The Blockhouse, Liberta Travel Guide

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Explore The Blockhouse in Antigua: A historic fortress with stunning views, offering a glimpse into the island's colonial past.

The Blockhouse, located in Piccadilly, Antigua, is a historical military fortress offering panoramic views of the island's coastline. Built in the 18th century, it stands as a testament to Antigua's colonial past and strategic importance in the Caribbean.

A brief summary to The Blockhouse

2723+488, Piccadilly, AG

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring The Blockhouse.

Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Bring your camera for breathtaking views and to capture the architectural details of The Blockhouse.
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the site and surrounding areas.
Check for any guided tour schedules to enhance your understanding of the history behind The Blockhouse.

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Explore The Blockhouse on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near The Blockhouse, mapped for you.

Getting There

Taxi

From English Harbour, a taxi ride to The Blockhouse takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Taxis are readily available in English Harbour. Agree on a fare before starting your journey. The approximate cost is $35 - $45 USD. The taxi will drop you off near the entrance of The Blockhouse.
Walking

If you are already in the Piccadilly area, walking to The Blockhouse is an option. Follow Piccadilly Road, and look for signs indicating the direction to The Blockhouse. The walk involves some inclines, so wear comfortable shoes. The walk takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on your starting point in Piccadilly.
Public Transport

From St. John’s, take a bus towards English Harbour. Ask the driver to drop you off near Piccadilly or the closest point to The Blockhouse. From there, you may need to walk or take a short taxi ride to reach the site. Bus fares are typically around $2.25 EC (Eastern Caribbean Dollars) which is less than $1 USD. Be prepared for a 20-30 minute walk uphill from the main road to the Blockhouse.

Discover more about The Blockhouse

Perched on a hilltop in Piccadilly, Antigua, The Blockhouse is a captivating historical site that offers visitors a glimpse into the island's colonial past. Originally constructed as a military fortress in 1789, it served as a strategic lookout point for British soldiers, providing unobstructed views of Antigua's west coast and the southern approaches to English Harbour.The Blockhouse was continuously occupied until 1854, when the last British regiment departed. Today, visitors can explore the remnants of the Officers' Quarters, the Enlisted Men's Barracks, and the central cistern, gaining insight into the lives of the soldiers who once garrisoned the complex. Informative plaques dot the area, providing historical context and details about the construction methods used.Beyond its historical significance, The Blockhouse offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. From this vantage point, you can see French Guadeloupe on a clear day and, during whale migrations, even spot Humpbacks breaching off the coast. The site is also a popular spot for watching the sunset and moonrise, creating a serene and picturesque atmosphere. The Blockhouse Loop trail starts and finishes in the ruins, offering a scenic hiking experience for those who wish to explore the area further.