Prince of Wales Fort National Historic Site
Prince of Wales Fort, Churchill, MB R0B 0E0, Canada
A Historic Stone Fortress on Hudson Bay
Standing proudly on the windswept shores near the mouth of the Churchill River, the Prince of Wales Fort is one of Canada’s most remarkable historic sites. Built by the Hudson’s Bay Company in the early 1700s, this massive stone fortress once served as a stronghold for the fur trade and a symbol of British presence in the Arctic.
The fort features thick stone walls, sturdy bastions, and original cannons that overlook Hudson Bay — all built to protect the valuable trade routes and goods of the region. Despite its defensive design, the fort never saw a major battle, though it was briefly captured by French forces in 1782.
Today, visitors can explore the restored ruins and imagine life at this remote outpost centuries ago. Guided tours, offered during summer months, provide fascinating stories about the fur traders, explorers, and Indigenous peoples who shaped the region’s history.
Located across the river from Churchill town, the site is accessible by seasonal boat tours that often include sightings of beluga whales swimming in the bay — adding a touch of natural wonder to this historic experience.
