History of Antigua: Shirley Heights and Lord Nelsons Dockyard

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Tour Times: 8:30 AM, 9:00 AM, 9:30 AM, 10:00 AM

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Hassle-free

Cancellation

4 hours (approx.)

Private Tour

Light

Sightseeing/City Tour Archaeological/Cultural

Overview

Your private tour departs from Redcliffe Quay, the historic shopping district located on the south side of St. Johns. Once used as the slave-trading area for the town, it now consists of restored warehouses and old buildings painted in a rainbow of colors. Although the area has been redone to attract shoppers--there are all manner of shops, from novelty stores selling local wares to boutiques carrying the trendiest clothing--it still retains a sense of history.

Continuing on, well visit Block House at Shirley Heights, Antigua's famous military complex. Shirley Heights is divided into three sections: Block House, the easternmost part of the military complex that was designed as a place of last refuge; The Ridge and Artillery Quarters (part of which were used, after the army left, as an insane asylum); and The Lookout, which provides the best view in Antigua. Today, the entire complex is mainly in ruin, except The Lookout, which has been turned into a restaurant. Regardless, this is still a great place to visit, both for the history and for the great views of the island.

Now, were on to Nelsons Dockyard, named after the victor of the battle of Trafalgar, Admiral Lord Nelson. Nelson, who was based at English Harbor from 1784 to 1787, was senior captain at only 27 years of age and became the temporary commander-in-chief of the Leeward Islands for a short time. Enjoy a 30-minute guided tour here and visit the many restored buildings, which now house modern facilities, yet still reflect the naval heritage of English Harbor.

The history still lives here and is easily visualize with the help of your guide. You can see where the English beat the French because Napoleons Navy could not get into the harbor. You can still see where the sails were repaired. Very cool! This is a place full of history and, although private yachts now replace naval vessels in the harbor, it remains a favorite port for those making the long Atlantic crossing.

What's Included

Private round trip transportation
Lots of great info on Antiguan culture and history
See the harbor that Napoleons army could not enter
View the area where ancient sails were repaired
Many picturesque sites
Entrance to Nelsons Dockyard
Entrance to Shirley Heights

Considerations

Check in for your tour is 10-15 minutes prior to your tour time.
Bring cash and/or credit card for any additional purchases on the day
Food and Beverages
Gratuities/Tips are not included in your tour, if you would like to leave a tip, please bring cash.

Special Instructions

We recommend you bring cash/credit card as you will have the option to purchase food and beverages at Nelsons Dockyard.
Most shops are closed on Sundays.
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, sunhat, and water bottle.
Wear comfortable light clothing and walking shoes.

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup and Dropoff at the Cruise Port Included.

Tour Times: 8:30 AM, 9:00 AM, 9:30 AM, 10:00 AM

Hassle-free

Cancellation

4 hours (approx.)

Private Tour

Light

History of Antigua: Shirley Heights and Lord Nelsons Dockyard

Overview

What's Included

Considerations

Special Instructions

Meeting and Pickup

Book Now

Price Info

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