Fort Shirley, Saint Andrew Travel Guide

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Discover Dominica's colonial past at Fort Shirley, a historic fortress offering stunning views and a glimpse into Caribbean resilience.

Explore Fort Shirley, a restored 18th-century British fort within Dominica's Cabrits National Park. This historic site offers stunning views, Georgian architecture, and a glimpse into the island's colonial past, including the famous 1802 revolt of African slave soldiers.

A brief summary to Fort Shirley

HGMG+7HV, Portsmouth, DM

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Fort Shirley.

Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and enjoy a quieter experience.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as the terrain is uneven and there's a fair amount of walking involved.
Bring water and sun protection, as there are limited facilities on site.
Consider a guided tour for a more in-depth understanding of the fort's history and significance.

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Explore Fort Shirley on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Fort Shirley, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transport

From the main bus station in Saint Peter, take a minibus heading towards Portsmouth. The fare is about EC$3-5, and the journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes. Ask the driver to drop you off near Fort Shirley. From there, it's a short walk to the entrance. Local minibuses also frequently operate between Portsmouth and Cabrits National Park for EC$5-EC$10 per person.
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. Be sure to confirm the price before you begin your journey.
Driving

From Portsmouth, follow the main road north towards Cabrits National Park. The drive is short, approximately 5-10 minutes. There is a park entrance fee of US$5 (EC$13.25) per person for non-residents. Parking is available near the fort entrance.
Walking

If you are already in Portsmouth and enjoy walking, you can walk to Cabrits National Park and Fort Shirley. From the center of Portsmouth, head north along the waterfront. The walk will take approximately 20 minutes. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as the path may be uneven.

Discover more about Fort Shirley

Fort Shirley, nestled within the Cabrits National Park in Dominica, is a captivating historical site that unveils the island's rich European past. Constructed in 1765 by the British, the fort served as a crucial defense in the Lesser Antilles during the 18th and 19th centuries, primarily against French invasions. Named after Sir Thomas Shirley, it stands as a testament to the island's strategic importance during colonial times.The fort's architecture, designed in the Georgian style by Fraser and Bruce, is a marvel in itself, cleverly utilizing the natural defenses of a volcanic crater. The site comprises over 50 buildings, including gun batteries, cisterns, powder magazines, and barracks capable of housing up to 600 men. Walking trails wind through the grounds, linking the various sections of the garrison and offering panoramic views of Prince Rupert’s Bay and the surrounding coastline.Fort Shirley is most notably known for the 1802 revolt of the 8th West India Regiment, where African slave soldiers, protesting poor conditions and fearing re-enslavement, took control of the garrison for three days. This revolt significantly influenced the Mutiny Act of 1807, leading to the emancipation of all slave soldiers in the British Army. Abandoned in 1854, the fort has undergone significant restoration since 1982, spearheaded by Dominican historian Dr. Lennox Honychurch. Today, the restored Officers' Quarters serve as a venue for events, while the entire site functions as a tourism hub, inviting visitors to step back into Dominica's past.Visiting Fort Shirley offers a unique blend of history and nature. Explore the ramparts, imagine life as a soldier, and soak in the breathtaking views. The surrounding Cabrits National Park, established in 1986, offers opportunities for hiking, snorkeling, and diving, making it a destination that appeals to both history buffs and nature lovers.