Deal Timeball Tower

Visit the iconic Grade II listed building on Deal seafront, a reminder of the importance of the town to the Navy in Georgian times.

Attraction Deal

Where

Victoria Parade
Deal
CT14 7BP

What3words location

basin.prep.discouraged

Useful info

  • Family-friendly
  • Off-site parking (charges may apply)
  • Public transport nearby
  • Dog-friendly
  • Parking

Admission

Admission fees

Contact

Deal Timeball Tower is home to a museum which features exhibits about the history of the tower, its use for navigation, signalling and precision electrical timekeeping, and the timeball mechanics.

First established in 1855, the Timeball fell daily at 1pm precisely, triggered by an electric signal so that ships could check their chronometers. It was administered by the Royal Observatory from 1864 until 1927 when it became obsolete and its operation stopped.

Now restored, the Timeball has a new mast and is programmed to drop every day at 1pm. From April to September the ball drops hourly from 9am to 5pm.

Summer opening times (until 27 September 2026)

Wednesdays to Sundays 11.30am to 4.30pm. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

  • Please note that the museum is on four floors with no ramp or lift access.
  • Coach parties and groups are welcome but should contact the museum in advance.
Outside view of Deal Timeball Tower, with flowerbeds and a large anchor outside
Deal Timeball Tower
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