From Eve
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Nelson's Dockyard.
Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.
Nelson's Dockyard: A Georgian Era Gem
Explore Antigua's naval history at Nelson's Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning Georgian architecture and a bustling marina.
Step back in time at Nelson's Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world's only continuously working Georgian-era dockyard. Explore restored 18th- and 19th-century buildings, a museum, and a bustling marina filled with impressive yachts.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Nelson's Dockyard
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Discover more about Nelson's Dockyard
Nelson's Dockyard, nestled in English Harbour, Antigua, is a captivating journey into the island's rich maritime past. Named after Admiral Horatio Nelson, who was stationed here in the late 18th century, this UNESCO World Heritage Site once served as a strategic base for the British Royal Navy.
Construction of the dockyard began in the 1740s, with enslaved laborers playing a crucial role. The dockyard grew to support the Royal Navy during conflicts with France, providing a safe harbor and repair facilities for its fleet. Today, meticulously restored buildings house shops, hotels, restaurants, and the Dockyard Museum, offering a glimpse into life during the colonial era.
Explore the Dockyard Museum, housed in the former Naval Officer's House, to delve deeper into the site's history. Wander along the marina, admiring the impressive yachts from around the world. Hike the Middle Ground Trail to Fort Berkeley for idyllic views of English Harbour. Nelson's Dockyard is more than just a historical site; it's a vibrant blend of history, heritage, and natural beauty.
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Getting There
Bus
From St. John's, take the #17 bus to Nelson's Dockyard. The bus departs from the West Bus Station every 15 minutes and the journey takes approximately 1 hour. The fare is approximately $2 USD. From Antigua Airport (ANU), take the Line 42 bus to East Bus Station, then transfer to the West Bus Station to catch the Line 17 bus to English Harbour. The total journey takes around 1 hour and 47 minutes and costs about $3 USD.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available from St. John's or the airport. A taxi from the Cruise Ship Dock to Nelson's Dockyard is approximately $24-$30 USD and takes about 22 minutes. From the Antigua Airport (ANU), a taxi to Nelson's Dockyard costs $50-$65 USD and takes around 26 minutes.
Car
If driving from St. John's, follow All Saints Road to English Harbour. The drive takes approximately 40 minutes. There is a large, free car park directly outside the entrance to Nelson's Dockyard. Note that parking within the Dockyard may require a valid parking card.
A brief summary to Nelson's Dockyard
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