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Old Town Clock
Free admission
Brunswick Street, Halifax, Nova Scotia, NS B3J 3Y3
The basics
The Old Town Clock attracts countless visitors to admire its historical charm and take photos in front of it. Located on the slope of the Halifax Citadel, it’s the perfect first stop on a tour of historic Halifax, which typically explore the city’s Georgian architecture and take you through the Victorian-era Halifax Public Gardens. Meanwhile, at the Halifax Citadel, you’ll get stunning views over the city and an opportunity to learn about the region’s military history.
Amazing walking and learning experience.
Duncan has a great knowledge of the history of Halifax. Honestly I have learned a lot! The walking and listening to the history behind each building was amazing. Duncan shared some really good anecdotes and interesting facts about the city. The walking was easy and no rain. I really enjoy history! I highly recommend this walking tour. People of Nova Scotia are very friendly, everyone should visit Nova Scotia!
Veronica_D, May 2024
Things to know before you go
Visit on the hour so you can hear it chime, up close and personal.
Bring your camera—it’s an excellent backdrop for photos.
Make time for a visit to Citadel Hill, which offers insight into local history.
How to get there
The Old Town Clock is on the eastern face of Citadel Hill, on Brunswick Street. It’s an easy walk for those staying in the downtown area, and a 5-minute walk away from the Scotia Square bus station which is a hub for most major bus lines. Parking is available in the Citadel Hill parking lot, but it can fill up quickly.
When to get there
Views out over the city are especially lovely at sunset, so take an afternoon tour of the Citadel before heading down to the clock for golden hour. As the Citadel is open year-round, visit any day you’re free. Try to arrive after 3pm, as the site is a popular spot for field trips.
The prince of punctuality
The clock tower was a gift from Prince Edward, Duke of Kent as a farewell gift upon his return to England. As the commander-in-chief of the military in British North America, he was displeased with the tardiness of the local soldiers, and hoped that the clock would remedy the issue. He intended it as a gift for the whole of Halifax, so that all citizens would be able to keep time by it.
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attraction_detail_overview
- Halifax Citadel National Historic Site
- St. Paul's Anglican Church
- Halifax City Hall
- Province House
- Maritime Museum of the Atlantic
- Spring Garden Road
- Halifax Public Gardens
- Government House
- Alexander Keith's Brewery
- Halifax Cruise Port
- Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21
- Halifax Harbour
- Halifax Seaport Farmers' Market
- Point Pleasant Park
- Fairview Lawn Cemetery