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Fort Berkeley: Guardian of English Harbour

Explore Antigua's oldest fort, Fort Berkeley, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the island's colonial past.

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Explore Fort Berkeley, the oldest fortification in English Harbour, Antigua, dating back to 1704. Wander through the partially restored ruins, including the gunpowder magazine and original cannons, and enjoy panoramic views of the harbor and coastline.

A brief summary to Fort Berkeley

  • 263P+QMP, Fort Berkeley, Antigua, and Barbuda, AG

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for the nature trail and exploring the fort's uneven terrain.
  • Bring a camera to capture the panoramic views of English Harbour and the coastline.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Nelson's Dockyard, follow the clearly marked Fort Berkeley Trail. The walk is approximately 10 minutes and offers scenic views of the harbor. The trail is moderately easy, but sturdy shoes are recommended.

  • Public Transport

    Take bus #17 from St. John's West Bus Station to English Harbour. Get off at the final stop near Nelson's Dockyard. From there, follow the walking directions to Fort Berkeley. Bus fare is approximately EC$2.25.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available from V.C. Bird International Airport or St. John's. Request a ride to Nelson's Dockyard, which is the closest drop-off point to Fort Berkeley. From the airport, the taxi fare is approximately US$21. From Nelson's Dockyard, follow the walking directions to Fort Berkeley.

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Discover more about Fort Berkeley

Fort Berkeley, situated at the entrance to English Harbour in Antigua, is a historic military site dating back to 1704. Constructed by the colonial government, it initially served as a simple enclosed area with a guardhouse. In the 1740s, with the expansion of the Naval Dockyard, the fort underwent significant expansion. Over the years, Fort Berkeley played a crucial role in protecting English Harbour, offering strategic views of approaching vessels. In 1784, it was officially handed over to the Crown, and the British military added a gunpowder magazine in 1807. The fort was armed with 29 guns, including mounted cannons, and even had an iron chain that could be raised across the harbor entrance to prevent ships from entering. Today, visitors can explore the partially restored fort, including the powder magazine, guard house, and crenelated walls. A cannon from 1805 remains in its original position. The site is accessible via a short nature trail, offering stunning views of English Harbour, Galleon Beach, and the Pillars of Hercules. Fort Berkeley is part of Nelson's Dockyard National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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