About the building
Spencer Castle is a prestigious residential complex perched atop Smith Hill, centered around a heritage mansion built between 1911 and 1914 that serves as a private clubhouse for residents. The 2920 Cook Street tower is a solid steel-and-concrete building offering expansive floor plans with panoramic views of the city, mountains, and ocean. Residents enjoy resort-style amenities including an indoor pool, sauna and guest suites in the mansion, all set within beautifully manicured gardens adjacent to Summit Park.
The mansion at the centre of Spencer Castle is listed by the Victoria Heritage Foundation at 2906 Cook Street. It was built between 1911 and 1914 for architect Henry Sandham Griffith, who called it Fort Garry; Dave Spencer Jr. of the Spencer's department store family bought it in 1918, renamed it The Rocks and opened its rock gardens to the public. It was converted to suites in 1964 and became the social centre for the condominium towers built around it in the 1970s. A serious fire in January 2020 damaged part of the interior, and recent listings describe the rebuilt spa level with pool and sauna as nearly complete, alongside six guest suites, a kitchen, grand hall, billiards, games and music rooms on a four-acre garden property.
The 2920 Cook Street tower dates from 1973. A top-floor two-bedroom runs about 1,370 square feet with hot-water baseboard heat, one underground stall and guest parking, and strata fees around $740 a month. Note that a 2920 listing reports no pets, while the neighbouring 2930 tower is described as 55-plus; confirm which rules apply to which building with the strata. Summit Park's Garry oak meadow is next door.
About Victoria
Victoria’s Downtown is the vibrant heart of British Columbia’s capital city, blending historic charm with modern urban energy. It is the city’s most rapidly growing neighbourhood, attracting new residents of all ages to its mix of heritage architecture, bustling waterfront, and thriving cultural scene. With scenic harbour views and tree-lined streets, downtown Victoria offers a dynamic urban lifestyle while remaining walkable and accessible.
The area boasts a rich arts, culture, and entertainment district, featuring galleries, theatres, live music venues, and festivals throughout the year. Residents and visitors enjoy an impressive variety of dining, shopping, and service options, all within convenient walking distance. Historic and iconic landmarks, such as the Royal BC Museum, the Fairmont Empress Hotel, the provincial Parliament Buildings, and Canada’s oldest Chinatown, provide both character and a strong sense of place. The Royal and McPherson Theatres further enhance the city’s reputation as a hub for the performing arts.
Downtown Victoria’s waterfront plays a central role in community life, offering promenades, marinas, and public spaces that encourage outdoor recreation and social engagement. The combination of rich history, vibrant culture, and urban amenities makes downtown Victoria a highly desirable neighbourhood for residents who value both convenience and quality of life.
Today, Victoria continues to grow while maintaining its unique blend of heritage, modern development, and coastal beauty, making it a welcoming and dynamic place to live, work, and explore.
