Barrie 
A visit to the Almaguin Highlands is an excellent opportunity to dive into the artistic side of Ontario. The area is filled with dozens of art galleries and studios open to the public and is located in small, quiet communities.
Whether you’re in the region to explore the arts and galleries or other features of Almaguin Highlands (hiking, parks, canoeing and kayaking), one public art display is a must-see for all.
What is Midlothian Castle – Screaming Heads
Midlothian Castle in Burk’s Falls is an outdoor art gallery with one distinct feature: the art pieces are formed from concrete called Screaming Heads.
Over nearly 30 years, artist Peter Camani has dedicated hundreds of hours to pouring concrete into a wide array of different sculptures. Today, his art has created a large outdoor gallery, and increasingly busier tourist attraction hidden in the Highlands.
What to Do and See at Midlothian Castle
- The outdoor art gallery sits on about 300-acres of land and features a unique castle residence surrounded by more than 100 large-scale sculptures, each around 20 feet tall and weighing up to 30 tons.
- The castle, originally a farmhouse, includes distinctive features like a fire-breathing dragon on the chimney and gargoyles perched on the fence.
- The sculptures, known as the Screaming Heads, include notable additions like the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse and the Primeval Forest—a collection of 18-foot tall concrete trees.
- The grounds are open to visitors year-round, and you can explore the trails, ponds, and sculptures throughout the property.
- While the grounds are open to the public, Midlothian Castle remains a private residence. Visitors are advised not to enter the house unless invited.
- The site hosts the Harvest Music Festival annually in September.
Exploring Burk’s Falls
Burk’s Falls is the same municipality where you’ll find the Screaming Heads. The town is east of the art gallery with a great riverfront park and trail, and a handful of picnic food options.
- The Heritage River Walk follows the banks of the Magnetawan River with nearby picnic areas and access to longer hikes.
- Burk’s Falls has a great variety when it comes to local food. Choose between locations like Cuba Mia Eatery, DiCasa Foods, Curb Your Appetite, Burk’s Falls Cafe & Grill, or The Pub.
Exploring Magnetawan
Travel west of the Midlothian Castle to find more dining, picnic areas, and walking trails in Magnetawan.
- Plan a picnic for the Magnetawan Centennial Park. The waterfront park has picnic table under the shade of tall, mature trees.
- Hike the roughly 3.5km around the Cornelia Levering Trail in the Broadmeadows Wildlife Area to enjoy a quiet and simple walk while watching for wildlife.
- Make a pit stop in Magnetawan for snacks from Blue Bus Fry Company, Tanner’s Dining, the Snack Bar, or the Magnetawan Grill And Grocery.
- A few roadside waterfalls near Magnetawan that are worth exploring include Feighan Falls and Knoefli Falls.
- Enjoy a paddle at the nearby Bernard Lake and find the boat launch area in Sundrige, north of Burk’s Falls. The lake offers about 25km of shoreline to explore.
More to See in Almaguin County
Getting to know the rest of the Almaguin Highlands is a lot like finding the exploring Midlothian Castle: there is much to see within a short stop or walk from the main roads.
- One of the greatest natural features to see in the Almaguin Highlands are the waterfalls. Whether big or small, these rushing waters create beautiful backdrops for picnics or a hike. About 20km south of Burk’s Falls is Brook’s Falls, an incredibly beautiful waterfall and surrounding area. Once parked, it is only a two minute walk to the waterfall.
- Tour more art galleries and public studios around Almaguin County on your trip to the Midlothian Castle. Nearby public galleries include the Karen Robinson Gallery (open by appointment), The Potter’s Studio & Gallery (open by appointment), or Nostalgia Antiques & Home Décor (open daily). The communities within the Highlands are also decorated with public art all around the towns.
- Those looking for a longer stay in the Almaguin Highlands will find dozens of resorts or lodges, cottage rentals, cabin rentals, and campgrounds.
Planning Your Trip – Midlothian Castle
Credit: Sean Marshall/Flickr/CC BY-NC 2.0
What: A public art installation with stone features created by Peter Camani. The sculptures resemble screaming heads and are set among several other concrete structures and sculptures. The outdoor gallery and park are open to the public daily.
Location: 981 Midlothian Rd. Burks Falls
Part of the Parry Sound District, Midlothian Castle in Burks Falls is located approximately 1-hour drive (80 km) from the town of Parry Sound, 1.75 hours drive (170 km) from Barrie, 2.5 hours (220 km) from Sudbury, 3 hours drive (270 km) from Toronto and 4 hours 30 minutes drive from Ottawa and London.
Best time to go: Late Spring to Late Fall, great for Fall Colours Trip.
For more information:
Almaguin Highlands
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