Fort Barrington

Fort Barrington is a British military fort built atop a hillside west of the harbor, featuring circular battery platforms, magazine storage rooms, and barracks structures. The site offers clear views across the harbor entrance of St. John's and the coastal landscape beyond.

The fort was established in 1779 by Admiral Samuel Barrington to defend St. John's Harbor during British colonial rule of the Caribbean island. It served as a key defensive post against naval threats and remained militarily active throughout the colonial period.

The fort reflects British military presence through its solid construction and elevated position that commanded the harbor below. Visitors can walk along the old gun placements and understand how soldiers monitored the waters from this vantage point.

Reaching the site requires a moderate uphill walk, so wear sturdy shoes and bring water for the climb. The path has some shaded sections, but the open areas of the fort grounds can be quite sunny and exposed.

The fort is the only military installation on the island that actually came under fire during its operational years. This combat experience sets it apart from other defensive structures in the region that remained largely ceremonial in nature.

GPS coordinates: 17.12985,-61.88626

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:08