Bermuda Forts & Military History
Bermuda has an extraordinary concentration of historic fortifications, with more than 90 forts, batteries and defensive sites scattered across the islands. From the early 1600s, Bermuda’s strategic position in the Atlantic made defence a priority, first against potential European attack and later as an important British naval and military base. Fortifications were continually expanded and modernized as military technology changed. Today, Bermuda’s forts provide a fascinating record of more than three centuries of British colonial and military history, ranging from small coastal batteries to massive Victorian fortifications.
Some of the best forts to visit in Bermuda are Fort St. Catherine in St. George’s, Fort Hamilton overlooking the City of Hamilton and Fort Scaur in the West End. Fort St. Catherine is the standout choice for military history, with extensive ramparts, tunnels, artillery and museum exhibits. Fort Hamilton combines Victorian fortifications with views over Hamilton Harbour, while Fort Scaur offers impressive defensive works and panoramic views across the Great Sound. In St. George’s, smaller sites such as Gates Fort and Alexandra Battery also provide excellent examples of Bermuda’s coastal defences.
