A Royal Revival: How Picton’s Crown Jewel is Shaping the County’s Future

The waitress at the brewpub on Main Street was enjoying a slow Tuesday lunch crowd, taking the opportunity to linger and chat with the two tables she was serving. The pub, named after the infamous Lazier murder case of 1883, is called 555 Brewery. Inside, the industrial aesthetic is softened by macramé planters suspended from the ceiling, while its expansive patio provides a front-row seat to the lively atmosphere of Main Street during the fairer months. Though rents are reportedly high in the County, our waitress has no plans to return to her native East Coast. She’s one of a growing number of “city people,” as locals call them, who have decided to make the County home.

Picton, Ontario, just a three-hour drive from Ottawa, offers an inviting escape into the heart of Prince Edward County (PEC). Known for its stunning landscapes, laid-back atmosphere, and vibrant cultural life, the County draws visitors looking to unwind and recharge. Picture rolling vineyards that stretch across the countryside, sandy beaches hugging the shores of Lake Ontario, and farmland steeped in history and charm. The Town of Picton is a seamless blend of small-town hospitality and creative energy—a hub for artists, food lovers, and wine enthusiasts alike. Whether exploring local history, sipping award-winning PEC wines, or soaking in the natural beauty of Sandbanks Provincial Park with its iconic dunes, Picton offers a pace and personality all its own.

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ABOVE: While the top two floors of the façade are heritage-designated, the street level has been thoughtfully remodelled with larger windows that invite passersby into the welcoming communal space.

Header image: The Royal Hotel’s General Manager, Sol Korngold, proudly displays the hotel’s recently awarded Michelin Key plaque.