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Fort Barrington National Park: Antigua's Coastal Sentinel

Explore historic ruins with panoramic Caribbean views at Fort Barrington National Park. Hike, discover, and capture stunning vistas.

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Fort Barrington National Park offers a blend of history and stunning Caribbean scenery. Explore the ruins of an 18th-century fort, perched atop Goat Hill, with panoramic views of Deep Bay, St. John's Harbour, and neighboring islands. It's a short but rewarding climb to a piece of Antigua's colonial past.

A brief summary to Fort Barrington National Park

  • Beach Trail, AG
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the fort's uneven surfaces and paths.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities within the park.
  • Don't forget your camera; the views are perfect for capturing memorable moments.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to Deep Bay Beach for a relaxing day by the sea.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From St. John's, take the Line 61 bus from West Bus Terminal to Five Island Village. Buses depart every 15 minutes and cost $1 EC. From Five Island Village, it's a short walk to the entrance of Fort Barrington National Park.

  • Taxi

    From St. John's, a taxi to Fort Barrington National Park will take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. The fare will be around $12-$15 USD. The taxi will drop you off near the entrance of the park on Beach Trail.

  • Walking

    From Deep Bay Beach, head towards the east side of the beach and look for a path leading up to the fort. The hike is relatively easy and offers beautiful views of the coastline. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes. The walk from the beach to the fort takes approximately 15-20 minutes.

Unlock the Best of Fort Barrington National Park

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Discover more about Fort Barrington National Park

Fort Barrington National Park, situated on a hillside overlooking the Caribbean Sea, is a captivating destination that combines natural beauty with historical significance. Built in 1779 by the British, the fort, also known as the Cripplegate Battery or the Queen's Battery, was strategically positioned to protect St. John's Harbour from French attacks. Its location atop Goat Hill provided a clear vantage point for monitoring ship movements and signaling to nearby Rat Island. Today, visitors can explore the partly overgrown ruins, including remnants of the guard house, gunpowder magazine, and the large gun emplacements. The site offers panoramic views of Deep Bay, the coastline, and the azure waters of the Caribbean Sea. From this vantage point, one can often see Montserrat, Sandy Island, and Redonda on a clear day. The park is open year-round and offers a short but invigorating climb to the top of Goat Hill. The trails are generally accessible, but sturdy shoes are recommended for navigating the rocky and uneven terrain. After exploring the fort, visitors can descend to Deep Bay Beach for a relaxing swim or picnic. Fort Barrington saw action, being captured and liberated from the French multiple times. Exploring the ruins provides a glimpse into Antigua's colonial past and the strategic importance of the island in the Caribbean.

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