Fort Shirley Travel Guide

Fort Shirley, nestled in Dominica's Cabrits National Park, is a testament to the island's rich and turbulent history. Constructed by the British in 1765, the fort was a key defense in the Lesser Antilles during the 18th and 19th centuries. Designed by British Royal Engineers Fraser and Bruce in the Georgian architectural style, the fort could house up to 600 soldiers and featured gun batteries, cisterns, magazines, and barracks.Fort Shirley is also notable for the 1802 revolt of slave soldiers from the 8th West India Regiment, which contributed to the emancipation of slave soldiers in the British Empire by 1807. The fort was abandoned in 1854 but underwent restoration starting in 1982. Today, visitors can explore the ruins, climb the walls, and imagine life in this strategic outpost. The Officer's Quarters has been renovated and is now used for events.Located on a scenic peninsula just north of Portsmouth, Fort Shirley offers stunning views of Prince Rupert Bay and the surrounding mountains. It is part of Cabrits National Park, established in 1986 to protect diverse ecosystems. The park offers hiking, birdwatching, snorkeling and diving.