Fort Shirley: A Caribbean Bastion of History
Discover Dominica's past at Fort Shirley in Cabrits National Park: a historic site with stunning views and a pivotal role in Caribbean heritage.
Explore Fort Shirley, a meticulously restored 18th-century British garrison within Dominica's Cabrits National Park, offering an immersive journey into the island's past. Wander through well-preserved ruins and soak in panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea.
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 cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain, as exploring the fort involves some climbing and walking.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning panoramic views of Prince Rupert's Bay and the surrounding coastline.
- Consider taking a guided tour for a more in-depth understanding of the fort's history and its role in Dominica's past.
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 US$5 or EC$13 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
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InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa, an IHG Hotel
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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
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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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Sea Bird Bar & Grill
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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
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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
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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
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FE MIMI MART
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Meekeedee's
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Northern Foods & Supplies
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Candy Girl Store
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Fab Fashion 4 Less
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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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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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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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