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Fort Frederick: A Backward Glance at History

Explore Grenada's colonial past at Fort Frederick, offering panoramic views and a unique 'backward-facing' design on Richmond Hill. A photographer's dream!

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Perched atop Richmond Hill, Fort Frederick offers panoramic views of St. George's and the Grenadian landscape. Built by the French in the late 18th century and completed by the British, this remarkably well-preserved bastion never fired a shot in anger. Its cannons, facing inland, earned it the nickname 'Backward Facing Fort'.

A brief summary to Fort Frederick

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best light for photography and to avoid the midday heat.
  • Wear comfortable shoes as there is some walking and steps involved in exploring the fort.
  • Bring cash for the entrance fee, as card payments may not be accepted.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the fort's history and significance.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From St. George's, a taxi is a convenient way to reach Fort Frederick. Taxis are readily available in the city center. Ensure the driver has a visible ID and agree on the fare before starting your journey. The ride takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Expect to pay around EC$40-54 (US$15-20) for a one-way trip. Some taxi services offer tours that include Fort Frederick.

  • Public Transport

    Local buses run from St. George's to the Richmond Hill area near Fort Frederick. From the bus stop, there is an uphill walk of approximately 15-20 minutes to reach the fort. The bus fare is around EC$2.50 (less than US$1). Be prepared for a steep walk, but the views are worth the effort.

  • Walking

    For those inclined to walk, Fort Frederick is approximately a 2-mile (3.2 km) hike from the center of St. George's. The walk is uphill and takes around 45-60 minutes. Follow the main road towards Richmond Hill. Be prepared for a strenuous walk, especially in the heat.

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Discover more about Fort Frederick

Fort Frederick, located on Richmond Hill, stands as a testament to Grenada's colonial past and strategic importance. Constructed between 1779 and 1783 during the tug-of-war between the French and British, the fort offers visitors panoramic views of St. George's, the Caribbean Sea, and the island's lush interior. Built by the French to defend against inland attacks after they seized Grenada from the British, Fort Frederick is unique in that its cannons faced inland. The British completed the fort after regaining control of the island. The fort never saw battle, adding to its unique history. Visitors can explore the fort's well-preserved ramparts, gun emplacements, and tunnels, gaining insight into the island's military history. The views from the top are unforgettable, encompassing the colorful town of St. George's to the south and the island's verdant landscape to the north. Fort Frederick provides a window into Grenada's past and offers stunning views.

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