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Nelson's Dockyard: A Georgian Era Gem in Antigua

Explore Antigua's UNESCO World Heritage Site: A historic Georgian dockyard, vibrant marina, and cultural hub in English Harbour.

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Nelson's Dockyard, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a beautifully restored Georgian-era naval dockyard and marina in English Harbour, Antigua. Explore historic buildings, learn about Admiral Nelson's time here, and soak in the atmosphere of this unique and still-functioning dockyard.

A brief summary to Nelson's Dockyard

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the dockyard's cobblestone streets and exploring the surrounding area.
  • Visit the Dockyard Museum to learn about the history of the dockyard and its significance in British naval history.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to Shirley Heights for panoramic views of English Harbour and the dockyard.
  • Check for special events or sailing regattas that may be taking place during your visit.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From St. John's, the capital of Antigua, take the Line 17 bus towards English Harbour. The bus departs from the West Bus Station and the journey takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic. The bus will terminate near the entrance to Nelson's Dockyard. The bus fare is approximately EC$3.50 (around US$1.30). Buses run every 15 minutes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available from St. John's to Nelson's Dockyard. The journey takes around 22 minutes. A taxi from St. John's to Nelson's Dockyard will cost approximately US$24 - $29. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Walking

    From the Antigua Yacht Club in English Harbour, Nelson's Dockyard is a short, approximately 10-minute walk. Follow the road along the waterfront, and you'll soon reach the entrance to the dockyard.

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Discover more about Nelson's Dockyard

Nelson's Dockyard, located in English Harbour, Antigua, is a beautifully preserved example of a Georgian-era naval dockyard. Named after Admiral Horatio Nelson, who was stationed here from 1784 to 1787, the dockyard served as a vital strategic base for the British Royal Navy during the 18th and 19th centuries. Construction of the dockyard began in the 1740s, with enslaved laborers playing a crucial role in its development. The dockyard grew to include workshops, storehouses, officers' quarters, and other essential facilities for maintaining the British fleet. Today, Nelson's Dockyard stands as the only continuously working Georgian-era dockyard in the world, offering visitors a unique glimpse into naval history. Explore the meticulously restored buildings, now housing shops, restaurants, hotels, and museums. Visit the Dockyard Museum, located in the former Naval Officer's House, to learn about the dockyard's history and its role in Caribbean naval operations. Take a stroll around the marina, where you can admire the impressive yachts and sailing vessels that frequent the harbor. The Dockyard is part of the wider Nelson's Dockyard National Park, which includes Shirley Heights, Clarence House and Dow's Hill Interpretation Centre. A visit to Nelson's Dockyard is a journey back in time, offering a fascinating insight into Antigua's rich maritime heritage.

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