The Dockyard Clock, Halifax Travel Guide

4.7 (9)

A historic 18th-century clock on Halifax's waterfront, marking the city's naval heritage and standing as Canada's oldest working clock.

Home
Travel Guides
Canada
Halifax
The Dockyard Clock

The Dockyard Clock, dating back to 1767, stands as a tribute to Halifax's naval history. Originally part of the Halifax Naval Dockyard, it's now located on the waterfront, a testament to the city's maritime heritage.

A brief summary to The Dockyard Clock

5072 George St, Halifax, Downtown Halifax, Nova Scotia, B3J 1M4, CA

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring The Dockyard Clock.

Take a stroll along the Halifax Harbourwalk to enjoy the waterfront views and easily access the Dockyard Clock.
Visit the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic nearby to delve deeper into Halifax's maritime history and see the original Naval Yard bell.
Check out the Halifax Brewery Farmers' Market on Saturdays for local goods and a vibrant atmosphere.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Old Town Clock

Halifax Citadel National Historic Site

Samuel Cunard Statue

The Emigrant Statue

Georges Island National Historic Site

Explore The Dockyard Clock on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near The Dockyard Clock, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the Halifax Waterfront boardwalk, the Dockyard Clock is easily accessible on foot. Head towards the Halifax Ferry Terminal at Chebucto Landing; the clock is located at the foot of George Street. No costs are involved.
Public Transport

Halifax Transit provides bus and ferry services to the waterfront area. From various points in Halifax, take a bus route that stops near the waterfront or the ferry to the Halifax Ferry Terminal. The Dockyard Clock is a short walk from the terminal. A single adult fare is $3.
Driving

If driving, several parking lots are available near the waterfront. Options include the Salter Lot, Foundation Place, and the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic lot. Parking rates typically range from $3 per hour. On-street parking is also available, free after 6 pm on weekends and holidays; rates vary by zone and time of day.

Discover more about The Dockyard Clock

The Dockyard Clock, located on Halifax's waterfront, is more than just a timepiece; it's a tangible link to the city's rich naval past. Crafted in London in 1767 by Ayneth Thwaites, the clock originally found its home in the domed cupola of the Hauser Stores in 1772. These stores served as naval warehouses, stocking provisions and clothing.Over the years, the clock has been relocated a few times. When the Hauser Stores were demolished in 1941, it was moved to the HMC Dockyard Fire Hall in 1943. After the Fire Hall was torn down in 1986, the clock was presented to the Halifax Regional Municipality in 1996. Today, it stands on a monument at Chebucto Landing, close to the Halifax Ferry Terminal, serving as a reminder of the close ties between Canada's Navy and the city.The clock itself is a masterpiece of 18th-century craftsmanship, featuring hand-tooled inner workings, forged shafts, and filled gears. A 250-pound weight drives its nine-foot pendulum. The monument that houses the clock incorporates elements of its history, with an "X" motif recalling the railing pattern of the original Hauser Stores. The Dockyard Clock stands as the oldest working clock in Canada.