Fort Matthew, Westerhall Travel Guide

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Explore Fort Matthew in Grenada: A historic fort with panoramic views, tunnels, and a unique glimpse into the island's colonial past.

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

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 the best lighting for photography.
Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the fort involves some walking on uneven terrain.
Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities available at the fort.

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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 Carenage bus terminal in St. George's, take a minibus heading towards Grand Anse or St. Paul's. Inform the driver that you want to get off at the stop for Fort Matthew. After disembarking, walk a short distance uphill following the signs for Fort Matthew. Bus fare ranges from EC$2.50 to EC$6.50.
Taxi

Hire a taxi from any location in St. George's. Simply let the driver know you want to go to Fort Matthew. The drive should take about 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. The taxi fare will likely be around EC$25.
Walking

From the center of St. George's, walk along the Carenage towards the roundabout. Continue straight until you reach the junction with the main road and turn left onto the main road. Look for signs indicating Fort Matthew and follow them uphill to reach the fort. The walk is approximately 20 minutes.

Discover more about Fort Matthew

Perched on Richmond Hill, adjacent to Fort Frederick, Fort Matthew is a sprawling complex with a rich and varied past. Built by the French after they regained control of Grenada in 1779, the fort was named after then-Governor Edward Matthew. Its strategic location made it a key site in the ongoing struggle between the French and English for control of the island.Over the years, Fort Matthew has served multiple purposes. Besides its military function, it was also used as a mental institution starting around 1880, serving the entire Windward Islands. The fort's 18th-century bathrooms, army kitchens, and cell blocks remain largely intact, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the past. Although accidentally bombed by U.S. forces during the 1983 invasion of Grenada, the fort's historical character is still evident.Today, visitors can explore the fort's tunnel network and enjoy stunning views of St. George's, including the Melville Street Cruise Port, St. George's University, and the Carenage. Guided tours are available, providing deeper insights into the fort's history and significance. The site is open to the public and offers a serene environment surrounded by tropical greenery.