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Nelson's Dockyard National Park: A Georgian Era Gem

Discover Antigua's naval history at Nelson's Dockyard National Park, a UNESCO site with Georgian architecture, scenic trails, and a vibrant marina.

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Explore Nelson's Dockyard National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Antigua, offering a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. This historic dockyard, the world's only continuously working Georgian-era dockyard, showcases meticulously restored buildings, a vibrant marina, and a fascinating glimpse into the island's naval past.

A brief summary to Nelson's Dockyard National Park

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the dockyard and hiking the trails.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the harbor and historical buildings.
  • Consider joining a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the dockyard's rich history.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to Shirley Heights for panoramic views, especially at sunset.
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Getting There

  • Car

    If driving from St. John's, head southeast on All Saints Road. Follow the signs to English Harbour and Nelson's Dockyard National Park. Parking is available near the entrance, but a parking fee may apply. Note that vehicular traffic within the Dockyard is restricted.

  • Public Transport

    From St. John's, take the #17 bus from Belmont station towards Cobbs Cross. The bus departs approximately every 15 minutes and the journey takes about 42 minutes. From Cobbs Cross, it's a short walk to the park entrance. The bus fare is approximately $2 ECD.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available from St. John's and other locations in Antigua. A taxi ride from St. John's to Nelson's Dockyard will take approximately 22 minutes and cost between $24 and $29 USD. Agree on a fare with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Walking

    If you are already in English Harbour, the entrance to Nelson's Dockyard is a short walk from the Antigua Yacht Club, approximately 10 minutes. Follow the signs for Nelson's Dockyard.

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Discover more about Nelson's Dockyard National Park

Nelson's Dockyard National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2016, is a captivating destination where history and natural beauty converge. Located in English Harbour, Antigua, this park offers a unique insight into the island's rich maritime past. Originally established in 1725 as "His Majesty's Yard in English Harbour," the dockyard served as a crucial base for the British Royal Navy in the Caribbean. It was later named in honor of Admiral Horatio Nelson, who was stationed here between 1784 and 1787. Ironically, Nelson himself was not fond of the post, reportedly calling English Harbour an "infernal hole". Today, Nelson's Dockyard stands as the world's only continuously working Georgian-era dockyard. Its meticulously restored 18th- and 19th-century buildings house a variety of attractions, including hotels, restaurants, shops, and the Dockyard Museum. Visitors can explore the museum to delve into the dockyard's history and view exhibits on current archaeological research. The park encompasses a large area of nearly 16 square miles, offering scenic nature trails, historic fortifications, and stunning views. Fort Berkeley, the oldest defensive structure in English Harbour, is accessible via the Middle Ground Trail. Clarence House and Dow's Hill Interpretation Center provide additional historical and cultural insights. Nelson's Dockyard remains an active marina, hosting luxury yachts and providing a safe haven for vessels. The park also plays a vital role in biodiversity and conservation, protecting the unique flora and fauna of the English and Falmouth Harbour areas.

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