Opening Times & Access (Both Forts)
The Grounds: Open daily from sunrise to sunset.
Interior Museums: Generally open Monday through Friday, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Seasonal hours may vary; it is recommended to call ahead for interior tours).
Perched on the highest point in Somerset, Fort Scaur offers arguably the most spectacular panoramic views in Bermuda. Built in the 1860s during a period of tension between Great Britain and the United States, this "landward" fort was designed to protect the Royal Naval Dockyard from an attack from the south. Today, it has transitioned from a military stronghold into a peaceful 22-acre park. With its hidden grassy moats, subterranean passages, and prime bird-watching vantage points, Fort Scaur is a favorite "hidden gem" for locals seeking a quiet picnic spot and tourists looking for the perfect photograph of Ely’s Harbour.
10 Key Highlights & Features
- Panoramic Vistas: Unrivaled views overlooking the Great Sound, Ely's Harbour, and the South Shore.
- The "Disappearing" Gun: See the remnants of the Moncrieff "disappearing" carriage—a feat of 19th-century engineering.
- 22-Acre Nature Park: Extensive walking trails and manicured lawns perfect for afternoon strolls.
- Picnic Haven: Multiple scenic picnic tables and benches scattered across the ramparts for public use.
- The Moat Walk: Walk through the deep, dry grassy moats that once served as the fort's primary defense line.
- Military Graffiti: Find historic carvings in the stone walls made by soldiers stationed here over a century ago.
- Railway Trail Access: Conveniently located right off the Bermuda Railway Trail, making it a perfect stop for hikers and bikers.
- Bird Watching: A premier spot for spotting Bermuda Longtails (Bluebirds) and other migratory species from the heights.
- The Weather Stone: Look for the famous "weather stone" on-site—a local touch of Bermudian humor.
- Free Admission: Enjoy one of the island’s best historical sites and viewpoints at no cost.
