Kingston Royal Naval Dockyard

Kingston Royal Naval Dockyard is a shipyard and national historic site spanning 37 hectares where the Cataraqui and St. Lawrence Rivers meet. The complex preserves limestone buildings and military structures from the colonial period.

The site was established in 1788 as the primary British naval base on Lake Ontario and served until 1853 as a counterbalance to the American base at Sackets Harbor. It played a key role in naval operations during the War of 1812.

The site displays British military architecture through buildings like the Stone Frigate from 1819 and the Commandant's House. Visitors can see how these structures shaped the daily operations of a naval base.

Fort Frederick houses a museum with a collection of naval artifacts and information about military operations that provide visitors with an overview of the site. The grounds are easy to explore on foot with paths connecting the historic buildings.

The shipyard constructed HMS St. Lawrence, the only first-rate Royal Navy battleship ever to sail on Lake Ontario. This vessel was a remarkable display of British naval power on the lake during the War of 1812.

Location: Kingston

Inception: 1788

GPS coordinates: 44.22890,-76.46860

Latest update: December 24, 2025 14:19