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Nelson's Dockyard: A Georgian Naval Gem

Explore Antigua's naval history at Nelson's Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning Georgian architecture and a vibrant marina.

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Step back in time at Nelson's Dockyard, a meticulously restored Georgian-era naval dockyard in Antigua. Explore historic buildings, wander along the marina filled with impressive yachts, and immerse yourself in the island's rich maritime past. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nelson's Dockyard offers a unique blend of history, culture, and stunning scenery.

A brief summary to Nelson's Dockyard

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the dockyard's cobblestone streets and nearby hiking trails.
  • Visit the Dockyard Museum to learn about the history of the dockyard and its role in British naval operations.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to Shirley Heights for panoramic views of English Harbour and the surrounding coastline. Your entry ticket to Nelson's Dockyard includes access to Shirley Heights.
  • Check the schedule for special events and sailing regattas that take place in the dockyard throughout the year.
  • Bring cash for the entrance fee, as online ticket purchases are not available.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    If driving from St. John's, follow All Saints Road south for approximately 40 minutes. The entrance to Nelson's Dockyard is at the end of Dockyard Drive in English Harbour. There is a free car park directly outside the entrance. Be aware that parking can be limited, especially during peak season. According to the National Parks (Nelson's Dockyard Parking) Regulations, parking is only permitted with a valid parking permit issued by the Parks Commissioner.

  • Public Transport

    From St. John's, take the Line 17 bus from the West Bus Station to English Harbour. The bus journey takes approximately 1 hour and costs around $2 USD. The bus terminates near the entrance to Nelson's Dockyard. Buses depart every 15 minutes, but the bus may wait to depart until it is full.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available from most locations in Antigua. A taxi from the cruise ship dock to Nelson's Dockyard will cost approximately $24-$30 USD and take around 22 minutes. From Antigua Airport (ANU), a taxi to Nelson's Dockyard will cost $50-$65 USD and take around 26 minutes.

  • Walking

    If you are already in English Harbour, the entrance to Nelson's Dockyard is a short walk from the Antigua Yacht Club, approximately 10 minutes. Follow Dockyard Drive to the end of the road. The Dockyard is within easy walking distance of other attractions in English Harbour, such as Galleon Beach and Fort Berkeley.

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Discover more about Nelson's Dockyard

Nelson's Dockyard, located within Nelson's Dockyard National Park in English Harbour, Antigua, is a beautifully preserved example of an 18th-century British naval dockyard. Named after Admiral Horatio Nelson, who served here from 1784 to 1787, the dockyard offers a fascinating glimpse into the island's colonial past and its strategic importance in Caribbean naval history. Construction of the dockyard began in the 1740s, with enslaved laborers playing a crucial role in its development. Over the decades, it grew into a vital base for the Royal Navy, providing a safe harbor, repair facilities, and logistical support for ships operating in the region. The dockyard's importance gradually declined in the late 19th century due to advancements in naval technology that favored larger, more complex vessels. The Royal Navy officially closed the dockyard in 1889. After falling into disrepair, restoration efforts began in the 1950s, transforming the site into a popular tourist attraction. Today, Nelson's Dockyard stands as the only continuously working Georgian-era dockyard in the world, offering visitors a chance to explore its historic buildings, including the Dockyard Museum, housed in the former Naval Officer's House. The museum showcases exhibits related to the dockyard's history and life at sea. The park also includes Shirley Heights, Clarence House and Dow's Hill Interpretation Centre. Visitors can wander through the dockyard's charming streets, admire the meticulously restored architecture, and soak in the atmosphere of this unique historical site. The active marina adds to the ambiance, with luxury yachts from around the world gracing its docks. Nelson's Dockyard was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016, recognizing its outstanding universal value and its significance as a cultural landmark.

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