Bermuda, often thought to be in the Caribbean because of its tropical climate and lovely pink sand, is actually in the Atlantic Ocean. With an old fashioned charm, English heritage and lovely scenery there is plenty to do on this small 21 mile island. The beaches are fabulous, but there is so much else to Bermuda.
St George’s
The former capital St George’s is one of the earliest English settlements in the New World where British sailors were shipwrecked in 1609 while travelling to Jamestown, Virginia. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site I find twisting alleyways leading to quaint shops and cottages and many Anglican chapels including the lovely St Peter’s Church and Their Majesties Chappell. The magnificent Gothic Unfinished Church was meant to replace St Peter’s in 1970 but the project was abandoned. Now the mysterious building, open to the elements and nature, is a popular wedding spot.
Natural attractions nearby include the limestone formations of Tobacco Bay Beach and the Crystal caves. St Catherine’s Fort dates from the 19th century although there has been a fortification here since 1600. There is a museum there with artefacts of some of the British military operations here.
Naval Dockyard
After losing the American War of Independence in 1783, Britain sought a port in the mid-Atlantic from where to face off America and access its interests in the Caribbean. Bermuda’s position made it an easy choice and in 1809 enslaved people laid the first stones of the Royal Naval Dockyard which played an important strategic role from 1812 until the end of WWII. Once known as the Gibraltar of the West the Dockyard has been restored and I found a combination of shops, restaurants, an Arts Centre and workshops. The National Museum has cannons, artefacts and some watercraft in the former Keep Fort.
British Airways flies from London Gatwick to Bermuda from £670 return including taxes/fees/carrier charges. ba.com/Bermuda or call 0344 493 0120.
