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Fort Anne National Historic Site: A Bastion of History

Explore Canada's oldest National Historic Site in Annapolis Royal, where Scottish, French, English, and Mi'kmaq histories intertwine.

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Explore Fort Anne National Historic Site in Annapolis Royal, Nova Scotia, Canada's oldest administered National Historic Site. Originally built by Scottish settlers in 1629, it witnessed centuries of conflict between the French, Scottish, English, and Mi'kmaq peoples. Walk the earthen walls and delve into the region's rich history.

A brief summary to Fort Anne National Historic Site

Local tips

  • Explore the Officers' Quarters Museum to see artifacts and exhibits about the fort's history.
  • Walk the perimeter trail along the earthen walls for views of the Annapolis River and basin.
  • Visit between June and September for the full experience, when the museum is open.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Fort Anne is located in the heart of Annapolis Royal and is easily accessible on foot from most points in the town. From the intersection of St. George Street and Prince Albert Road, walk north on St. George Street. The entrance to the Fort will be on your left in less than 5 minutes. There is no fee to enter the grounds.

  • Public Transport

    Annapolis Royal is connected to other communities in the Annapolis Valley by Kings Transit buses. From the bus stop on St. George Street, walk north towards the waterfront. The entrance to Fort Anne will be on your left in less than 5 minutes. A single fare on Kings Transit is approximately $3.50.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Annapolis Royal. From the Digby ferry terminal (35-42 km away), a taxi to Fort Anne would cost approximately $45-$55. Pre-booking with Annapolis Royal & Bridgetown Taxi or Annapolis Valley Travel is recommended. From anywhere in town, expect to pay a minimal fare.

  • Parking

    If driving, follow St. George Street into Annapolis Royal. Fort Anne is located at 323 St. George Street. There is a designated visitor parking area at the site. Parking availability may be limited, especially during peak season. Alternate parking is available near the Farmer's Market on Lower Street, George Street, and on St. George Street itself. Parking fees may apply depending on the time of year.

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Discover more about Fort Anne National Historic Site

Fort Anne National Historic Site, located in Annapolis Royal, Nova Scotia, is a window into Canada's colonial past. As the country's first administered National Historic Site, designated in 1917, Fort Anne stands on land contested by Scottish, French, and English settlers, with the Mi'kmaq people often drawn into the conflicts. The site's story began in 1629 when Scottish settlers constructed Charles Fort. For the next 120 years, the area, known as Port Royal and later Annapolis Royal, served as the capital of Acadia and Nova Scotia, under both French and British rule. The fort was strategically important in the battles for control of the region. The British ultimately gained control in 1713. The last military engagement at the fort occurred in 1781, during the American Revolutionary War. Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved star-shaped earthwork fortifications, a classic example of Vauban-style military architecture. The Officers' Quarters Museum (built 1797-99, renovated in the 1930s) houses exhibits and artifacts detailing the fort's history. A tapestry depicts 400 years of the area's history. The grounds are open year-round, while the museum is open from mid-May to mid-October.

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