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Halifax's Old Town Clock
Halifax's iconic 19th-century clock tower, a gift from royalty, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the city's rich history.
The Old Town Clock, a prominent landmark in Halifax, Nova Scotia, has faithfully marked time since 1803. A gift from Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, it stands as a testament to the city's history and British heritage.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Old Town Clock
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Halifax Town Clock, Brunswick St, Halifax, Downtown Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3J 3Y3, CA
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Getting There
Walking
If you're in downtown Halifax, the Old Town Clock is easily accessible on foot. From the Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk, walk north on Lower Water Street, turn left onto George Street, continue onto Barrington Street, then turn right onto Duke Street, and finally turn left onto Brunswick Street. The Old Town Clock will be on your left. This walk offers a scenic view of the city's historic architecture.
Public Transport
To reach the Old Town Clock via public transportation, take a Halifax Transit bus to the downtown area. Routes 1, 3, and 7 frequently serve the downtown area. Disembark at a stop near the intersection of Barrington Street and Brunswick Street, from where it is a short walk to the Clock. As of September 1st, 2024, a single adult fare is $3. Check the Halifax Transit website for the most up-to-date schedules and fare information.
Car
If driving, make your way to downtown Halifax. From Highway 102, merge onto Highway 111 towards Halifax, following signs for the downtown area and taking the exit for Barrington Street. Turn left onto Duke Street, then right onto Brunswick Street. The Old Town Clock will be on your left at the intersection. Street parking is available, but be mindful of parking meters. Parking rates vary, but expect to pay around $2-4 per hour.
Local tips
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Visit during the spring or summer months for pleasant weather and blooming gardens.
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Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Halifax Citadel National Historic Site for a full historical experience.
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Arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon for a quieter visit and better photo opportunities.
Discover more about Old Town Clock
Halifax's Old Town Clock, also known as the Citadel Clock Tower, is an iconic symbol of the city, standing tall since its completion in 1803. Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, who was obsessed with punctuality, commissioned the clock as a gift to Halifax, hoping to keep the city's forces on time.The three-tiered, irregular octagon tower sits atop a Palladian-style building, designed by Prince Edward's engineer. The clock itself was crafted by the House of Vulliamy, a renowned family of royal clockmakers in London. The clock mechanism, powered by weights and a pendulum, is still the original, though the tower has undergone restorations over the years.The Old Town Clock has witnessed many significant events in Halifax's history, including the aftermath of the Titanic tragedy and the Halifax Explosion. Today, Parks Canada maintains the clock, which is wound twice a week to keep Haligonians punctual. Visitors can admire the clock's architecture, capture stunning views of the city and harbor, and explore nearby attractions such as the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site and the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic.
A brief summary to Old Town Clock
Use Old Town Clock as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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