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Prince of Wales Tower: Halifax's Historic Guardian

Explore Halifax's oldest Martello tower in Point Pleasant Park, a historic site with stunning views and rich military history.

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The Prince of Wales Tower, located in Point Pleasant Park, is the oldest Martello tower in North America. Built in 1796, it was part of Halifax's coastal defense network. Visitors can explore the exterior and learn about its history via interpretive panels.

A brief summary to Prince of Wales Tower National Historic Site

Local tips

  • Explore the park's extensive trail system, offering a mix of coastal and woodland scenery.
  • Visit in June to witness the annual ceremonial payment of one shilling in rent for Point Pleasant Park.
  • Check out Shakespeare by the Sea performances at Cambridge Battery during the summer months.
  • Be aware that dogs are not allowed off-leash on Sailors Memorial Way after 10 a.m. and must be leashed in parking lots and on Cambridge Drive.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Tower Road entrance of Point Pleasant Park, follow the walking trail signs. The tower is located within a clearing in the forest at the highest point within Point Pleasant Park. The walk is approximately 2.5 km from downtown Halifax. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    Take Halifax Transit bus number 14 towards 'Point Pleasant Park'. Get off at the 'Point Pleasant Park' stop. From there, walk approximately 10 minutes along Point Pleasant Drive to reach the tower. The bus fare is approximately CAD 2.75.

  • Driving

    Drive to Point Pleasant Park via Point Pleasant Drive. There are two main parking lots: an upper lot at the end of Young Avenue (extension of South Park St.) and a lower lot accessed by following Point Pleasant Dr east toward the harbor. Parking is free. From either lot, follow the walking trail signs to the Prince of Wales Tower. Be aware that the lower lot gates close at 10 p.m.

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Discover more about Prince of Wales Tower National Historic Site

The Prince of Wales Tower National Historic Site, a stout, round stone structure, stands proudly in Point Pleasant Park, guarding the entrance to Halifax Harbour. Constructed between 1796 and 1798, under the direction of Prince Edward, Duke of Kent, it was named after his elder brother, the future King George IV. This tower is the first of its kind in North America, designed by Captain James Straton. Originally, the tower was armed with several guns and could accommodate up to 200 soldiers. Over the years, it underwent modifications, including the addition of granite machicolated galleries in 1862 to enhance its defenses. Although initially a key defensive structure, the tower transitioned to a self-defensible depot magazine after 1864. Today, the tower is owned and administered by Parks Canada. Visitors can explore the grounds, enjoy scenic walks, and learn about the tower's history through interpretive panels. The park itself offers 39 km of trails, ruins of early fortifications, and beautiful coastal views. The inside of the tower is currently closed to the public.

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