Fort Matthew, Saint John Travel Guide

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Explore Fort Matthew in St. George's: A historic landmark offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Grenada's colonial past.

Fort Matthew, constructed in the late 18th century, stands as a testament to Grenada's colonial past and military significance. Over the years, it served as a battleground, a military stronghold, and even a mental institution. Today, visitors can explore its well-preserved structures and enjoy panoramic views of St. George's harbor and the surrounding landscape.

A brief summary to Fort Matthew

3726+4Q7, St George's, 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

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 some areas may require walking on uneven surfaces.
Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities at the fort.
Consider joining a guided tour for in-depth historical insights.

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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 Melville Street Bus Terminal in St. George's, take a bus heading towards Morne Jaloux. Inform the driver that you wish to get off near Fort Matthew. The bus fare is approximately EC$2.50. After disembarking, walk uphill for a short distance, following the signs to Fort Matthew.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available in St. George's. A taxi from the cruise port or city center to Fort Matthew will cost approximately EC$32-40 (US$12-15). The journey takes about 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
Walking

From the center of St. George's, near the Carenage, head east. Follow the road as it ascends towards Richmond Hill. The walk is uphill and takes approximately 30-40 minutes. Look for signs indicating the direction of Fort Matthew. Be prepared for a moderately strenuous walk.

Discover more about Fort Matthew

Perched strategically on Richmond Hill, Fort Matthew offers a captivating glimpse into Grenada's rich and often turbulent history. Built by the French from 1784 to 1790, the fort was named after then-Governor Edward Matthew. Its 1500-yard expanse is adjacent to the smaller, older Fort Frederick. Throughout its history, Fort Matthew has played diverse roles, from a crucial battleground in the Anglo-French struggle for control of Grenada to, more surprisingly, a mental institution.Visitors can explore the fort's well-preserved 18th-century architecture, including army kitchens, blocks of cells, and even bathrooms. A network of intact tunnels runs beneath the fort, offering a sense of wonder and adventure. The fort's strategic location provides breathtaking views of St. George's, including the Melville Street Cruise Port, St. George's University, and the Carenage. Informative plaques and guided tours are available to provide deeper insights into the fort's history and its impact on Grenada's development.While the fort was accidentally bombed by U.S. forces during the 1983 invasion of Grenada, much of its structure remains intact. Today, Fort Matthew stands as a historical landmark, offering visitors a unique opportunity to connect with Grenada's heritage and enjoy stunning panoramic vistas.