Fort Shirley: A Caribbean Bastion of History
Discover Dominica's colonial past at Fort Shirley, a historic fort with stunning views and a captivating story within Cabrits National Park.
Explore Fort Shirley, a beautifully restored 18th-century British garrison nestled within Dominica's Cabrits National Park. This historical site offers stunning views, a glimpse into colonial life, and the intriguing story of the 8th West India Regiment revolt, which contributed to the emancipation of enslaved soldiers in the British Empire.
A brief summary to Fort Shirley
- HGMG+7HV, Portsmouth, DM
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the fort involves walking on uneven terrain.
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy a quieter experience.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning panoramic views of Prince Rupert Bay and Douglas Bay.
- Consider taking a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the fort's history and significance.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Cabrits National Park entrance, follow the marked trails leading to Fort Shirley. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes uphill. The path is well-maintained but can be steep in sections. Look for signs directing you to the fort. There is an entrance fee of $5 USD per person to enter Cabrits National Park, which includes access to Fort Shirley.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From Portsmouth, a taxi to the entrance of Cabrits National Park costs approximately $10-15 USD. From the park entrance, it's a 15-20 minute walk to Fort Shirley. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Remember to factor in the $5 USD park entrance fee upon arrival.
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Public Transport
From the main bus terminal in Portsmouth, you can take a minibus heading towards Cabrits National Park. Look for buses marked 'Cabrits' or 'Douglas Bay' at the Portsmouth bus stop. The fare is around $3-5 XCD (Eastern Caribbean Dollars). Ask the driver to drop you off at the entrance to the park. From there, it's an uphill walk to Fort Shirley. Don't forget the $5 USD park entrance fee.
Discover more about Fort Shirley
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Purple Turtle Beach Club
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InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa, an IHG Hotel
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Indian River
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Cabrits Dive Center
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Kenan Shawarma King
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Plantation Grove Restaurant Club and Bar
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Douglas Bay Battery
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Fort Shirley Cabrits National Park
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Douglas Bay Beach Park
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Indian River Tours
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Bwa Nef Falls
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Essential places to dine
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Bell Hall Beach Spot
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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VinJ's Enterprise
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3C's SPOTLIGHT Restaurant & Bar
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Jason Hamilton Bar and Grill
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What Is Man Bar
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