At the Edge of Gastown
Vancouver's Most Storied Neighbourhood
A boutique heritage apartment hotel in Gastown.
Located at Columbia and Powell in downtown Vancouver, Block House puts you in the heart of the city – minutes from scenic Waterfront, bustling downtown, charming Yaletown, and historic Chinatown.
Welcome to the Neighbourhood
First established in 1867, Gastown is Vancouver’s oldest district – the site of where the city first began. Anchored by cobblestone streets, Victorian-era landmarks, and the iconic Gastown Steam Clock, the neighbourhood carries a treasured history. What started as a frontier trading post grew quickly alongside the arrival of the railway, shaping the commercial and cultural foundation of early Vancouver.
Today, Gastown’s heritage facades frame a distinctly modern energy. Independent boutiques, contemporary galleries, and design studios sit comfortably within restored brick buildings, while locally-owned cafes, acclaimed restaurants and lively cocktail bars draw both locals and visitors from morning ‘til late. A perfectly pulled espresso at Revolver? Dinner at L’Abattoir? Just around the corner.
And when you’re ready to explore, Vancouver’s iconic waterfront is minutes away, downtown is entirely walkable, and the rest of the city opens up from there.
Block House is located at
221 Columbia Street
Vancouver, BC
A Heritage Building with History
Originally built in 1893 as the “Commercial Block” – one of Vancouver’s earliest rail-adjacent commercial buildings – the two-storey heritage landmark once stood at the centre of rail-based trade. A piece of Gastown’s legacy, Block House preserves the building’s original character, while adding to its history.
Birds and the Beets
Relaxed cafe with creative daytime fare that transforms into a wine bar after 5pm.
View on block map
L'Abattoir
Industrial-chic setting for Pacific Northwest fare with a French touch.
View on block map
Revolver
Stylish coffeeshop serving ethical & fair-trade coffee brewed fresh-to-order.
View on block map
Birds and the Beets
Relaxed cafe with creative daytime fare that transforms into a wine bar after 5pm.
View on block map
L'Abattoir
Industrial-chic setting for Pacific Northwest fare with a French touch.
View on block map
Revolver
Stylish coffeeshop serving ethical & fair-trade coffee brewed fresh-to-order.
View on block mapFrequently Asked Questions
Where is Block House located?
Block House is located at 221 Columbia Street in downtown Vancouver’s charming Gastown neighbourhood, just steps from the city’s top shopping, dining, and entertainment districts.
Is Block House close to major Vancouver attractions?
Yes, Block House is located at the edge of the city’s historic Gastown and Chinatown neighbourhoods, and within walking distance of Vancouver waterfront, BC Place, Rogers Arena, as well as many top-rated and award-winning restaurants, bars, galleries, and boutiques.
How far is Block House from public transportation?
Block House is a 10 minute walk from Waterfront station, connecting to both the Canada Line and Expo Lines, plus Seabus to North Vancouver.
How far is Block House from the airport?
Block House is 30-minutes by car or a 40-minute train ride from Vancouver International Airport (YVR) via the Canada Line.
More questions? We’ve got answers. Click here for our full FAQ list.
