The Battlefields Park

The Battlefields Park, also called the Plains of Abraham, is a large public park just outside Old Québec, at 835 Wilfrid-Laurier Avenue. Walk its trails for views over the St. Lawrence River, or pause by the cannons, monuments and Martello towers that recall the 1759 battle between French and British forces. The grounds also have picnic areas, gardens and space for sports. In summer, concerts and city celebrations bring another reason to linger; in winter, snow-covered paths make the park a place for outdoor activities.

The 1759 battlefield

The Plains of Abraham lie within Battlefields Park, southwest of the Citadel and just beyond Old Québec’s historic walls. In 1759, British forces led by General Wolfe defeated French forces under General Montcalm here. Both generals died in the conflict, which helped bring New France under British rule.

The grounds preserve reminders of that military past alongside their present-day use as public parkland. Look for cannons, commemorative plaques and monuments, as well as defensive structures and Martello towers. An interpretive centre provides further context about the battlefield. Martello Tower 1 has an exhibit focused on the life of a soldier of the period.

Trails, gardens and events

Walking routes cross the park’s broad, varied terrain. Information along the trails covers local nature, plants, flowers and trees. The grounds include a French garden, picnic spots and recreational areas, with room for walking, cycling and sports. Dogs are allowed, and the park has areas for activities such as skating and cross-country skiing in winter.

In warmer months, the park hosts concerts and larger public events. The Edwin-Bélanger bandstand is a venue for summer performances, and celebrations such as Carnaval de Québec and St. Jean de Baptiste Day have also taken place on the grounds. The park’s open lawns and river outlook make it easy to combine a history walk with time outdoors.