Fort Rodd Hill

Set on the traditional territory of the Lekwungen speaking people, Colwood is proud to be home to two remarkable national historic sites administered by Parks Canada: Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse. These sites offer an unforgettable experience, blending rich history with stunning natural beauty, making them a must-visit location in Greater Victoria.

Fort Rodd Hill, a formidable coast artillery fort built by the British in the 1890s, was strategically designed to defend Victoria and the Esquimalt Naval Base. Visitors can step back in time as they explore its three gun-batteries, underground magazines, command posts, guardhouses, barracks, and searchlight emplacements—all fascinating vestiges of a bygone era. 

Beyond its historical significance, the fort is set within a beautiful, expansive waterfront field and Garry Oak meadows, offering spectacular ocean and mountain views. It is perfect for picnicking, bird watching, and investigating the tide pools along the shoreline.

Just a short walk away stands Fisgard Lighthouse, the oldest lighthouse on Canada's west coast, offering additional historical insights and picturesque views. Both sites provide endless opportunities for photography, nature exploration, and wildlife spotting.

The Garry Oak Learning Meadow offers a glimpse into a rare Garry oak ecosystem where an oasis of wildflowers blooms from April to August, creating a vibrant pollinator habitat.

In the warmer months, the oTENTik camping experience provides overnight guests the opportunity to sleep within the fort grounds. 

In the summer, folks can step inside the historic buildings and join costumed interpreters as they deliver engaging programs. In winter, the grounds and main facilities remains open for visitors to enjoy, though most of the exhibits are stored away to protect them from inclement weather. 

You can even enjoy Fort Rodd Hill from the comfort of your own home: access interactive maps and multiple self-guided tours that are free to download from the Parks Canada App.

For all the information on Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites, including details on operating hours, programs, and other visitor information, the official Parks Canada website is: https://parks.canada.ca/lhn-nhs/bc/fortroddhill.

The surrounding lands and ocean are an important part of the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations homelands. Known as the Lekwungen people, they believe the ocean is sacred to all living creatures in the water and on land. Their ancestors have carved this place since time immemorial. It connects their past, present, and future. Today, they continue to preserve and care for the land, the ocean and their history. Read more about First Nations in Colwood.