Fort Shirley: A Caribbean Bastion of History

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Step back into Dominica's European past at Fort Shirley, a beautifully restored 18th-century British fort offering history and stunning views.

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Fort Shirley

Explore Fort Shirley, a meticulously restored 18th-century British garrison within Dominica's Cabrits National Park. Wander through the ruins, climb the ramparts, and soak in panoramic views of Prince Rupert Bay while immersing yourself in the island's rich history and natural beauty.

A brief summary to Fort Shirley

HGMG+7HV, Portsmouth, DM

Local tips

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy the best lighting for photography.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the terrain within the fort and surrounding trails can be uneven.
Consider hiring a local guide for a more in-depth understanding of the fort's history and significance.
Bring water and snacks, as amenities within the park are limited.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Portsmouth, local buses (minibuses) frequently travel towards Cabrits National Park. Ask the driver to drop you off at the park entrance. The bus fare from Portsmouth is around EC$2.50. From the entrance, it's a moderately steep walk uphill to Fort Shirley, approximately 20-30 minutes.
Taxi/Ride-Share

From the Portsmouth Ferry Terminal or the center of Portsmouth, a taxi ride to Fort Shirley, located within Cabrits National Park, is a convenient option. The ride takes approximately 10-15 minutes. A typical fare costs around $10-$15 USD. Confirm the price with the driver before starting your journey.
Walking

If you are already within Cabrits National Park, follow the well-marked trail signs directing you to Fort Shirley. The walk from the park entrance to the fort takes about 15-20 minutes, offering scenic views along the way. Note that there is a park entrance fee of US$5 (EC$13.25) per person for non-residents.

Discover more about Fort Shirley

Fort Shirley, nestled within Dominica's Cabrits National Park, stands as a testament to the island's rich and often turbulent history. Constructed in 1765 by the British, the fort was a key defensive structure designed to protect the northern coast of Dominica. The fort is named for Sir Thomas Shirley, Governor of the Leeward Islands at the time.From 1778 to 1784, the French extended the fort during their occupation of Dominica. Built of brick and stone in the Georgian architectural style, it consisted of more than 50 buildings, including seven gun batteries, seven cisterns, powder magazines, and ordnance storehouses, as well as barracks that could house over 600 men.Fort Shirley is also notable for the 1802 revolt of slave soldiers from the 8th West India Regiment, which contributed to the emancipation of slave soldiers in the British Empire by 1807. By the 1850s, the fort had fallen out of use and was abandoned in 1854.Since 1982, parts of Fort Shirley have been restored for various uses, including events and tourism. Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins, climb the ramparts, and imagine life as a soldier stationed at this remote outpost. Cannons still stand guard, offering stunning views of Prince Rupert Bay and Douglas Bay, providing a sense of the fort's strategic importance. The Officer's Quarters has undergone a major renovation and is now home to weddings, receptions, concerts, and other events.