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Carleton Martello Tower: Sentinel of Saint John

Explore a 19th-century Martello tower with panoramic views of Saint John and the Bay of Fundy. A National Historic Site!

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Overlooking Saint John, New Brunswick, the Carleton Martello Tower is a National Historic Site that showcases Canada's military heritage. Built in the early 19th century to defend against American attacks, it later served in both World Wars and now offers stunning views and engaging exhibits.

A brief summary to Carleton Martello Tower National Historic Site

Local tips

  • Check the Parks Canada website for seasonal hours, special events, and possible closures due to ongoing restoration work.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the grounds, as the area leading to the tower is hilly.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of Saint John and the Bay of Fundy.
  • Visit on a clear day to maximize the views from the top of the hill.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From uptown Saint John, take Saint John Transit's Harbour Bridge route (#15A or #15B). The bus stops within a short walking distance of the site. A single fare is approximately $2 - $4. Check the Saint John Transit website for the most up-to-date schedules and fare information.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Saint John. A taxi from the Port of Saint John to Carleton Martello Tower is approximately $20 - $25 and takes about 13 minutes. From Market Square to Carleton Martello Tower by taxi will cost $12-$15.

  • Car

    From Highway 1, eastbound traffic should take Exit 120 (Digby Ferry) before the Saint John Harbour Bridge and follow the Parks Canada Beaver signs and Digby Ferry signs to Market Place. At the end of Market Place, turn right at St. John/Dufferin Row to Whipple. Watch closely for the Beaver signs. From Highway 1, westbound traffic takes Exit 120 (Digby Ferry) after the Saint John Harbour Bridge. Continue straight on Market Place. At the end of Market Place, turn right at St. John/Dufferin Row to Whipple. Watch closely for the Beaver signs. There is free parking available on-site.

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Discover more about Carleton Martello Tower National Historic Site

The Carleton Martello Tower National Historic Site, perched high on Carleton Heights in Saint John, New Brunswick, offers a captivating glimpse into Canada's military past. Constructed by the British between 1813 and 1815, during and immediately after the War of 1812, the tower was intended to protect the city from potential American invasions from the west. Although completed after the war, it later played roles in the Fenian scare of the 1860s, World War I as a detention center, and World War II as an observation and command post. The tower itself is a classic example of Martello tower design, characterized by its round, squat shape, thick stone walls, and strategic positioning. From its elevated location 68.5 meters above sea level, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Saint John, the harbor, and the Bay of Fundy. Inside, exhibits detail the tower's history, military life in the 19th century, and the architecture of Martello towers. A visitor center offers an engaging video, "Carleton Martello Tower: the Sentinel of Saint John," which tells the tower's dramatic story. Visitors can explore the restored barracks room and powder magazine to get a feel for the life of soldiers stationed there. While the tower is currently undergoing restoration work, visitors are still welcome to explore the grounds and visitor center.

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