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Nelson's Dockyard: A Georgian Era Naval Gem

Explore Antigua's Nelson's Dockyard: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, maritime history, Georgian architecture, and Caribbean charm await!

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Explore Nelson's Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world's only continuously working Georgian-era dockyard. Nestled in English Harbour, Antigua, this historic site offers a captivating blend of cultural heritage and maritime charm, with restored buildings, a museum, and a bustling marina.

A brief summary to Nelson's Dockyard

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the dockyard's cobblestone streets and exploring the surrounding area.
  • Visit the Dockyard Museum to learn about the history of the dockyard and see naval artifacts.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to Shirley Heights for panoramic views of English Harbour, included in the entrance fee.
  • Consider visiting during the off-season (May-November) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From St. John's, take the Line 17 bus towards English Harbour. The bus departs from the West Bus Station and terminates near the entrance of Nelson's Dockyard. The bus ride takes approximately 1 hour and costs $2 USD. The bus operates frequently, with departures every 15 minutes.

  • Taxi

    From the cruise ship dock in St. John's, a taxi to Nelson's Dockyard takes about 22 minutes and costs approximately $24-$30 USD. Taxis are readily available at the dock. Ensure the taxi is licensed and agree on the fare before starting your journey.

  • Driving

    From Antigua Airport (ANU), follow All Saints Road towards English Harbour. The drive to Nelson's Dockyard is approximately 21.4 km and takes around 26 minutes. There is a free car park directly outside the entrance to the dockyard. Parking within the National Park requires a valid parking permit.

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Discover more about Nelson's Dockyard

Nelson's Dockyard, located in English Harbour, Antigua, is a beautifully preserved example of an 18th-century British naval dockyard. As the world's only continuously working Georgian-era dockyard, it offers a unique glimpse into the Caribbean's rich maritime history. Originally established in 1725 as “His Majesty's Yard in English Harbour,” the dockyard served as a strategic base for the British Royal Navy. It provided a safe harbor and a vital repair and supply hub for ships patrolling the West Indies. The dockyard is named after Admiral Horatio Nelson, who was stationed here from 1784 to 1787, although he himself considered English Harbour an "infernal hole." Today, Nelson's Dockyard is part of Nelson's Dockyard National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site encompassing nearly 16 square miles of historical and natural sites. Visitors can explore the meticulously restored original buildings, which now house shops, hotels, restaurants, and the Dockyard Museum. The museum showcases the dockyard's history, naval artifacts, and exhibits about life at sea during the colonial period. The active marina is a popular stop for yachts of all sizes, adding to the site's vibrant atmosphere. A walk along the waterfront offers views of impressive vessels from around the world. The park also includes Shirley Heights, Dow's Hill Interpretation Center, and Clarence House, all offering additional insights into Antigua's naval past and stunning panoramic views.

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