Fort Shirley: A Caribbean Bastion of History and Nature
Explore Fort Shirley in Cabrits National Park: Where Caribbean history, stunning views, and natural beauty converge on Dominica's captivating peninsula.
Fort Shirley, nestled within Cabrits National Park in Dominica, is a meticulously restored 18th-century British garrison offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the island's colonial past. Explore its ramparts, barracks, and stunning views of Prince Rupert Bay, while immersing yourself in the rich history and natural beauty of this iconic landmark.
A brief summary to Fort Shirley Cabrits National Park
- HGQP+WR3, Portsmouth, DM
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid midday heat and enjoy a quieter experience.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes due to uneven terrain.
- Bring water to stay hydrated in the tropical climate.
- Consider a guided tour for a comprehensive understanding of the fort's history.
- Check for special events or reenactments that may be taking place during your visit.
Getting There
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From Portsmouth, taxis are readily available to Cabrits National Park. The ride is short, approximately 10-15 minutes, heading north from the town center. Agree on a fare before starting your journey; a typical one-way fare should be around EC$20-EC$30. The taxi will drop you off at the park entrance.
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Public Transport
Local buses (minibuses) operate from Portsmouth to the Cabrits National Park area. Look for buses labeled 'Cabrits' or 'Douglas Bay' at the main bus station in Portsmouth. The bus fare is around EC$5-EC$10 per person. The bus will drop you off near the park entrance, from where you can walk to the visitor center and Fort Shirley.
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Walking
If you are already in Portsmouth and enjoy walking, you can walk to Cabrits National Park. From the center of Portsmouth, follow the main road north towards the park. The walk takes approximately 30-45 minutes and offers scenic views of Prince Rupert Bay. There are no costs associated with walking.
Discover more about Fort Shirley Cabrits National Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa, an IHG Hotel
0.2 km
Discover luxury amidst nature at InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa, your gateway to an eco-paradise within Cabrits National Park.
Purple Turtle Beach Club
0.7 km
Experience Caribbean flavors and beachside bliss at Purple Turtle Beach Club, a vibrant Portsmouth gem with fresh seafood, lively events, and stunning ocean views.
Keepin'It Real
2.2 km
Experience beachfront dining, water sports, and authentic Caribbean flavors at Keepin' It Real on Dominica's tranquil Toucari Beach.
Indian River Tours
2.3 km
Discover Dominica's Indian River: A serene boat ride through lush mangroves, teeming with wildlife and steeped in history. A true nature escape.
Indian River
2.4 km
Discover Dominica's Indian River: A serene boat ride through lush mangroves, teeming with wildlife and steeped in history.
Cabrits Dive Center
3.5 km
Explore Dominica's pristine underwater world with Cabrits Dive Center, offering personalized diving experiences in a marine paradise.
Kenan Shawarma King
3.8 km
Savor the Middle Eastern flavors at Kenan Shawarma King in Portsmouth, Dominica! Enjoy delicious shawarmas, burgers, and more at affordable prices.
Coconut Beach (public beach)
4.1 km
Discover Portsmouth's Coconut Beach: a serene escape with tranquil waters, light brown sands, and stunning views, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Secret Bay
5.0 km
Discover Dominica's Secret Bay: An eco-luxury resort offering sustainable villas, personalized service, and breathtaking nature experiences.
Plantation Grove Restaurant Club and Bar
8.0 km
Experience exquisite dining with breathtaking Caribbean Sea views at Plantation Grove Restaurant Club and Bar in Dublanc, Dominica. A fusion of international and local flavors.
Unmissable attractions to see
Rainforest Riding
0.2 km
Experience the lush landscapes of Portsmouth on horseback, blending adventure and nature in an unforgettable riding journey through the rainforest.
Douglas Bay Beach Park
0.4 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Douglas Bay Beach Park, a perfect Caribbean getaway for relaxation and family fun in Portsmouth.
Douglas Bay Battery
1.2 km
Discover the historic Douglas Bay Battery in Portsmouth, a fascinating landmark offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the region's military past.
Cabrits National Park
1.3 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich history of Cabrits National Park in Dominica, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Fort Shirley
1.3 km
Explore the rich history and breathtaking views of Fort Shirley, a stunning historical attraction in Portsmouth, Dominica.
Fau Valley Canyon
1.4 km
Explore the breathtaking Fau Valley Canyon in Savanne Paille, a perfect blend of natural beauty and adventure amidst lush landscapes.
Cobra Tours & Yacht Services
2.3 km
Explore the stunning Indian River with Cobra Tours & Yacht Services - your adventure begins in the heart of Dominica's natural beauty.
Toucari Bay
2.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Toucari Bay in Dominica, a paradise for snorkeling, relaxation, and breathtaking coastal views.
Scenic viewpoint
3.2 km
Discover the tranquility and stunning vistas at the Scenic Viewpoint in Savanne Paille, a must-see spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Cold Soufrière
4.1 km
Experience the breathtaking geothermal beauty of Cold Soufrière in Dominica, a must-visit attraction for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Paradise Valley Garden Nursery
4.7 km
Discover the enchanting Paradise Valley Garden Nursery in Borne, where diverse plants and tranquil beauty await your visit.
Bwa Nef Falls
5.5 km
Explore the breathtaking Bwa Nef Falls in Penville, Dominica, where nature's beauty meets serene tranquility in a stunning tropical paradise.
St. Andrew Catholic Church
6.6 km
Explore St. Andrew Catholic Church in Vieille Case, a beautiful spiritual retreat surrounded by lush landscapes and vibrant community life.
Au Parc
7.0 km
Explore Au Parc in Vieille Case for a serene escape filled with natural beauty and rich cultural experiences in the heart of the Dominican Republic.
J&N bush bar and craft shop
7.3 km
Experience authentic Dominican flavors at J&N Bush Bar and Craft Shop, a charming spot for local cuisine and unique artisanal crafts.
Essential places to dine
Cabrits Market
0.2 km
Discover the flavors of Dominica at Cabrits Market - where local ingredients meet exquisite culinary artistry in a breathtaking setting.
Kwéyòl Beach Café
0.3 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavors at Kwéyòl Beach Café with stunning ocean views in Dominica.
Bell Hall Beach Spot
0.4 km
Experience family fun at Bell Hall Beach Spot in Portsmouth - where beautiful beaches meet delicious dining and unforgettable memories.
Roots Rock Bar & Restaurant
0.5 km
Experience authentic Dominican cuisine with stunning beach views at Roots Rock Bar & Restaurant - a culinary gem in Savanne Paille.
Sea Bird Bar & Grill
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and stunning views at Sea Bird Bar & Grill in Portsmouth - where every meal is a celebration of Caribbean culture.
madiba beach café
0.8 km
Discover exquisite Caribbean cuisine at Madiba Beach Café in Portsmouth, where every meal is a celebration of local flavors and breathtaking ocean views.
Madiba Restaurant
0.8 km
Experience authentic Caribbean cuisine at Madiba Restaurant in Portsmouth - a must-visit culinary gem offering vibrant flavors and warm hospitality.
Kish Beach BBQ
1.0 km
Discover Kish Beach BBQ: A beachfront dining experience in Portsmouth with delicious grilled specialties and stunning sea views.
Poonkies
1.4 km
Discover Poonkies: A culinary haven in Savanne Paille offering exquisite local and international flavors amidst stunning natural beauty.
Monty's
1.6 km
Experience unparalleled seafood at Monty's Fish Grill in Portsmouth – where freshness meets flavor in every bite.
Ray's Roti
1.9 km
Discover the authentic taste of Caribbean cuisine at Ray's Roti in Portsmouth – where flavor meets tradition!
767 Exotic Rasta Bread
2.0 km
Discover authentic Caribbean flavors at 767 Exotic Rasta Bread – a delightful bakery and vegetarian deli in Portsmouth.
Cherry Reggage Bar&Grill
2.1 km
Experience Caribbean flavors at Cherry Reggage Bar & Grill in Portsmouth - where delicious cuisine meets breathtaking ocean views.
The Almond Deck
2.2 km
Experience exquisite Caribbean flavors at The Almond Deck in Toucari Village – where every meal is accompanied by breathtaking ocean views.
Iguana Café
2.6 km
Experience authentic Dominican flavors at Iguana Café in Portsmouth – where fresh seafood meets vibrant Caribbean culture.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Island Dive Operations
0.7 km
Discover an underwater paradise at Island Dive Operations in Portsmouth, where thrilling dives meet stunning marine biodiversity.
VinJ's Enterprise
0.8 km
Discover joy at VinJ's Enterprise, Portsmouth's delightful children's store featuring toys, books, and clothing for your little ones.
Joan's Creative Hands
1.1 km
Experience the joy of sewing and creativity at Joan's Creative Hands, a charming sewing shop in Cotton Hill Estate Buck, Portsmouth.
J C Ocean Adventures
1.2 km
Explore the vibrant underwater world of Dominica with J C Ocean Adventures, your premier dive shop in Cabrits National Park.
Yellow House Mini Mart
1.2 km
Explore local flavors and fresh produce at Yellow House Mini Mart in Portsmouth, a must-visit grocery store for an authentic Dominican experience.
FE MIMI MART
1.4 km
Explore the local flavors and essentials at FE MIMI MART, your go-to supermarket in Portsmouth, Dominica.
Crea's Closet
1.4 km
Discover the vibrant Caribbean fashion at Crea's Closet in Portsmouth, offering unique clothing and accessories for every style.
Meekeedee's
1.5 km
Explore the unique fashion offerings at Meekeedee's in Portsmouth, where local style meets international trends in a welcoming atmosphere.
Mayra's Originals
1.6 km
Discover custom fashion and exquisite tailoring at Mayra's Originals in Portsmouth, where every piece tells a unique story.
Fab Fashion 4 Less
1.6 km
Explore Fab Fashion 4 Less in Portsmouth for unbeatable beauty products and unique gifts at wallet-friendly prices.
Candy Girl Store
1.6 km
Explore the vibrant and playful clothing styles at Candy Girl Store in Portsmouth, where fashion meets the spirit of the Caribbean.
Northern Foods & Supplies
1.6 km
Discover the flavors of Dominica at Northern Foods & Supplies, your go-to grocery store for fresh produce and local delicacies in Portsmouth.
Compulse Solutions
1.7 km
Explore Compulse Solutions in Portsmouth for top-quality tools and hardware, exceptional service, and everything you need for your DIY projects.
TreatYours3lf
1.7 km
Explore unique men's fashion at TreatYours3lf in Portsmouth, where local flair meets contemporary style for every occasion.
Dblush Copy Center
1.7 km
Discover Dblush Copy Center in Portsmouth - the ideal print shop for tourists and locals, offering quality prints and exceptional service.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rumfire Bar
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant Rumfire Bar in Cabrits Douglas Bay, offering stunning ocean views and expertly crafted cocktails in a lively atmosphere.
Sounky's bar&grill
0.7 km
Discover local flavors and vibrant atmosphere at Sounky's Bar & Grill in Portsmouth, a must-visit culinary hotspot for tourists.
WATER FRONT REGGAE SPORT
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant culture of Portsmouth at Water Front Reggae Sport, where drinks and reggae music create unforgettable moments by the waterfront.
Matox Bar & Grill
0.9 km
Experience the local flavors and vibrant atmosphere at Matox Bar & Grill in Lagoon Village, Portsmouth - a culinary gem for every traveler.
Wop Wop Snacks and Bar
0.9 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Wop Wop Snacks and Bar in Portsmouth, where local flavors meet vibrant nightlife and unforgettable experiences.
Kish Tree View Bar & Grill Plus Yacht Services
1.0 km
Experience exquisite dining and breathtaking lagoon views at Kish Tree View Bar & Grill in Portsmouth, where culinary delights meet yacht adventures.
Smithy's Hawaiian Shaved Ice & Cakes
1.0 km
Experience the refreshing delight of Hawaiian shaved ice and custom cakes at Smithy's in Portsmouth, a must-visit treat for every traveler.
PRINCE RUPERT'S TAVERN
1.3 km
Experience the best of Portsmouth at Prince Rupert's Tavern, where delicious local cuisine meets a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Soursop Bar & Grill
1.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Caribbean cuisine at Soursop Bar & Grill in Portsmouth, a culinary gem for every traveler.
Paulina's Restaurant & Bar
1.7 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of breakfast at Paulina's Restaurant & Bar in Portsmouth, where every meal is a delightful start to your day.
Chill.A.Bit
1.7 km
Experience the laid-back charm of Chill.A.Bit in Savanne Paille, where refreshing drinks and local vibes await to enhance your Caribbean getaway.
3C's SPOTLIGHT Restaurant & Bar
1.7 km
Discover the flavors of the Caribbean at 3C's SPOTLIGHT Restaurant & Bar, a culinary gem in Portsmouth offering a delightful dining experience.
What Is Man Bar
1.8 km
Experience the authentic flavors and vibrant atmosphere of What Is Man Bar in Portsmouth, a must-visit for food lovers and cultural enthusiasts.
Jason Hamilton Bar and Grill
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine at Jason Hamilton Bar and Grill, Portsmouth's culinary hotspot for tourists and locals alike.
Sagittarius 2 Reggae Bar and Grill
1.9 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and rhythms of the Caribbean at Sagittarius 2 Reggae Bar and Grill in Portsmouth, Dominica.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Kb's Sunflower Bar & Grill
7.0 km
Kb's Sunflower Bar & Grill: A Culinary Gem in Paix Bouche Offering Local Flavors and Warm Hospitality.
Trevy's Place
7.3 km
Experience the best of local flavors at Trevy's Place, Thibaud's premier grill restaurant, where every meal is a celebration of culinary excellence.
NSE Night Club
8.4 km
Experience the pulsating nightlife of NSE Night Club in Anse De Mai, where unforgettable dance parties and vibrant atmospheres await.
Snakey's sports bar & Grethel's cuisine
8.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and authentic Caribbean flavors at Snakey's Sports Bar & Grethel's Cuisine in Dublanc, Dominica.
Voxy's Bar and Grill
9.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean at Voxy's Bar and Grill in Bense, where every meal is a celebration of taste.
The Hot Spot
13.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Calibishie at The Hot Spot, where local flavors and lively ambiance blend seamlessly for an unforgettable night out.
Impact Night Club
14.1 km
Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at Impact Night Club, where vibrant music and an electrifying atmosphere await in Woodford Hill.
767 HIDEAWAY
17.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and delectable dining at 767 Hideaway in Baroui, where fun meets flavor in a lively atmosphere.
Bar La Plage
19.4 km
Discover the laid-back charm of Bar La Plage, a tropical bar on Mero Beach perfect for cocktails, snacks, and stunning sunset views.
InDee's Beach Bar and Restaurant
19.4 km
Experience the flavors of the Caribbean at InDee's Beach Bar and Restaurant, a beachfront dining paradise in Dominica.
La croix bar and grill
20.8 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and friendly ambiance at La Croix Bar and Grill in St. Joseph, where every meal is a celebration of local cuisine.
Sammy's bar
21.1 km
Experience the charm of Sammy's Bar in Dominica, where local culture, drinks, and music come together for an unforgettable evening.
Pagua Bay Bar & Grill
21.4 km
Discover the taste of the Caribbean at Pagua Bay Bar & Grill, where American cuisine meets stunning bay views in Marigot.
Layou River
21.6 km
Experience the tranquility and natural beauty of Layou River, a stunning oasis in Dominica perfect for adventure and relaxation.
Tu
21.8 km
Discover the heartbeat of Mero's nightlife at Tu Disco Club, where every night promises unforgettable music and vibrant energy.
