The Prince of Wales Tower National Historic Site, located in Point Pleasant Park (Tower Road entrance) in Halifax was built in 1796-97 by order of Prince Edward, Duke of Kent which later came to be called the Martello Tower. The first tower of its type in North America, this thick-walled round structure was intended to protect British sea batteries from a French landward attack. The tower served as part of Halifax’s coastal defence network – a system of forts and batteries that helped protect and defend Halifax Harbour. In 1866, the military offered Point Pleasant Park to the City of Halifax on a 999-year lease for an annual rent of one shilling.
Today, interpretive panels portray the tower’s history, architectural features and significance as a defensive structure. Visitors are welcome to explore the exterior of the tower and learn about its long history. The park offers 39 km of easy, criss-crossing trails with some leading to preserved ruins of early fortifications.
No fee and no visitor services
The inside of the tower is not open for visitation.
Looking for a bite to eat or something else to do during your visit? Check out these popular nearby activities and attractions!
From March 20, 2025 to November 6, 2025
From May 1, 2025 to October 1, 2025
Open year-round
Open year-round
Open year-round
From May 2, 2025 to November 2, 2025
Open year-round
From June 15, 2025 to September 15, 2025
Tag your travel photos to be featured.
