Landmark
Shoal Tower
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Shoal Tower is a striking Martello tower perched on a small island in Kingston Harbour, built in 1846 as part of the city's fortifications. One of four such towers in Kingston, it was designed to defend the harbour and the entrance to the Rideau Canal. Today, it stands as a National Historic Site, offering visitors a glimpse into 19th-century military architecture. While the interior is not open to the public, the tower is a picturesque landmark visible from the waterfront, ideal for photography and history enthusiasts.
Don't miss
- Photograph the iconic round stone tower rising from the water
- Learn about Kingston's 19th-century defence system from interpretive panels on the waterfront
- Combine a visit with a walk along the Kingston Waterfront Trail for scenic views
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Shoal Tower
You can see Shoal Tower on your own. A tour is worth it for the story behind it, for transport, or for combining nearby sights into one day.
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