Discover Antigua Barbuda

In the 1700s, Antigua’s coastline was ringed with British forts. Although they’re in ruins today, the views from these former military strongholds are among the most panoramic in the Caribbean.

Fort Barrington is situated on Goat Hill, the westernmost entry point into St John’s Harbour. It was built on the strategic hilltop to control entry into both St John’s Harbour and neighbouring Deep Bay. As such it was an important part of the triad of forts built to protect the rapidly growing trading town of St John’s.

Fort James sits at the entrance to St John’s harbour and is one of the oldest forts in Antigua. Its origins date back as far as 1706. Named after King James II, it was built was to defend the port of St John’s and was part of a network of forts that were built on the headlands and strategic coastal locations to defend the island from attack from the French. In the 18^th century, the Fort was armed with 36 guns and had barracks that accommodated 75 men.

The Fort is located on a headland to the west of St John’s overlooking the Caribbean Sea. A powder magazine, several cannons, and the foundation of the fort’s wall can still be seen today. The main attraction today is the excellent view of the surrounding areas.

Fort Berkeley is the oldest fortification in English Harbour, dating to 1704 and was constructed by the colonial government and manned by gunners and matrosses hired by the government—not soldiers.

As English Harbour became more important with the expansion of the Dockyard in the 1740s, more fortifications were constructed to protect the naval installation. This included a dramatic expansion of Fort Berkeley to the size and scope it is today.

Fort Berkeley was officially handed over to the Crown in 1784 after the end of the American Revolution, and the British military took the station over. The military added the gunpowder magazine in 1807.

Today the fortification is accessible along a short nature trail. Visitors often go to the fortification to look back at English Harbour, great vessels as they arrive, and watch Antigua’s many world-class sailing regattas.

For the best view of the entirety of Nelson’s Dockyard National Park, the historic Dow’s Hill fortifications are unparalleled. Situated high above English Harbour, the panoramic view takes in the dramatic natural beauty of the Park. Plan a short stop with one of our visitor services guides, or host your own intimate event, Dow’s Hill is the place to be.