Fort Shirley: A Caribbean Bastion of History
Step back in time at Fort Shirley in Dominica, a beautifully restored 18th-century fort offering history and stunning Caribbean views.
Explore Fort Shirley, a historic 18th-century British fort in Dominica's Cabrits National Park. Wander through the well-preserved ruins, imagining life as a soldier while enjoying panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and Dominica's lush landscape.
A brief summary to Fort Shirley
- HGMG+7HV, Portsmouth, DM
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and to enjoy the site in a quieter setting.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the terrain can be uneven.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.
- Consider taking a guided tour for a more comprehensive understanding of the fort's history.
- Check the schedule for special events or reenactments at the fort.
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Portsmouth, Fort Shirley is approximately a 20-minute walk. Head north along the waterfront, following the main road. Look for signs directing you to Cabrits National Park and Fort Shirley. The path is mostly uphill and can be uneven in places, so wear comfortable shoes. There is a EC$13 or US$5 entrance fee to enter Cabrits National Park, which includes access to Fort Shirley.
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Public Transport
Local minibuses frequently operate between Portsmouth and Cabrits National Park. Look for buses marked 'Cabrits' or 'Douglas Bay' at the Portsmouth bus stop. The fare is typically EC$5-EC$10 per person. The bus will drop you off near the entrance to Cabrits National Park, from where you can walk to Fort Shirley. The walk from the park entrance to the fort is uphill and takes about 15-20 minutes.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From central Portsmouth, taxis are readily available. A taxi ride to Fort Shirley, located within Cabrits National Park, typically costs around EC$25-EC$30. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. The ride is short, approximately 10-15 minutes, taking you directly to the park entrance. From there, it's a short walk uphill to the fort itself. A small entrance fee of US$5 or EC$13 per person is required to enter Cabrits National Park, which includes access to Fort Shirley.
Discover more about Fort Shirley
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Purple Turtle Beach Club
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine at Purple Turtle Beach Club, a gem in Portsmouth, Dominica's beautiful coastline.
InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa, an IHG Hotel
1.2 km
Experience unparalleled luxury amidst Dominica's natural splendor at the InterContinental Cabrits Resort & Spa, your gateway to pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant Caribbean culture.
Indian River
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Keepin'It Real
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Cabrits Dive Center
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Kenan Shawarma King
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Secret Bay
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Plantation Grove Restaurant Club and Bar
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Unmissable attractions to see
Cabrits National Park
0.3 km
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Douglas Bay Battery
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Fort Shirley Cabrits National Park
1.3 km
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Rainforest Riding
1.5 km
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Douglas Bay Beach Park
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Cobra Tours & Yacht Services
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Indian River Tours
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Fau Valley Canyon
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Toucari Bay
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Coconut Beach (public beach)
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Ripaton Beach
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Scenic viewpoint
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Cold Soufrière
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Paradise Valley Garden Nursery
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Bwa Nef Falls
6.8 km
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Essential places to dine
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1.2 km
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Sea Bird Bar & Grill
1.3 km
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Cabrits Market
1.3 km
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Madiba Restaurant
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madiba beach café
1.4 km
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Kish Beach BBQ
1.5 km
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Bell Hall Beach Spot
1.6 km
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Roots Rock Bar & Restaurant
1.7 km
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Monty's
2.0 km
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Ray's Roti
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767 Exotic Rasta Bread
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Cherry Reggage Bar&Grill
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Iguana Café
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Poonkies
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Oriental, C & D Restaurant and Beach Bar
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
J C Ocean Adventures
0.2 km
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Island Dive Operations
1.2 km
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VinJ's Enterprise
1.4 km
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Yellow House Mini Mart
1.7 km
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Crea's Closet
1.8 km
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FE MIMI MART
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Meekeedee's
1.9 km
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Northern Foods & Supplies
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Candy Girl Store
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Compulse Solutions
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Rumfire Bar
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Matox Bar & Grill
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Wop Wop Snacks and Bar
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Kish Tree View Bar & Grill Plus Yacht Services
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Smithy's Hawaiian Shaved Ice & Cakes
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Sounky's bar&grill
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Soursop Bar & Grill
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Paulina's Restaurant & Bar
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Sagittarius 2 Reggae Bar and Grill
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3C's SPOTLIGHT Restaurant & Bar
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Janus Bar
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Jason Hamilton Bar and Grill
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What Is Man Bar
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