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O'Hara's Battery: Gibraltar's Summit Fortress

Explore Gibraltar's military history at O'Hara's Battery, the Rock's highest point, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the past.

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Perched atop the highest point of the Rock of Gibraltar, O'Hara's Battery is a historic artillery battery offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Gibraltar's military past. Named after Governor Charles O'Hara, it features a meticulously restored 9.2-inch gun and underground chambers.

A brief summary to O'Hara's Battery

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as reaching the battery involves a steep ascent.
  • Bring water, especially during warmer months, as the location is exposed.
  • Visit early morning or late afternoon for a more tranquil experience and optimal lighting for photos.
  • Check the opening hours before you go, as they may vary.
  • Purchase a Nature Reserve ticket online in advance to save time.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the top cable car station, walk south down St Michael's Rd for approximately 1 km (15 minutes). Turn left onto O'Hara's Rd, which leads to the battery. The walk to the battery is within the Upper Rock Nature Reserve, so a valid ticket is required. Note that the pathways leading to the battery involve a steep ascent.

  • Public Transport

    Take a bus to the Cable Car base station using Citibus routes 2, 3, 4, 7, 9 or 10. From the cable car top station, follow the walking directions. A single Citibus Hopper ticket costs approximately £2.20. A return ticket on the cable car costs £19.50 for adults. Remember to factor in the cost of the Nature Reserve ticket, which is required to access O'Hara's Battery.

  • Taxi

    Taxis can take you directly to O'Hara's Battery via O'Hara's Road. A taxi tour of the Upper Rock, including O'Hara's Battery, typically costs around £30-£35. This price does not include the Nature Reserve ticket, which is required for entry.

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Discover more about O'Hara's Battery

O'Hara's Battery, located at the summit of the Rock of Gibraltar, stands as a testament to the territory's strategic military history. Named after General Charles O'Hara, Governor of Gibraltar in the late 18th century, the battery sits at an elevation of 421 meters (1,383 feet) near the southern end of the Upper Rock Nature Reserve. Originally conceived as a watchtower in the early 1800s to monitor the Spanish port of Cadiz, O'Hara's Folly, as it was known, failed in its primary purpose. In 1890, the current battery was constructed, later armed with a 9.2-inch Mark X BL gun in 1901 capable of striking targets 16 miles away. The battery played a defensive role in both World War I and World War II. Although it was last fired in 1976 during a training exercise, the site was refurbished in 2009 and opened to the public in 2010. Visitors can explore the restored gun, underground ammunition magazines, engine room, and a rock-hewn connecting tunnel. The site offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, the Strait of Gibraltar, and the North African coast.

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