Fort Frederick: A Backward Glance at History

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Explore Grenada's colonial history at Fort Frederick, offering panoramic views from a unique 'backward-facing' perspective.

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Fort Frederick

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

A brief summary to Fort Frederick

27X6+7XH, Richmond Hill, GD
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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

Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven surfaces within the fort.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning panoramic views of St. George's and the surrounding coastline.
Consider visiting nearby Fort Matthew for a more comprehensive historical experience.

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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 a rate card. The ride to Fort Frederick takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Expect to pay around $15-$19 USD for the trip.
Public Transport

Local buses run from St. George's to the Richmond Hill area near Fort Frederick. From the bus stop, it's a short uphill walk to the fort. Bus fares are typically around EC$2.50 (approximately $1 USD). Be prepared for a steep walk.
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 about 45 minutes to an hour. Follow the road towards Richmond Hill. Be prepared for a strenuous walk in the tropical heat.

Discover more about Fort Frederick

Fort Frederick, located on Richmond Hill overlooking St. George's, Grenada, is a testament to the island's colonial past. Constructed between 1779 and 1783 during the conflict between the French and British, the fort stands 244 meters (800 feet) above sea level. The French began construction in 1779 after regaining control of Grenada, realizing the strategic importance of defending against inland attacks. Ironically, after the British captured Grenada in 1795, they completed the fort, which was named after Frederick, the Duke of York. Despite its formidable appearance, Fort Frederick never saw battle, a unique distinction for a Caribbean bastion. Its cannons, facing inland rather than out to sea, led to its moniker as the 'Backward Facing Fort'.Today, visitors can explore the fort's stone walls, bastions, and ramparts while enjoying panoramic views of St. George's, the Caribbean Sea, and the island's lush interior. The fort consists of four levels, including a place of arms, powder magazine, water cisterns, and a network of tunnels. Fort Frederick also served as the headquarters for the motorized division of the People's Revolutionary Army during the 1979 Grenada Revolution.