Fort Anne National Historic Site: A Bastion of History
Discover Canada's oldest National Historic Site in Annapolis Royal, NS: a captivating journey through centuries of Scottish, French, and English conflict.
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 Scottish, French, English, and Mi'kmaq peoples. Walk the star-shaped earthen walls, delve into the museum within the 1797 Officer's Quarters, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Canadian history.
A brief summary to Fort Anne National Historic Site
- 323 St George St, Annapolis Royal, Nova Scotia, B0S 1A0, CA
- +1902-532-2321
- Visit website
Local tips
- Explore the grounds year-round, but visit between mid-May and mid-October to access the museum and washrooms.
- Take a guided tour to gain in-depth insights into the fort's history and significance.
- Walk the earthen walls for panoramic views of the Annapolis Basin.
- Visit the Garrison Cemetery, one of Canada's oldest English graveyards, and reflect on the stories of those buried there.
Getting There
-
Walking
From downtown Annapolis Royal, Fort Anne is easily accessible on foot. Head north on St. George Street. The entrance to the National Historic Site will be on your left, a short walk from the main intersection. The walk is generally flat and takes about 5-10 minutes.
-
Public Transport
While there is no direct public transportation to Fort Anne, Kings Transit buses serve Annapolis Royal. From the bus stop, the fort is a short walk north on St. George Street. A single fare on Kings Transit is approximately $3.50.
-
Taxi
Taxis are available in Annapolis Royal. A short taxi ride from anywhere in the town center to Fort Anne will cost approximately $10-$15. Consider Annapolis Royal & Bridgetown Taxi or Annapolis Valley Travel.
-
Driving
From Highway 101, take Exit 22 and follow Route 8 into Annapolis Royal. Alternatively, take Exit 20 and follow Highway 1 until you reach Annapolis Royal. Once in town, follow St. George Street to Fort Anne. Parking is available near the site. The town has over 150 free parking spaces. Parking is free.
Discover more about Fort Anne National Historic Site
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Scenic Acadian Family Historical Site
0.5 km
Discover the story of Acadian pioneers Daniel LeBlanc and Françoise Gaudet at this historical monument in the heart of Nova Scotia's Annapolis Valley.
Melanson Settlement National Historic Site
6.6 km
Discover the story of Acadian settlers at Melanson Settlement National Historic Site, where dykeland farming shaped a community's life along the Annapolis River.
Digby Pier Lighthouse
23.0 km
Discover the historical charm of Digby Pier Lighthouse, a stunning landmark offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into Nova Scotia's maritime past.
Cape Spencer Lighthouse
59.1 km
Explore the rugged beauty of the Bay of Fundy at this historic lighthouse with breathtaking coastal views and hiking trails.
Église catholique Sainte-Marie
65.6 km
Discover the architectural marvel of Église Sainte-Marie in Church Point, a symbol of Acadian heritage and North America's largest wooden church.
Bay of Fundy Scenic Lobster Tours
67.2 km
Explore the Bay of Fundy's stunning landscapes and rich lobster fishing heritage on scenic tours that delight the senses.
Partridge Island
69.4 km
Explore Partridge Island, a historic quarantine station and military outpost in Saint John, offering a glimpse into Canada's immigration and maritime past.
Port of St John
69.8 km
Explore the historic gateway to the Bay of Fundy, where maritime heritage meets modern commerce in vibrant Saint John.
Carleton Martello Tower National Historic Site
71.7 km
Explore a 19th-century Martello tower with panoramic views of Saint John and the Bay of Fundy. A National Historic Site!
Kings Square
72.8 km
Discover the tranquility and historical charm of Kings Square, a stunning park in the heart of Saint John, perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration.
Loyalist House
73.0 km
Discover the rich history of the Loyalist era at Loyalist House, a stunning museum in Saint John, New Brunswick, showcasing period artifacts and stories.
Reversing Falls
73.1 km
Experience the Reversing Falls in Saint John, where the mighty Bay of Fundy tides clash with the Saint John River in a stunning display of nature's power.
Dominion Park Beach
75.6 km
Discover Dominion Park Beach in Saint John: soft sands, tranquil waters, and stunning sunsets await on the city's west side.
Fundy Trail Provincial Park
77.1 km
Discover the rugged beauty of New Brunswick's Fundy Trail Provincial Park: scenic drives, hiking trails, and coastal views await!
Brier Island Lighthouse
88.3 km
Explore the Brier Island Lighthouse, a historical gem on Nova Scotia's rugged coast, offering stunning views and rich maritime heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Annapolis Royal Lighthouse
0.3 km
Experience the rich maritime history and breathtaking views at Annapolis Royal Lighthouse, a historical gem in Nova Scotia's scenic landscape.
Sinclair Inn Museum
0.3 km
Discover the rich history of Nova Scotia at the Sinclair Inn Museum, one of Canada's oldest buildings showcasing fascinating exhibits and local heritage.
Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens
0.4 km
Experience the captivating beauty and rich horticultural heritage at Annapolis Royal Historic Gardens, a top tourist attraction in Nova Scotia.
Harvest Moon Trail
0.4 km
Discover the natural beauty of Nova Scotia on the Harvest Moon Trail, an unforgettable hiking experience in the Annapolis Valley.
O'Dell House Museum
0.6 km
Explore the captivating maritime and local history at O'Dell House Museum in Annapolis Royal, a hidden gem for culture and heritage enthusiasts.
Annapolis Heritage Society
0.6 km
Explore the rich cultural heritage of Annapolis Royal at the Annapolis Heritage Society, a must-visit museum showcasing the town's fascinating history.
North Hills Museum
1.5 km
Explore Nova Scotia's captivating history at North Hills Museum, a hidden gem in Granville Ferry, showcasing local heritage and culture.
Port-Royal National Historic Site
8.0 km
Explore the rich history of Canada at Port-Royal National Historic Site, a captivating reconstruction of a 17th-century French settlement in Nova Scotia.
Port Royal L’habitation
8.0 km
Explore Port Royal L’Habitation, the first French settlement in North America, and immerse yourself in 17th-century history in Nova Scotia.
Victoria Beach Lighthouse
20.0 km
Discover the charm of Victoria Beach Lighthouse, a historic landmark offering stunning coastal views in beautiful Nova Scotia.
James House Museum
21.1 km
Explore the captivating history of Bridgetown at the James House Museum, where local stories and artifacts come to life in a charming setting.
Hampton Lighthouse & Historical Society
22.6 km
Explore the rich maritime history at the Hampton Lighthouse & Historical Society in Bridgetown, Nova Scotia, where heritage meets breathtaking coastal views.
Admiral Digby Museum
23.1 km
Explore the rich maritime history of Digby, Nova Scotia, at the Admiral Digby Museum, a delightful destination for history lovers and curious travelers.
Bay of Fundy
25.3 km
Explore the Bay of Fundy, home to the highest tides in the world, stunning landscapes, and vibrant marine life in an unforgettable Canadian coastal experience.
Replica of Maud Lewis House
28.6 km
Experience the vibrant legacy of Maud Lewis at her replica house in Nova Scotia, celebrating art, history, and the charm of Canadian folk culture.
Essential places to dine
Fort Anne Cafe
0.2 km
Discover Fort Anne Cafe in Annapolis Royal for delicious breakfasts made with fresh local ingredients in a cozy atmosphere.
The Garrison House Inn
0.2 km
Discover history and comfort at The Garrison House Inn in Annapolis Royal - your perfect retreat for exploring Nova Scotia's charm.
Bistro East
0.2 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at Bistro East in Annapolis Royal - where local flavors meet cozy ambiance.
Charlie's Place Restaurant Ltd
0.2 km
Discover authentic Chinese cuisine at Charlie's Place Restaurant in Annapolis Royal—where every dish is a delightful journey into flavor.
Restaurant Composé
0.3 km
Discover exquisite flavors at Restaurant Composé in Annapolis Royal - where local ingredients meet culinary artistry.
Brown Dog Kitchen
0.8 km
Experience the best of Canadian and Pan-Asian cuisine at Brown Dog Kitchen in Annapolis Royal – where every bite tells a story.
Founders House Dining & Drinks
1.6 km
Experience exquisite local cuisine at Founders House Dining & Drinks in Annapolis Royal - where every meal tells a story.
Crow's Nest Hillsburn - Shore Road Seafood
7.2 km
Experience authentic Nova Scotia seafood at Crow's Nest Hillsburn – where fresh flavors meet coastal charm.
Frank & Dora's
13.8 km
Discover Frank & Dora's in Cornwallis Park - where delicious food meets a vibrant atmosphere in Nova Scotia.
Junction Sixteen
20.7 km
Discover Junction Sixteen: A delightful restaurant in Bridgetown offering fresh local cuisine and a warm atmosphere perfect for tourists.
Churchill's Restaurant & Lounge
22.4 km
Experience exquisite dining at Churchill's Restaurant & Lounge in Digby - where local flavors meet stunning coastal views.
The Crow's Nest - Digby
22.9 km
Experience authentic Nova Scotia seafood at The Crow's Nest - where every dish tells a story of the ocean.
Fundy Restaurant & Dockside Suites
22.9 km
Experience the best of Nova Scotia's seafood at Fundy Restaurant & Dockside Suites with stunning views over the Bay of Fundy.
Antonio's Seafood & Grill
32.0 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at Antonio's Seafood & Grill in Digby, Nova Scotia - a family-friendly dining destination rich in local flavors.
Edelweiss Restaurant
37.4 km
Discover the flavors of Nova Scotia at Edelweiss Restaurant - where local ingredients meet culinary excellence in a cozy setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Annapolis Variety
0.2 km
Explore unique local treasures at Annapolis Variety in Annapolis Royal, NS, where every item tells a story of Nova Scotia's rich heritage.
The Blue Owl Gifts & Home Décor
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts and home décor at The Blue Owl Gifts & Home Décor in Annapolis Royal, a charming shop celebrating local artistry and creativity.
The Green Barn Antiques
0.4 km
Explore The Green Barn Antiques in Annapolis Royal for unique vintage treasures that tell a story and capture the charm of local heritage.
Far-Fetched Antique & Art Gallery
0.4 km
Explore the vibrant world of antiques and art at Far-Fetched Antique & Art Gallery in Annapolis Royal, where each piece is a story waiting to be discovered.
Gardens Shop - Historic Gardens
0.4 km
Explore the Historic Gardens Shop for unique gifts and local artisan treasures in the heart of Annapolis Royal, Nova Scotia.
Loose Ends Trading Co
0.4 km
Explore Loose Ends Trading Co: A Charming Gift Shop in Annapolis Royal with Unique Local Crafts and Treasures.
JoAnn's Chocolate Shop
0.5 km
Discover the exquisite handcrafted chocolates at JoAnn's Chocolate Shop in Annapolis Royal, where every bite is a delightful experience.
Lequille Country Store
2.6 km
Discover local delights at Lequille Country Store, your convenient stop for essentials and sporting goods in Annapolis Royal, Nova Scotia.
Clementsport Antiques
10.7 km
Explore Clementsport Antiques in Annapolis Royal for a unique blend of vintage treasures and captivating art, celebrating Nova Scotia's rich history.
Treasures & Collectibles
18.1 km
Explore a treasure trove of antiques, vintage finds, and unique collectibles at Treasures & Collectibles in Upper Granville, a must-visit for tourists.
Bear River Mercantile
20.6 km
Explore Bear River Mercantile for unique gifts and local crafts, capturing the spirit of Nova Scotia in every purchase.
Atlantic Treasures
22.9 km
Explore Atlantic Treasures in Digby, Nova Scotia, for unique local crafts and gifts that embody the spirit of the Atlantic coast.
The Artist's Mark
37.7 km
Explore The Artist's Mark in Digby, Nova Scotia, for unique handcrafted gifts and local art that capture the spirit of the region.
Cinnamon Creek Country Gift
42.0 km
Explore the charm of Nova Scotia at Cinnamon Creek Country Gift, your go-to destination for unique souvenirs and local crafts in Middleton.
Atlantic Superstore Main Street
52.2 km
Explore the flavors of Nova Scotia at Atlantic Superstore Main Street, your go-to grocery destination for fresh produce, baked goods, and more.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Annapolis Brewing Company
0.1 km
Discover the best of craft brewing at Annapolis Brewing Company, where local flavors and a cozy atmosphere await in Annapolis Royal, Nova Scotia.
Mad Hatter Wine Bar
0.4 km
Discover the Mad Hatter Wine Bar, a charming riverside retreat in Annapolis Royal, offering exquisite wines and local cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
Tom's Cool Bus Canteen
1.5 km
Discover the unique flavors and charming ambiance of Tom's Cool Bus Canteen in Granville Ferry, Nova Scotia, where every meal is a delightful adventure.
The Whiskey Teller
1.6 km
Discover the charm of The Whiskey Teller in Annapolis Royal, a premier pub offering an exquisite selection of whiskeys and delicious pub fare.
Royal Canadian Legion Br 122
10.0 km
Discover the Royal Canadian Legion Br 122, a community bar in Clementsport, Nova Scotia, where affordable drinks and local culture meet.
Sydney Street Pub and Cafe
23.0 km
Experience the charm of Digby at Sydney Street Pub and Cafe, where delicious cuisine meets a welcoming atmosphere in a unique setting.
Lunn's Mill Beer Company
31.4 km
Discover the charm of Lunn's Mill Beer Company, where craft brews meet local flavor in the heart of Lawrencetown, Nova Scotia.
Capitol Pub
42.0 km
Experience local flavors and a vibrant atmosphere at Capitol Pub in Middleton, Nova Scotia—a perfect spot for relaxation and socializing.
Oaken Barrel Pub
53.2 km
Discover the flavors of Nova Scotia at Oaken Barrel Pub, where craft beers and hearty meals blend in a cozy, rustic setting.
Old Molly's Bar
68.0 km
Experience the perfect blend of local charm and breathtaking views at Old Molly's Bar in St. Martins, New Brunswick.
O'Leary's
72.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious fare at O'Leary's, Saint John's favorite pub for locals and visitors alike.
Happinez Wine Bar
72.7 km
Discover the elegance of Happinez Wine Bar in Saint John, where fine wines and gourmet cuisine meet in a cozy atmosphere.
Hopscotch Whisky Bar
72.8 km
Experience the finest selection of whiskies at Hopscotch Whisky Bar in Saint John, a cozy retreat for enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.
Kakuteru
72.8 km
Experience the vibrant cocktail culture at Kakuteru, a premier cocktail bar in Saint John, where unique drinks and a cozy atmosphere await.
Five and Dime
72.8 km
Discover the lively ambiance of Five and Dime in Saint John, a must-visit pub for craft beer lovers and nightlife enthusiasts.
