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Fort Frederick: A Backward Glance with Panoramic Views

Explore Grenada's colonial past at Fort Frederick, offering panoramic views and a unique 'backward-facing' design.

4.5

Perched atop Richmond Hill, Fort Frederick offers stunning panoramic views of St. George's and the Grenadian landscape. Built by the French and completed by the British, this remarkably well-preserved bastion never fired a shot in anger, offering a unique glimpse into the island's colonial past.

A brief summary to Fort Frederick

Local tips

  • Visit during the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photos and to avoid the midday heat.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven surfaces and exploring the fort's grounds.
  • Bring a flashlight to explore the short tunnels located at the base of the fort.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Fort Matthew for a more comprehensive historical experience.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in St. George's and can provide a direct route to Fort Frederick. A taxi ride from the city center typically costs between EC$25 to EC$30. Ensure the driver has a visible ID and a rate card to avoid overcharging. The journey takes approximately 15-20 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Local buses heading towards St. George's can be caught from the Grand Anse Bus Terminal. The bus fare is approximately EC$2.00. Inform the driver that you wish to get off near Fort Frederick on Richmond Hill. From the drop-off point, it is a short, uphill walk to the fort entrance.

  • Walking

    For those inclined to walk, Fort Frederick is approximately a two-mile hike from the center of St. George's. The walk is uphill and takes around 45 minutes to an hour. Follow the road towards Richmond Hill. Be prepared for a steep climb.

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Discover more about Fort Frederick

Fort Frederick, one of the best-preserved bastions in the Caribbean, sits majestically atop Richmond Hill, offering panoramic views of St. George's and the surrounding Grenadian landscape. Construction began in 1779 by the French, after they regained control of Grenada from the British. The British completed the fort in 1783. Ironically, it was intended to defend against land-based attacks, leading to its nickname, the "backward-facing fort," as its cannons pointed inland rather than out to sea. Visitors can explore the fort's well-preserved ramparts, gun emplacements, and network of tunnels, gaining insight into Grenada's military past. From its vantage point, 244 meters (800 feet) above sea level, Fort Frederick offers striking views of the azure Caribbean Sea, lush mountain ridges, and the colorful town of St. George's. The fort is open to the public daily from 8 am to 5 pm, providing ample opportunity to experience its historical significance and breathtaking vistas. During the 1979 Grenada Revolution, Fort Frederick served as the headquarters for the motorized division of the People's Revolutionary Army. The fort is comprised of four levels, including the upper level, called the place of arms, with a powder magazine, the second level with water cisterns, encasement chambers, and gun batteries, and the third level, an interesting network of tunnels built for provision stores.

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