Fort Matthew, Guava Travel Guide

4.4 (21)

Explore Grenada's largest fort, Fort Matthew, for stunning views and a journey through colonial and military history. A must-see landmark!

Home
Travel Guides
Grenada
Guava
Fort Matthew

Fort Matthew, constructed between 1784 and 1790, is the largest fort in Grenada, offering a glimpse into the island's colonial past. Once a battleground and later a mental institution, it provides panoramic views of St. George's and the Caribbean Sea.

A brief summary to Fort Matthew

3726+4Q7, St George's, GD
Click to display

Monday 8 am-6 pm
Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
Wednesday 8 am-6 pm
Thursday 8 am-6 pm
Friday 8 am-6 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and optimal lighting for photography.
Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the fort involves walking on uneven surfaces.
Bring a camera to capture the panoramic views of St. George's and the coastline.
Consider joining a guided tour for deeper insights into the fort's history and significance.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Welcome Stone

Sir Eric Gairy Botanical Gardens

Water View Grenada

Black bay black sand beach

Anse La Roche Bay

Explore Fort Matthew on the Map

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

Getting There

Public Transport

From the main bus terminal in St. George's, take a Morne Jaloux bus and inform the driver you wish to get off at Fort Matthew. The bus ride costs approximately EC$2.50. From the drop-off point, follow the signs for a short uphill walk to the fort.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in St. George's. A taxi ride to Fort Matthew from the town center typically costs between EC$25-32 (US$9-12) and takes about 10-15 minutes. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
Walking

From the center of St. George's, it is approximately a 20-minute walk to Fort Matthew. Head towards Richmond Hill, following the main road uphill. Look for signs indicating the direction to Fort Matthew. Be prepared for a moderately steep incline.

Discover more about Fort Matthew

Perched on Richmond Hill, Fort Matthew stands as a testament to Grenada's complex history. Built by the French after recapturing the island in 1779, the fort was completed by the British between 1784 and 1790 and named after then-Governor Edward Matthew. Its strategic location made it a key defensive point, offering commanding views of St. George's harbor and the surrounding coastline.Throughout its history, Fort Matthew has served various roles. Besides being a military stronghold during the battles between the French and English for control of Grenada, it was also used as a mental institution for the Windward Islands starting in 1880. The fort's intriguing network of tunnels, army kitchens, and cell blocks remain largely intact, providing visitors with a tangible connection to the past. Although partially destroyed by U.S. forces during the 1983 invasion of Grenada, the fort's ruins offer a unique glimpse into 18th-century military architecture.Today, visitors can explore the fort's grounds, wander through its tunnels, and take in the breathtaking views of St. George's, including the Melville Street Cruise Port, St. George's University, and the Carenage. The site is ideal for history buffs, photography enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a tranquil spot to appreciate Grenada's natural beauty.