Scaur Hill Fort and Park stands on a hilltop on Somerset Road in Sandys Parish, about fifteen minutes' travel from the Royal Naval Dockyard, and it is the best place on the island to explore a fort without a crowd. The fort was built in the late 1860s, when Britain feared retaliation from the United States after the end of the American Civil War, because Bermuda had supported the Confederacy. Its job was to guard the approaches to the Dockyard, and the design reflects that: a large dry moat backed by tall ramparts that once held two 64-pound cannons, with passages and tunnels to explore. From the ramparts there are panoramic views across the Great Sound and toward the Dockyard, and the surrounding park covers twenty-two acres, with many paths and picnic areas. The Bermuda Railway Trail crosses the eastern side of the park, so walkers and cyclists can combine the fort with a stretch of the old railway route. The tourism board profile lists the fort as free, with daytime opening hours, and it is a peaceful alternative to busier sights, particularly in the late afternoon when the light turns warm over the sound.
Exploring the fort
Start at the upper level, where the ramparts give you the view, then walk down into the dry moat, which is deep and wide, with high stone walls that show how seriously the builders took the threat. The tunnels and passages are short and atmospheric, so a small torch or phone light helps. The place is quiet enough that you can imagine the garrison at work. Allow an hour for the fort itself and another hour for the park paths, or longer if you picnic.
The park and the views
The grounds are laid out with lawns, trees and benches, and the views change as you walk, from the open water of the Great Sound to the cranes and rooftops of the Dockyard on the far shore. The park is popular with locals for picnics and sunset watching, and it is a good place for children to run around while adults take photographs.
Bring water, a hat and sun protection, and wear shoes with grip, because the moat steps and the rampart paths can be uneven and slippery after rain. The tourism profile gives daytime hours, and the fort is not a place to be after dark, so plan to leave before it closes.
Getting there and fitting it in
The fort is on the west end, so it fits naturally into a Dockyard day. Take the bus along Somerset Road or a taxi from the Dockyard, or cycle the Railway Trail, which passes through the park. It pairs well with the National Museum of Bermuda, a boat trip from the Dockyard and a late lunch in Somerset Village. History enthusiasts will enjoy comparing it with the forts of St.
George's on the east end, and anyone who likes quiet viewpoints will appreciate the outlook. It costs nothing to visit, which makes it a good use of an hour when the weather is fine and boats are not running. Out of season the park is especially peaceful, with cooler air for the walk up to the ramparts and few other visitors, and it is a natural place to finish a west end day before heading back to your hotel.
What to expect
The experience
A free, self-guided visit to a Victorian fort with a dry moat, tunnels and ramparts, set in twenty-two acres of parkland with views over the Great Sound.
Best time
Late afternoon on a clear day, for the light and the sunset views.
How long
About an hour for the fort; two hours with the park paths and a picnic.
Tips
Open daytime hours only. Wear shoes with grip, bring water and a light for the tunnels, and take care on wet steps.
Quick picks
- Best for
- History fans, photographers and anyone who wants a quiet viewpoint on the west end.
- Families
- Children enjoy the moat and tunnels and the open lawns, but the ramparts have drops, so supervise closely.
- Couples
- Bring a picnic and watch the sun go down over the Great Sound.
- Pair with
- The Royal Naval Dockyard and National Museum, a boat trip and Somerset Village.
- Time needed
- Two hours.
Good questions
Is Scaur Hill Fort free?+
Yes. The tourism profile lists the fort and park as free to enter.
Why was the fort built?+
In the late 1860s Britain feared retaliation from the United States after the American Civil War, because Bermuda had supported the Confederacy, so the fort was built to protect the approaches to the Dockyard.
What are the opening hours?+
The tourism profile gives daytime hours, roughly mid-morning to late afternoon. Check before you go and plan to leave before it closes.
What can I see?+
A deep dry moat, tall ramparts that once held two 64-pound cannons, tunnels, and panoramic views of the Great Sound and the Dockyard.
How do I get there from the Dockyard?+
Take the bus or a taxi along Somerset Road, or cycle the Railway Trail, which crosses the eastern side of the park.
