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Kampala Clock Tower
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Landmark
The Kampala Clock Tower, located at a prominent roundabout in the heart of Kampala, is a significant historical landmark in Uganda. It was erected in 1954 to commemorate the first visit of Queen Elizabeth II to the country, at a time when Uganda was still a British protectorate. The structure was designed to reflect the prevailing British architectural styles of the era. Its location marks the point where major roads leading to the Parliament Building, the Court of Justice, and the main business districts converge, making it a central navigation point in the city. Over the years, the clock tower has witnessed numerous national events and changes in Kampala's urban landscape. Despite being surrounded by modern buildings, it remains a symbol of the city's colonial past and its evolution into a modern African metropolis. Maintenance efforts have ensured that the clock remains functional, continuing to serve as an important timekeeper for the city's residents. The surrounding garden is often used for public gatherings and relaxation.
- Location: Uganda
- Nearby: Nakawa (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 24 | 24 | 24 | 22 | 22 | 21 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 22 | 23 |
| Rain mm | 65 | 66 | 148 | 194 | 158 | 63 | 57 | 88 | 117 | 158 | 166 | 116 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Kampala Clock Tower is a traffic monument at a roundabout, accessible from outside at any time. You can walk around the structure and read the colonial-era inscriptions.
Typical hours
Being a public monument, it is accessible 24/7. The best time to visit is during daylight hours when traffic is lighter and the area feels safer.
Photography
Photograph the clock tower from the pavement, but watch out for traffic. A low angle from the street side can emphasise the tower's height.
Time needed
Visiting the clock tower typically takes no more than 10 to 15 minutes. You can stop briefly, take photos and then move on.
Combine with
Combine this stop with a walk along Kampala Road to other monuments like Independence Avenue. The Uganda Museum is also not far away.
Getting there
The clock tower is at the roundabout of Kampala Road and Jinja Road, in the heart of the city. It is easily reachable on foot, by taxi or boda-boda from any central point.
Insider tip
Visit the tower around midday when the sun is directly overhead for even lighting. Keep an eye out for the gilded clock faces, which are often overlooked.
Geography
Facts
- Built in 1954 to commemorate the visit of Queen Elizabeth II.
- Located at the junction of Entebbe Road and Queen's Way.
- Marks the entrance to Kampala's central business district.
- The clock was originally imported from the United Kingdom.
- It was a gift from the colonial governor at the time, Sir Andrew Cohen.
- The tower stands at an approximate height of 15 meters.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Kampala Clock Tower (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Kampala clock tower?
It stands at a busy traffic junction in Kampala.
Is it a historical monument?
Yes, it marks an important point in city history.
Can you climb it?
No, it is just a monument.
How long should a stop take?
A short photo stop of 5-10 minutes is sufficient.
Is traffic there a problem?
Yes, it is a very busy intersection.
Kampala Clock Tower: where is it located?
Kampala Clock Tower is located in Uganda.
Kampala Clock Tower: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Kampala Clock Tower: why is it worth visiting?
The Kampala Clock Tower, located at a prominent roundabout in the heart of Kampala, is a significant historical landmark in Uganda.
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