NHSC - Welcome Castle Hill National Historic Site of Canada Overlooking Placentia Bay, Castle Hill National Historic Site protects the remains of fortifications built by the French and English in the 17th and 18th centuries. With a superb harbour and an ideal beach for drying cod, Placentia, or ''Plaisance'' as the French called it, played a significant role in the struggle between the French and English for Newfoundland and its fishing resources. Castle Hill's Visitor Centre and interpretation program offer visitors the opportunity to experience life at ''Plaisance'' and the many hardships endured by the garrison, fishermen and residents who lived there. The Visitor Centre houses exhibits on the lifestyle and history of Plaisance. The centre is wheelchair accessible and also provides washrooms and a gift shop.
Picnic facilities are also available.
During July and August, the theatrical production Faces of Fort Royale is held on the site grounds. Bilingual service is available from May 15 to October 15. Reservations are recommended for larger groups. Castle Hill is only a 90 minute drive from St. John's and is an ideal day excursion. Visitors are required to purchase an entrance fee to view the Visitor Centre exhibits.