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Admiralty House: A Naval Landmark

Explore Halifax's naval past at Admiralty House, a historic mansion and home to the Naval Museum of Halifax, offering insights into Canada's maritime legacy.

Admiralty House, a National Historic Site in Halifax, Nova Scotia, is a beautifully preserved example of British Classicism. Built between 1814 and 1819, it served as the residence for the Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Navy's North American Station for nearly a century. Today, it houses the Naval Museum of Halifax, offering a glimpse into Canada's naval history.

A brief summary to Admiralty House

  • 2725 Gottingen St, Halifax, North End, Nova Scotia, B3K 3C7, CA

Local tips

  • Plan your visit during the week when the museum is less crowded for a more personal experience.
  • Check for any special events or guided tours that may enhance your understanding of the exhibits.
  • Take advantage of the beautiful Admiralty Garden for a scenic moment after your museum visit.
  • Remember to bring government-approved identification, such as a driver's license or passport, for access to CFB Halifax.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Admiralty House is located on CFB Halifax, a short walk from the North End of Halifax. From Gottingen Street, enter the main gate of CFB Halifax (Stadacona). You will need to show government-approved identification, such as a driver's license or passport. Once inside, Admiralty House is a short walk away. Follow the signs for the Naval Museum of Halifax.

  • Public Transport

    From downtown Halifax, take Halifax Transit bus routes 1, 7, or 9 towards the North End. Get off at the stop on Gottingen Street near North Street. Walk south on Gottingen Street for about 5 minutes until you reach 2725 Gottingen St, where Admiralty House is located on your left. A single fare for Halifax Transit is $2.75, payable via the HFXGO app or with exact change.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From downtown Halifax, a taxi or ride-share to Admiralty House will cost approximately $15-$25 and take about 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Specify '2725 Gottingen Street, CFB Halifax' as your destination. Note that access to the base requires showing government-issued photo identification.

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Discover more about Admiralty House

Admiralty House, located within Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Halifax, stands as a testament to Halifax's rich naval heritage. Completed in 1819, this imposing two-story stone mansion was designed in the British Classical style to house the Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Navy's North American Station. For almost a century, it served as the official summer residence for the admiral, hosting numerous social and cultural events, and playing a key role in military planning. The house is built of ironstone quarried from Purcell's Cove. Its architecture features a symmetrical facade, regularly placed windows, and end chimneys flanking a hipped roof. Over the years, Admiralty House has undergone several transformations, serving as a naval hospital during World War I and later housing the Massachusetts-Halifax Relief Commission. The Halifax Explosion in 1917 caused significant damage, but the building was repaired and continued to serve various functions. In the early 1970s, Admiralty House was transformed into the Maritime Command Museum, now known as the Naval Museum of Halifax. The museum showcases an extensive collection of artifacts, including weapons, uniforms, models, and documents, that illustrate the history of Canada's naval forces. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the Royal Canadian Navy's evolution from its inception in 1910 to its modern configuration. The grounds also feature Admiralty Garden, created around 1814, with plaques and monuments honoring naval personnel.

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