudi) Hoenson, a philanthropist and longtime supporter of Government House and the Government House Foundation, you can find Rudi’s Tea Room in the historic setting of Butterworth Cottage in the Cary Castle Mews.
The Tea Room features dine-in service, as well as take-out. Reservations are not available for dine-in, and seating is first-come, first-serve.
Please note “High Tea” is not served at Rudi’s.
– RUDI’S TEA ROOM OPENS FOR THE 2026 SEASON –
HOURS
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
10:00 am – 3:00 pm
Special closure dates:
June 30, 2026
July 1, 2026
August 4-7, 2026
Closing date: Friday, August 28, 2026
Rudi’s Tea Room 2026 Menu
Updates
The 2026 Lieutenant Governor’s BC Journalism Fellows
In 2026, the Lieutenant Governor’s BC Journal Fellowship has been awarded to Tchadas Leo of CHEK News and Amanda Follett Hosgood of The Tyee. Tchadas Leo will explore how aging infrastructure, climate vulnerability, and limited emergency access … [Read More...]
British Columbia Reconciliation Award
To recognize individuals, groups and organizations who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, integrity, respect and commitment to furthering reconciliation or inspired others to continue reconciliation efforts, the Lieutenant Governor, in … [Read More...]
Recipients of the 2025 Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Maritime Achievement
The Government House Foundation, in partnership with the Maritime Museum of BC, is honoured to announce the six recipients for the 2025 Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Maritime Achievement. Kenneth Butler, a master builder and the leading authority … [Read More...]