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Visiting the UNESCO heritage destination St. George’s town in Bermuda is one of the highlights of most visitors’ stay. Cruisers arriving at the Royal Naval Dockyard can easily explore all St. George’s offers without a tour. That’s right – you can visit St. George’s on your own!
Getting to St. George’s
Upon arriving at the Dockyard, make your way to the Visitors Center to purchase ferry tickets. That’s right, you’ll be taking the Orange Line connecting the Dockyard to the cruise terminal in St. George’s. The ride takes approximately 45 minutes and is a scenic way to see the island.
Upon arriving at St. George’s, ask about the times for the return ferry, as you don’t want to miss it! If your cruise ship is staying late, and you’d like to stay for the sunset, you can return to the Dockyard with a public bus or a taxi. Check out other ways of getting around Bermuda.
What to Do in St. George’s
This UNESCO World Heritage town is perfect for those wishing to learn about the island’s history. Remember that I’m not a huge museum goer, so you won’t find many listed here, though the town is home to several historic museums.
Fort St. Catherine
Built in 1614, the fortification helped to protect the island from invaders. Fort St. Catherine is the island’s largest fort. The fort’s displays reflect life on the island during the 17th century. Visitors enjoy sweeping views from Achilles Bay to St. Catherine’s Beach atop the hill. It stopped being used as a fort in the 20th century.
One of the more unique facts about the fort was that a production of Macbeth was staged here featuring Charlton Heston. Today, visitors cross a drawbridge, experience a military garrison, and enjoy some of the best views on the island.
Fort St. Catherine is part of UNESCO World Heritage, which includes St. George’s and its fortifications.
The fee to visit (as of 9/23) is $7 per adult, $5 for seniors, and $3 for kids 6-15.
St. Peter’s Church
St. Peter’s Church, located in St. George’s Parish, is a historical treasure that serves as a testament to Bermuda’s lasting spiritual heritage. It was built in 1612 and is the oldest operating Anglican Church outside of the British Isles. St. Peter’s Church, located on the northeastern edge of Bermuda’s main island, provides an intriguing glimpse into the island’s early history.
Within its hallowed walls, you will encounter a variety of historical relics and architectural splendor. The church still has its original altar, an 18th-century throne recovered from a shipwreck, and communion silver from the 1600s. The African Diaspora Heritage Trail includes two historic cemeteries near the church that were historically divided for white and black Bermudians.
St. Peter’s Church is an outstanding representation of the architectural style that was popular at the time. The church’s simple yet attractive architecture, made of locally gathered Bermuda stone, blends beautifully with its lovely surroundings. Inside, a wooden altar, a pulpit, a baptismal font, and stained glass windows portray the church’s and the island’s history, among its historic and modern features.
The surrounding cemetery was the final resting place of numerous early citizens and notable figures from Bermuda. Gravestones tell intriguing stories about Bermuda’s past, providing a meaningful connection to the island’s history.
With no entrance fee, St. Peter’s Church welcomes the public, making it an accessible and culturally stimulating visit for anyone touring St. George’s town. A visit to this old church, whether by foot or by bus, promises a meaningful experience into Bermuda’s history, spirituality, and architectural splendor.
Unfinished Church
The Unfinished Church, a remarkable Gothic-style architectural wonder, holds a unique allure with its unfinished state, adding to its fascinating charm. Its walls and structural foundations are in place, yet it lacks both a roof and interior furnishings, resulting in a hauntingly beautiful, open-air space.
The church’s history is connected with a mission to rebuild the storm-damaged St. Peter’s Church, destroyed by a storm in 1824. The new church’s construction started in 1874, guided by the design of Scottish architect William Hay. However, it was never completed due to congregational differences and budgetary restrictions.
The Gothic Revival style of the church’s construction is a visual wonder, with pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and flying buttresses. Its striking look against the backdrop of a beautiful sky and the sea makes it a popular photo spot. Aside from its pleasing appearance, the Unfinished Church is a location for special events, concerts, and exhibitions, bringing its historical and cultural significance to life.
The Unfinished Church, which is open to the public and has no entrance fee, welcomes you to explore its interior and exterior, allowing you to admire its architectural structures and the tranquil gardens surrounding it.
Whether you’re drawn in by its unique aesthetics, historical tales, or the dynamic activities it hosts, the Unfinished Church guarantees an unforgettable experience for those who walk through its walls.
There is no fee to visit.
King’s Square
Colonial-era buildings surround the town’s main square. It is easy to see how everything that happened in this former capital was decided here. The Town Hall, built in 1782, is the dominant building here. The Bermuda National Trust Museum is also located here.
The building currently occupied by the Bank of Butterfield served as a mess hall during the American Revolution. The square served as the scene of public punishments, such as a whipping post, stocks, and the pillory.
If you take a walking tour, it will start from King’s Square. It also serves as a good meeting point if your group wants to explore separately. You’ll find a lot of shops and restaurants on the Square and nearby.
Old State House
Built in 1620, the Old State House served as the House of Assembly, where parliament met when St. George’s was the state capital. Other than fortifications, it was the first stone building on the island. It is currently the oldest surviving building in Bermuda, other than fortifications, of course.
Today, the annual Rent Payment Ceremony is celebrated with a 17-gun salute and a horse-drawn carriage. What is the Rent Payment Ceremony? It is the fanfare made when the Masonic Lodge makes its annual rent payment to the Governor of Bermuda. The payment is presented on a velvet cushion on a silver platter. Time your visit for around April 23rd if you want to see this unique celebration that has lasted for over 100 years.
Wander the Streets
A short ferry or bus ride from the Royal Naval Dockyard will transport you to St. George’s, a UNESCO-listed town that is a testament to Bermuda’s rich and enduring history. As the oldest continuously inhabited English-speaking town in the Americas, St. George’s invites you to wander through its narrow streets and immerse yourself in a past era.
A stroll through St. George’s feels like a journey into a charming time capsule. Beautifully preserved historic buildings line cobblestone streets, each whispering stories of Bermuda’s historical past. Among these architectural treasures stands St. Peter’s Church, a living relic and the oldest Anglican church in continuous use beyond the British Isles. Its serene interior and ancient graveyard are testaments to centuries of history.
One of the town’s must-visit sites is the Bermuda National Trust Museum, housed in the historic Mitchell House. Here, you can dive deeper into the island’s captivating history and gain insights into the lives of its early settlers. The museum’s exhibits shed light on Bermuda’s maritime heritage, display centuries-old artifacts, and illuminate the island’s essential role in shaping historical events.
St. George’s enchants visitors not only with its historical landmarks but also with its natural splendor. Magnificent views of crystal-clear waters and breathtaking scenery surround the town. If you still have time, I highly recommend taking a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores of Tobacco Bay Beach, where you may bask in the sun’s warmth or go snorkeling to see the diverse marine life that thrives beneath the surface.
Tobacco Bay
After you’ve had your fill of historic sites, go to scenic Tobacco Bay to enjoy one of Bermuda’s famous beaches. It was named after some tobacco was found growing here many years ago. Be aware that the sand here is more of a golden yellow and the water is the beautiful blue you’ve come to expect in Bermuda.
Because the water is shallow here, it is a popular destination for those who want to snorkel. If you take the time, you can spot blue parrotfish and angel fishes. Look for sheltered spots, especially with reefs, to find the most aquatic life.
The beach includes facilities such as restrooms and showers. A full-service beach bar and restaurant serve food like burgers and hot dogs. You can try the island’s famous rum swizzle, too!
You can rent loungers, chairs, and umbrellas, which makes it an attractive spot to spend some time. There’s also free wifi, so whether you want to reconnect with the world or not is up to you. If you’re not much of a lounger, you can rent kayaks, paddleboards, and more.
Visiting Tobacco Bay Beach is a great way to end your St. George’s exploration.
Final Thoughts on Visiting St. George’s Bermuda on Your Own
You don’t need to book a tour to visit scenic St. George’s in Bermuda (though you can). This historic destination is easily reached and explored on your own.
Have you visited St. George’s? What was your favorite thing to do?
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Happy travels,
Annick, The Common Traveler
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Raised as a third culture kid living in South America and Europe, Annick caught the travel bug early. As an empty-nester, Annick enjoys sharing her tips for traveling for those with champagne taste and beer budgets.