Historic, Cultural, Naturally Beautiful
Bermuda offers an array of exquisite beaches of pink sand and turquoise water. The sand contains pink flecks that are the remains of a tiny organism known as red foam. This combined with tiny particles of broken shells and bits of coral create the pink hue of Bermuda’s beautiful beaches.
Bermuda has a number of parks and trails spread across the island with the Railway Trail running from St. George's to Somerset, the thread connecting many of the parks. The Railway Trail is used by locals and visitors for walking, cycling, and various tours. A fabulous guide book for the self-guided tour of the back roads of Bermuda is 'Hiking Bermuda' by Cecile and Stephen Davidson.
No matter where you travel in Bermuda you are never too far from a museum or fort featuring the art, history and culture of Bermuda. The island’s rich history is recorded in museums from St. George’s through the City of Hamilton and on to Somerset and Dockyard, highlighting everything: art, china, maps, paintings, carriages, stamps, maritime and underwater objects that highlight Bermuda’s turbulent seafaring days.
Click here for Bermuda's Public Holidays.
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Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute ~ BUEI
Discover the mysteries of the ocean frontier. BUEI offers many underwater exhibits and interactive educational computer games. See Bermuda's oceans come to life! The Jack Lightbourne Shell collection is one of the world's most spectacular display of ocean mollusks. The Deep & Bioluminescence exhibit takes you on a 12,000 foot dive in a simulated submersible and the Treasure Room & Shipwreck Galley are facinating displays of Teddy Tucker's artifacts from his numerous dives around Bermuda. Underwater Bermuda allows you to try diving yourself! |
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Dolphin Quest Bermuda
Dolphin Quest offers exclusive group programs for small and large groups, from 8 to 200+ guests. Your group can get in the water and meet dolphins up-close or enjoy a high-energy dolphin show. Now available is Lessons from Dolphins, our newest corporate teambuilding program in which dolphins help to demonstrate lessons in strategy, communication, motivation and more. Our programs are extremely popular so make your reservation ahead of the crowds. Call Toll-free 800.248.3316 or visit us at dolphinquest.org to book your reservation for dol-Fun today! |
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The Bermuda Craft Market
At The Bermuda Craft Market in Dockyard. you will find a diverse selection of original Bermuda Crafts ideal for that special present or simply for your own pleasure or collection. Established in 1987 by the Chamber of Commerce and the Department of Tourism as a unique outlet for Arts and Crafts in Bermuda, it now enjoys charity status and functions as the only successful cooperative in Bermuda. In the rustic setting of the old Cooperage Building, crafters display and demonstrate their artistry. There are handcrafted candles, cedar, ceramics, Christmas ornaments, decorative painting, decoupage, dolls, gems, glass jewelry and more. |
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Achilles Bay Beach
Achilles Bay gets its name from its heel-like shape. These calm blue waters match perfectly with its secluded location and tranquil setting. Right next to Fort St Catherine, the location of this beach makes is it easy to explore not only the town of St. George, but all the other sights of the east end of the island. |
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Alexandra Battery and Observation Station (Northern Command)
Located on the eastern coast of St. George's Island, it was the centre of a line of coastal defenses, with Fort St. Catherine and St. David's Battery at either side. Initially built in the 1840s, it was completely rebuilt in the 1870s for five Rifled Muzzle Loaders, then revised for two 6-inch Breech Loaders in the 1890s. The Gibraltar Shield is the only one known in Bermuda and is a very rare feature of such fortifications worldwide. |
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Astwood Cove & Park
More famous for being a site of romantic island weddings than swimming, nevertheless this cove is a delight to experienced swimmers. Its rocky shore line and strong waters are not for amateur swimmers. For observers there’s a magnificent park maintained by Bermuda’s Parks department ideal for picnics and nature walks. It is also a photographers dream and understandably why a popular wedding vista. |
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Barr's Bay Park
Barr's Bay Park is right on the Hamilton Harbour next to the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club along Pitts Bay Road. It is a fabulous place for a picnic lunch and to watch the boats go by. Named for a Bermudian family dating back to 1727. The park is wheelchair accessible and often used for outdoor events in Bermuda, such as the Bermuda Boat Parade and the Bermuda Big Game Classic. |
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Bermuda Railway Trail
The Bermuda Railway Trail is often called the most expensive railway ever built. It didn’t go very far and it didn’t last very long; it failed horribly shortly after its launch in 1931. Today, however, the Bermuda Railway Trail provides a bounty of naturally beautiful riches that locals and visitors find simply priceless. In the 1980’s the government converted the old railway trail into a route of traffic-free roads and narrow pathways that hug shorelines and meander through unspoiled land. Perfect for a romantic stroll, a scenic jog or a peaceful bicycle ride. Be sure to take your camera with you. |
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Blue Hole Park
This 12-acre nature reserve is located just opposite of Grotto Bay Beach Resort with parking and restrooms. There is a well groomed trail featuring wetland habitat, an observation post for bird watching and the fairytale setting of the Blue Grotto. Stand on the wooden platform and lose yourself staring into the deep blue waters that fill this sunken cave. There is also a limestone cavern hidden among the vegetation. |
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Botanical Gardens
No matter where you travel in Bermuda it is hard to miss the profuse array of flowers and trees that line the roadsides. Many trees native to the island produce scented flowers that fill the air with perfume. The Botanical Gardens in Paget is one of Bermuda’s major attractions. The 35-acre landscaped park contains hundreds of clearly identified flowers, shrubs and trees, including a vast collection of subtropical fruit, hibiscus, an aviary, banyan trees and a garden for the blind. A good way to see the expanse of gardens is to take the walking tour, which lasts for 90 minutes and stretches from the Point Finger Road, to Berry Hill and the South Shore Road. "Camden House" is located in the Botanical Gardens and is the official residence of the Premier used only for offical functions, not a living quarters. It is an historic example of typical Bermudian architecture, it was first built in the early 1700's and houses wonderful antiques and art. Free tours are given on Tuesdays and Fridays from 12noon to 2pm, unless official functions are scheduled. Plan to see this beautiful old Bermuda home after the Botanical Gardens tour! The Bermuda Botanical Society operates the Visitor Centre open from 9:30am to 3:30pm (except Holidays) and holds a walking tour of the Gardens on Tuesdays & Fridays 10:30 am year-round, weather permitting, beginning at the Visitors Centre. The Visitor Centre also has a wonderful Craft Shop with lots of unique gift items, and a place to have sandwich, coffee, tea or cool drink. |
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Burnt Point Fort
Located on the small peninsula at the end of Ferry Reach. This structure was built of soft Bermuda stone in the early 17th century (mid- 1600s) to defend the mouth of Ferry Reach Channel. It is open to the public and in close proximity to Martello Tower and Ferry Point Magazine. Access by foot only. |
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Cabinet Building
Initially it was the Colonial Secretariat being completed in 1841 and remodeled in 1938. In 1968 it became the office of the Premier of Bermuda and the government of the day. It houses the Senate of Bermuda,which meets here every Wednesday while the House of Assembly is in session at Sessions House. The Senate Chamber is open to the public 9am - 5pm on weekdays except Tuesdays and public holidays. Interior walls have portraits of past Premiers and Senate presidents. There are many other important paintings you can see. There is a guided tour on Monday's from November to March.Presidents Eisenhower, Kennedy, Nixon and Bush; British Prime Ministers Macmillan, Heath and Thatcher; and Queen Elizabeth, Prince Philip and Prince Charles sat at the circular table. |
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Cathedral of the Most Holy
The structure we know today as 'The Cathedral' is in fact not the original building. The first building was destroyed by an arsonist in 1884. Built of native stone and imported Caen stone, the Cathedral of The Most Holy Trinity was designed by William Hay of Edinburgh in Restoration Gothic-style in the shape of a Roman Cross. Some of the stonework around the windows, doors and arches came from Normandy, France. The Cathedral that stands today was built in 1886 and the finally finished in 1905. Those energetic persons can climb 155 stairs leading to the top of the tower with fabulous panoramic views overlooking the City of Hamilton. |
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Centotaph at the Cabinet Building
The Cenotaph in front of the Cabinet Building is a replica of the famous war memorial Cenotaph at Whitehall, London. The flags presented are of the Royal Navy, Royal Air Force and British Army, memorializing Bermudians were in those British military services, died in World Wars I & II and whose names are on the Cenotaph. Every Remembrance Day, November 11, there is a parade and wreath presentation around the Cenotaph.
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Church Bay in Southampton Parish
After a makeover from 2003’s Hurricane Fabian, this popular snorkeling spot has revived not only for wonderful snorkeling, but other water sports too. Catch glimpses of the colorful array of fish, coral reef and sandy beach to experience the full tranquil experience of Church Bay. You can rent snorkeling equipment from May 1 - October 30 from Church Bay Beach Rentals. |
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Clearwater Beach & Park
Clearwater Beach and Park off of St. David’s Island is actually two man-made beaches created when the airport land was reclaimed around 1946 as a US military base and joined to smaller islands. It has been a public recreation area since 1996 with playground, beaches, hardscape for cycling, rollerblading and other activities. Many Bermudians enjoy this area, as it is a great location for a church picnic, company party or music festivals. There is ample parking and during the summer months a lifeguard is on duty. Stretches of turtle grass create dark patches offshore and at the same time provide a feeding station for turtles and fish. Overhead, one may observe arriving and departing aircraft from the adjacent Bermuda International Airport which, by the way does nothing to disturb the tranquility of the area. |
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Coney Island Lime Kiln
Located on the southeastern coast of Coney Island, the kiln was constructed by the British military to supply lime to the many fortifications erected at the eastern end of Bermdua in the 19th Century, and probably built in the 1820s. Some off-road parking available. |
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Corporation of Hamilton ~ City Hall
It wasn't until 1815 that it became the governmental as well as business captial of the island. The City of Hamilton generates more than $3 billion a year towards the Bermudian gross domestic product. It is the biggest captive insurance centre in the world as well as competing in reinsurance with New York and London. There are Fortune 500 companies, the Taipans of Hong Kong, the major accountants, some of the best legal talent anywhere and all types of insurance. The city is fully wired underground, including a fibre-optic circuit with reliable power. The Corporation of Hamilton manages the city under the elected Mayor and council members. They are responsible for the streets, the docks, sewerage, garbage, parking, open spaces and more on an annual budget of approximately $20 million. Hamilton is a a very clean city with several parks making them a favourite lunchtime spot - Par-La-Ville Park, Victoria Park and Barr's Park. |
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Devonshire Redoubt
Located on the northern side of Castle Island and constructed in 1621 to defend the entrance and anchorage of Castle Harbour and replace Moore's Fort, which burned to the ground in 1619. It has a central tower, a rampart for cannon and serveral magazines, as well as a watercatch. Accessible by boat to Castle Island National Park. |
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Dockyard
Built by Royal decree to defend British superiority on the seas, the Royal Naval Dockyard is today a resplendent place of discovery. Within the walls of this nineteenth century fortress where troops once marched, there are now lawns, flower lined lanes, fine dining and a quaint Clocktower shopping mall. Where once all was war readiness, now exists an invitation to adventure. Swim with dolphins, snorkel at the Snorkel Park, or explore the historic Maritime Museum. By daylight or moonlight, there is so much to discover. Take the entire family on an outing to the West End...Discover the Dockyard...Bermuda’s Royal Outing! (441) 234-1709 |
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Dockyard: The Keep
Located at the northern end of Dockyard and constructed in 1820s, there are eight buildings - the Commissioner's House, the cannon ramparts, six magazines and seven bastions. The Keep and Dockyard defenses were built to hold the naval base and to give some coverage to Royal Navy ships at anchor in Grassy Bay. The Keep is now the home of the Bermuda Maritime Museum. Good parking in Dockyard. |
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Dockyard: The Land Front
What is now the road entrance to Dockyard is the southern boundary of Dockyard constructed in the 1820s and served to protect against attack by a land force. There are a number of buildings - the Right Advance, the Ramparts and magazines at Casemate Barracks. This area was used as a prison for 20 years, know as "Casemates". No public access. |
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Dockyard: The Western Rampart and Bastions H & I
It is the western boundary of the Dockyard, the center portion of the three-sided defense work, constructed in the 1820s to defend the seaward approaches from the west. The Western Rampart extends from the Casemate Barracks to the Keep, with extentions of Bastions, "H" & "I".Two bastions gaurded the flanks of the rampart. It served as the only road to the upper level of the Keep until 1920's, when the road entered at Casemates Barracks. No public access. |
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Ferry Island Fort & the Ferry
Located on the summit of the small Ferry Island at Ferry Reach Park, appropriately named because the ferry shuttled between St. George's and the Bermuda islands and was situated on the southern side of this small island and connected by a bridge to St. George's island. No buildings have survived, only a ferry dock which is badly damaged by the sea and years of neglect. The fort thought to be built in early the 19th Century, was intended to guard the passage known as Ferry Reach protecting the ferry landings on both sides of the channel. A footbridge links the island from Ferry Point. |
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Ferry Point Magazine
Located on the northern side of Ferry Reach Park, a few hundred feet from Martello Tower. The Magazine along with its courtyard wall was built of soft Bermuda stone in the 1820s and used for storing gunpowder for the forts at Ferry Point. It is the only structure built from soft Bermuda stone that has survived. Accessible by foot only. |
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Fort Albert
Located on a hill overlooking the east coast of St. George's Island, just east of Fort Victoria. Fort Albert was built in the 1840s to defend the entrance to the Narrows Channel, Bermuda's only ship channel to the dockyard. The fort is on the old Club Med site. Four 10-inch RML guns were here and moved to Fort St. Catherine in the 1960s. No public access. |
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Fort Cunningham
Located on the southern half of Paget Island, it is the only fort with straight wrought iron frontages for seven gunports. It was built to defend the entrance to the Narrows Channel in the 1820s, then rebuilt in the 1870s for nine Rifled Muzzle Loader cannons. In the 1890s it was rearmed with two Rifled Breech Loaders. Accessible by boat only. |
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Fort George
Located on the hightest hill of St. George's Island providing defence for the town and harbour. It was also the site of a major signalling station since 1612. It was rebuilt and rearmed a number of times, the last being in the 1870s. Two of the Rifled Muzzle Loader guns of the period survive in place. It is currently used as a station for Harbour Radio. Limited access and parking. |
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Fort Hamilton
Located on the eastern side of the City of Hamilton, this fort was built in the 1870s to protect Hamilton Harbour. It has panoramic views, a peaceful place with well tended lawns, a garden moat, dungeons, and never used 18 tonne artillery pieces relocated here from Fort Langton. A Guard House, Tea Room, Caretaker's cottage and toilets exist. Good parking and access. |
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Fort Paget
Located on the southeastern tip of St. George's Island. This was Bermuda's first fort, built in 1612 to defend the original channel in St. George's Harbour. Only the archaeological site exists with features cut into bedrock, such as Musketry trenches. Accessible by boat only. |
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Fort Popple
Located on the rocky north coast of St. David's Island and built in the 1730s. Paget, Smith and Popple Forts were built to protect the ship channel into St. George's Harbour. This fort was carved from bedrock and overlooks the southeastern coast. The views are spectacular! A quarry is below at waters edge probably for the hard 'wharfblock'. Accessible by foot only, with parking at Great Head Park or St. David's Cricket Field. |
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Fort Scaur
Located towards the southern end of Somerset Island, this fort was constructed in 1870s to defend the crossing at Somerset Bridge and protect the landward part of the Dockyard defenses. It was used until 1920s. It has a small Keep area and is part of Scaur Hill Park. The entire park and fort was recently renovated, reopening in January 2010. Car and cycle parking is available. |
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Fort St. Catherine
This impressive fort is located on an equally impressive site overlooking the east end of the island. The fort was built in 1614, over the beach where Bermuda's first settlers came ashore. Audio/visual displays depict the island's history. There is a replica of the Crown Jewels guarded by a wax figure of a Beefeater, as well as a gun and weapon collection, and cannons pointing toward the enemy at sea. A superb beach is adjacent to the fort with a food concession. Entrance fee; open daily. Phone: 441.297.1920 |
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Fort William (Western Redoubt)
Located on the northern edge of St. George's, opposite the Unfinished Church. This fort was built to defend the town of St. George's and to give some cover to its harbour. In the 1870s is was converted into a gunpowder magazine by roofing over the ditch and the central barracks, or Keep, making it unique in Bermuda and the countries of the old British Empire. Good parking to the west of the Redoubt. |
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Gates Fort (Town Cut Battery)
This fort is located at the southeast corner of St. George's Island and the northside of the channel into St. George's Harbour. The gate house, block house and gun rampart were built in the late 1700s and defended a narrow channel for small boats between Higgs and St. George's Island. The waterway was widened in the early 1920s and is one of the first attractions seen from cruise ships entering St. George's. The town crier is usually there to greet the guests. Good access from main road; parking limited. |
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Gibb's Hill Lighthouse
The cast iron lighthouse was built in 1846 to warn passing ships of Bermuda's treacherous reefs which have claimed more than 300 shipwrecks to date. The light has been shining since May 1, 1846 and can be seen 40 miles away in good weather. The balcony, which you can climb 185 steps to, is 385ft above sea level and affords a view of the entire island with wonderful views of the ocean and Hamilton Harbour for fabulous photo opportunities. The delightful LIGHTHOUSE GRILL (Open daily for lunch 11am-3pm and dinner 6pm-10pm except Wednesdays, 10pm -1am weekdays & Sundays, 10pm-3am Fridays & saturdays) is located at the base offering an extensive lunch and dinner menu with Take-out too! A gift shop is located at the base of this attraction and the grounds offer a breathtaking view. Located on Lighthouse Road, Southampton next to Fairmont Southampton Hotel. |
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Government House
The Governor, who is appointed by Her Majesty the Queen, has his own Governor’s Council (the Premier is a member), in which matters relating to his portfolio are discussed. He is responsible for the conduct of Defence, Internal Security (he controls the Police and the Bermuda Regiment operationally) and Foreign Affairs. He is also responsible for the appointment of judges, magistrates and court officials. The Governor live at Government House for the duration of their term of office.
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Horseshoe Bay Beach & Park in Southampton Parish
Due to its captivating beauty, Horseshoe Bay Beach is probably the most photographed beaches in Bermuda. From small children, to senior citizens, its wide appeal makes Horseshoe Bay a must see when visiting Bermuda. With an adjacent ‘kiddy beach’, and its low tide, Horseshoe Beach is definitely a spot for the entire family. Use your discretion when the waters look rough, or ask a lifeguard who is on call. The expansive horseshoe-shaped beach is bordered by cliffs and large reefs where snorkellers can explore the large variety of fish and sea life. Not a fan of water activities? Go for a jog, play volleyball or just kick back on the sand. When hunger strikes you, do not fret; there is a concession stand fully stocked with a variety goodies. |
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House of Parliment
Bermuda’s Government is modelled on that of the British Government. There are two houses of Parliament, the House of Assembly, whose members are elected and paid from 36 constituencies; and the upper house, the Senate, whose 11 members are appointed, 5 from the ruling party, 3 from the opposition and 3 independents chosen by the Governor. The Premier is chosen from the majority party, and appoints members of a Cabinet, which normally numbers about a dozen men and women. Cabinet Ministers are each responsible for the operation of Ministries and Departments of the public service.
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Jobson's Cove in Warwick Parish
Right next to Warwick Long Bay is a beautiful, sheltered, picture perfect beach called Jobson’s Cove. Perfect for a picnic, to relax, and to explore in or out of water. Definitely a special spot to Bermuda and a photographic jewel. |
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John Smith's Bay in Hamilton Parish
This beach appeals to both young and old. Although popular, it is rarely over crowded, making it a great spot to relax. Occasionally colorful parrot fish can be seen along the reef, enhancing the overall tranquility of this beach. Not an experiences swimmer? Be sure to watch for the warning signs of the periodic rip tides. Experienced Lifeguards are always on call during the summer months, ensuring that your visit to the beach is both a safe and enjoyable one. On holidays in the summer months, watch the beach transform from a quiet place |
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King's Castle
Located on the eastern point of Castle Island and constructed in 1612 to defend the entrance of the channel into Castle Harbour, the second principal anchorage in the first two centuries of Bermuda. It is unique because it was probably the first building made of stone in Bermuda and is the oldest standing masonry fort of English origins in the Americas. Accessible by boat only. |
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Landward Fort
Located at the southern tip of Castle Island and constructed in the 1650s, this fort defended the boat channel between Castle Island and the main island of Bermuda, at the end of Tucker's Town area. Accessible by boat only. |
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Martello Tower
Located on a hill at the end of the Ferry Reach peninsula. There is a Tower built in the early 1820s of Bermuda limestone set within a dry moat. The purpose was to defend the Ferry Reach Channel and thus prevent an enemy force from attacking St. George's Island from the main island of Bermuda. This site is open to the public and part of the Bermuda Railway Trail access. Accessible by foot. |
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Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art
The Foundation was started in 1987 by its Director Tom Butterfield, who recognized that a unique body of artwork could be compiled to form a collection that would one day gain worldwide recognition. The new Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art is now open. Today, over one thousand pieces make up the collection (currently valued at over $7 million), including three works by Winslow Homer, as well as pieces by Georgia O’Keeffe, Charles Demuth, Marsden Hartley, Albert Gleizes and Ogden Pleissner. Other artists in the collection affirm the influence Bermuda’s beauty has had on the worldwide art scene. Open Monday through Saturday, 10am to 4pm. |
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Palm Grove Garden In Devonshire
This unique private garden has a spectucular Bermuda-shaped reflecting pool, along with exotic parrots, topical plants and a beautiful view of the ocean on the south shore. It is located east of Ariel Sands in Devonshire and open to the public Monday - Thursday from 9am - 5pm. |
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Par-La-Ville Park
This centrally located park is a favorite of locals during lunch to escape to nature if only for an hour! There are two entrances to the park – Par-La-Ville Road where the oldest Moongate stands, or on Queen Street next to Perot’s Post Office of the first postmaster in Bermuda. His house is now the Bermuda public library and the Bermuda Historical Society Museum. On February 2, 2007 “Jete”, a life-size bronze of international ballet star David Wall by Italian sculptor Enzo Plazzotta, was installed in Par-La-Ville Park. Part of the recent bequest to the Bermuda National Gallery by John Hinson Young II and Nelga Young, it depicts the dancer David Wall, former Principal dancer with the Royal Ballet and now Principal Repetiteur with English National Ballet, in a leap known as a jeté. It is the second from the Young Collection to be placed in the park, following the installation of American sculptor Berthold Schiwetz’s bronze Preying Mantis Fountain last year. Together they form the basis of Bermuda’s first Sculpture Park, a joint project between the Bermuda National Gallery (BNG) and the Corporation of Hamilton that will eventually form part of a city-wide Public Sculpture Trail. |
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Peniston's Redoubt
Located on the eastern coast of Paget Island, this fort was built in 1613 and was rediscovered in 2002 during archaelogical work. The Redoubt defended the small boat channel between Paget and Higgs Islands and perhaps between Higgs and St. George's Islands. Accessible by boat only. |
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Shelly Bay Beach in Hamilton Parish
This endless stretch of shallow waters probably makes Shelly Bay the number one rated kid’s beach in Bermuda. Youngsters can wade in the waters, while parents watch from the sand. Find public facilities, equipment rentals and an extensive playground surrounding the beach, perfect for a day of fun. Adjacent to the beach is “Yardie Kitchen” specializing in both local and Caribbean cuisine. |
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Smith's Fort
Located on northern side of Governor's Island, a very small island at the mouth of St. George's Channel, the original entrance to St. George's Harbour. It is opposite Fort Paget, constructed a year later in 1613. It was heavily altered in the 1790s, with a new fort built on top. Archaeological Research was cone in the 1990s with further study needed. No public access. |
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Southampton Fort
Located on the western tip of Southampton Island and constructed in 1612, this fort was altered and used until the 1820s. It was built to to defend the entrance of the channel into Castle Harbour along with King's Castle. It was altered in the 1790s and the remains are visible today. Accessible by boat, but difficult in most weather conditions. |
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St. David's Base End Station
Located just east of St. David's Lighthouse, it was one of 13 erected as part of the US ARmy fire control systems during WWII. Limited parking at St. David's Lighthouse. |
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St. David's Battery
Located on the eatern coast of St. David's Island. The Battery was constructed in 1910 and defended the entrance to the Narrows Channel with new guns emplaced at Fort Cunningham and Alexandra Battery. There are two 9.2-inch BL guns and two 6-inch BL guns in place. Good accessibility with parking. |
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St. David's Lighthouse
This famous 100 year old Lighthouse is a landmark on Bermuda's east end. Honored as the 2004 Winner’s Choice by Harbour Lights Lighthouses, it is a sturdy stone structure, 55-feet high to lantern, which shows a fixed white light of the second order, of about 30,000 candlepower, at a total height of 208-feet above sea level. The light has been warning ships since November 3, 1879 and has been subject to changes and improvements over the years. In place of the original kerosene burners of the ordinary oil wick type, it has a hood petroleum vapor burner, a more modern type, installed in June 1922. The view from the balcony is superb in its rugged beauty looking eastward, and its pleasing panorama of land and water looking westward. Located on St. David's Island, St. David’s. It too offers panoramic views, which can also be appreciated from the top of the hill even if the lighthouse is closed. |
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St. George's Foundation
The mission of The St. George's Foundation is to invest in the Town's future by providing cultural, educational and recreational experiences that will benefit both residents and visitors now and for generations to come. We will work to support and revitalise the local economy by creating new opportunities for business, and to develop Historic St. George's as a world tourism destination by creating a first-class Heritage Centre with a full range of related activities, from walking tours and educational programmes to lively historical reenactments and open-air concerts in the Square. |
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St. Peter's Church & Slave Graveyard ~ St. George's
St. Peter’s Church is believed to be the oldest continually used Anglican church in the Western hemisphere. The original church was built from Bermuda cedar with a palmetto-thatch roof in 1612. Most of the present structure dates from 1713 but some features, such as the steeple, were later additions. The altar is part of the original structure built in 1615 and is the oldest example of Bermudian woodwork existing today. The church’s font is over 500 years old and was brought to Bermuda by the first settlers. It is part of the World Heritage Site. Meandering through the St. Peter’s Church graveyard offers a fascinating glimpse of life and death in the 16th through 18th centuries. Take a look for yourself at this nod to our history. Fearing rebellion, slave owners kept black and white burial grounds segregated. Epitaphs written upon St. Peter's tombstones reveal ancient occupations, cherished family members, abbreviated histories and a chronicle of illnesses. |
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The Globe Hotel
This grand two-story house was built by Governor Samuel Day in 1699 to serve as Government House. When his troubled administration came to an end in 1701 Day refused to surrender the house to the new Governor, Benjamin Bennett. Day’s protest was short-lived as he was arrested for debt and died in prison. In 1722 a new Government House was built and the property was acquired by the Tucker family who lived there until the 1860s. During the American Civil War Major Norman S. Walker Confederate Political Agent, used the upper floor as his headquarters. After the Civil War the house was used as a hotel. Now the property is owned by the Bermuda National Trust to interpret the role of the Confederacy in Bermuda. The museum is open every Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Admission: Adults $5, Children $2 (6-18 years) |
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Tobacco Bay in St. George's
If you are looking for a refreshing swim or a snorkeling adventure, Tobacco Bay beach is the place to visit. Our facilities include a restaurant and deck, beer and wine bar and a gift shop. We also rent snorkeling gear for kids and adults, umbrellas and loungers to make your day comfortable and fun. Come and join us! We are the family fun place in St. George’s, open 7 days a week. Tel: 441-297-2756 |
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Tucker House Museum
When Confederate soldiers began to draft Free Blacks to work on Charleston’s fortifications, Joseph Hayne Rainey and his wife Susan escaped to Bermuda aboard a blockade runner. The Raineys quickly embraced Bermudian life, Joseph becoming a member of Alexandra Lodge 1026 of the Grand Order of Odd Fellows, and later the first Black man in the House of Representatives. At Tucker House, you will find the Rainey memorial room, where you can view copies of speeches he made during his term in the House of Representatives, and other memorabilia. |
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Turtle Hill Battery
Located and maintained by the Fairmont Southampton Hotel, there is a Panama Mount only which was erected by the US Army in 1942 when the American Forces assumed the coastal defense of the Island. Good parking at hotel. |
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Victoria Park
Situated behind the City Hall & Arts Centre, the most notable feature of this small city centre park is its band stand. Erected in the late 19th century to commemorate the golden jubilee of Queen Victoria, it’s now the setting for free Sunday evening summer concerts, Concerts in the Park, sponsored by the Bank of Butterfield and the Corporation of Hamilton from 6 – 9pm. Each themed concert features around five local and international artists. Bring a picnic of food and wine to enjoy during the performance. There are public restrooms. |
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Warwick Long Bay
This magnificent stretch of beach lives up to its name as it is close to half a mile of Bermuda’s famous pink sand and dunes. It’s a favorite location for early morning swimmers, joggers and the occasional horseback riders. The steep cliffs and shrubbery that cover the hills offer some privacy to sun bathers, and a nearby playground is a must for children as a substitute for the heavy surf. Bay Grape and Cedar trees make up the main vegetation a haven for bird life, so it is a wonderful bird watching area. Snorkel equipment is available to rent from Warwick Long Bay Beach Rentals from May 1 - October 30. |
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Warwick Pond
Warwick Pond borders on the Warwick portion of the Railway Trail and is the second largest freshwater nature reserve, a 9-acre haven for resident and migratory waterfowl. There are a number of endemic Bermuda cedars and lots of Allspice trees, named for the pungent scent of the leaf. The Bermuda National Trust recently installed an interpretive sign nature trail around the pond. Open dawn to dusk. |
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Waterville - Home of the Bermuda National Trust
Located at the Foot of the Lane on Hamilton Harbour, Waterville was built in 1725 by the Trimingham family and the site of the first Trimingham’s store in 1842. It is now the headquarters of the Bermuda National Trust and is open to the public at no charge 9 to 5 each weekday. Properties to see include Globe Hotel, Tucker House, Verdmont and a collection of nature reserves, gardens and cemeteries. Any Bermuda National Trust museum can be opened for groups by special appointment. Arrangements can be made with Andrew at <andrew@bnt.bm>.
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West Whale Bay in Southampton Parish
Come the months of March and April schools of Humpback whales can be seen as they migrate through the beautiful azure waters off the South Shore, hence why the name was given to this beach. It’s always been a favorite spot for family picnics, on the beach or on a picnic table. The on-site toilet facilities are convenient if you intend to spend the day. When the tide is low, the water is sufficiently shallow for bathers to float out and enjoy the coral reefs. |
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Whale Bay Fort and Battery
The two forts are located on the southern coast of Southampton Parish, overlooking Whale Bay. There are no buildings standing. The Battery contains store, barracks and magazine rooms. The forts were built in the mid 1700s to defend the entrance to Hog Fish Channel. Good parking at Whale Bay beach nearby, then by foot. |