Fort Henry National Historic Site
Fort Henry
A 19th-century British stone fortress where guards in red coats drill, cannons fire, and sunset ceremonies bring the life of the garrison back to life.
Fort Henry was built between 1832 and 1837 to protect the entrance to the Rideau Canal and the Kingston naval dockyard. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Rideau Canal. Inside the fort, students dressed in British military uniforms from the 19th century play the role of guards. Every day there are rifle drills, cannon firings, and military band performances. Visitors can tour the barracks, officers' quarters, and the powder magazine. On Wednesday evenings in summer, the Sunset Ceremonies feature a drum and bugle corps and fireworks, and tickets should be booked in advance. The fort sits on a hill east of the city, offering views over downtown and Lake Ontario. Visitors can drive there or take a city bus. A combined pass costs about 25 Canadian dollars.
Opening hours
About late May–early September, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Nearby sights
- Fort Frederick & Royal Military College
- Kingston City Hall & Market Square
- St. George's Cathedral
- Murney Tower
- Queen's University
- Agnes Etherington Art Centre
- Bellevue House National Historic Site
- Kingston Penitentiary