Fort Shirley: A Caribbean Bastion of History
Step back in time at Fort Shirley, Dominica's historic 18th-century British garrison offering stunning views and a glimpse into the island's colonial past.
Explore Fort Shirley, a meticulously restored 18th-century British garrison within Dominica's Cabrits National Park. This historic site offers a glimpse into the island's colonial past, featuring well-preserved ruins and panoramic views.
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 better lighting for photography.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the terrain can be uneven.
- Bring water and snacks, as amenities within the park are limited.
- Consider taking a guided tour for a comprehensive understanding of the fort’s history.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Roseau, take a minibus heading towards Portsmouth. Minibuses leave from Roseau's River Bank near the New Market. The fare is around EC$5-EC$10. Ask the driver to drop you off near the entrance to Cabrits National Park. From there, walk uphill to Fort Shirley; the walk takes about 15-20 minutes.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From Portsmouth, a taxi to the entrance of Cabrits National Park costs approximately EC$25-EC$30. From the park entrance, it's a 15-20 minute walk uphill to Fort Shirley. You can arrange for the taxi to drop you off closer to the fort for an additional fee. Remember to factor in the park entrance fee of US$5 (EC$13.25) per person.
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Walking
From the center of Portsmouth, head north along the main road. The walk to the Cabrits National Park entrance is approximately 30-40 minutes. Once inside the park, follow the signs uphill to Fort Shirley, which adds another 15-20 minutes of walking. Note that there is an entrance fee of US$5 (EC$13.25) per person to enter Cabrits National Park.
Discover more about Fort Shirley
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Purple Turtle Beach Club
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InterContinental Dominica Cabrits Resort & Spa, an IHG Hotel
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Indian River Tours
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Indian River
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Secret Bay
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Douglas Bay Battery
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Fort Shirley Cabrits National Park
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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