Fort Shirley Travel Guide

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 against invasions, especially from the French, housing up to 600 soldiers. The Georgian architecture, designed by Fraser and Bruce, utilized the natural defenses of the volcanic crater in which it was built.Inside the fort, visitors can explore gun batteries, cisterns, magazines, storehouses, bakeries, a forge, barracks, and officer's quarters. The site is also known for the 1802 rebellion of slave soldiers from the 8th West India Regiment, which contributed to the emancipation of slave soldiers in the British Empire by 1807. Abandoned in 1854, restoration began in 1982 under Dr. Lennox Honychurch, and today, parts of Fort Shirley have been restored for various uses, including events and tourism.Located on a scenic peninsula just north of Portsmouth, Fort Shirley offers stunning views of Prince Rupert Bay, nearby beaches, and the mountains. The Officer's Quarters has been renovated and is now used for weddings, receptions, and concerts. The fort is part of Cabrits National Park, established in 1986 to protect diverse ecosystems, offering hiking, birdwatching, snorkeling, and diving.