Fort Bullen, Colonial fort at River Gambia estuary, Gambia.
Fort Bullen is a fortress standing on the banks of the Gambia River, featuring a rectangular layout with four circular bastions and thick brick walls. Cannons are positioned along the riverside to command views of the water passage.
British forces built this fort in 1826 to stop French and Portuguese traders from continuing the illegal slave trade in the region. It represents an early military commitment to enforcing the abolition of slavery in West Africa.
The fort stands as part of the Kunta Kinteh Island UNESCO World Heritage Site, representing colonial military presence and anti-slavery efforts in West Africa.
The site is open daily for visits with guided tours offered to explore the fortification in detail. Wear light clothing and bring water, as the riverside location provides little shade.
During World War II, the 1st Coast Battery reactivated this abandoned fort as a defensive position against potential threats from nearby Senegal. This military role shows how the structure remained strategically important even after losing its original purpose.
Location: North Bank Division
Inception: 1826
Part of: Kunta Kinteh Island and Related Sites
Address: FFP2+XGW, Barra, The Gambia
Opening Hours: Monday-Sunday 08:00-18:00
GPS coordinates: 13.48749,-16.54843
Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:47
Gambia has many different kinds of landscapes and experiences. Along the Atlantic coast, you will find beaches where it is nice to relax. Inside the country, the Gambia River creates a natural corridor with islands along its path. These areas are good for watching local animals, like birds and...
Kunta Kinteh Island
27.7 km
Arch 22
4.8 km
Kunta Kinteh Island and Related Sites
27.7 km
Abuko Nature Reserve
14.7 km
Kachikally Museum and Crocodile Pool
13.5 km
Albert Market
4.5 km
Bijilo Forest Park
20.2 km
Banjul Island
5 km
Tanbi Wetland Complex
10.8 km
Denton Bridge
8.9 km
Tanji Bird Reserve
29.9 km
King Fahad Mosque in Banjul
5 km
Box Bar Stadium
5 km
Pipeline Mosque
15.1 km
Portuguese Chapel of Albreda
24.6 km
Maurel Frères Building
24.6 km
Tanji Bridge
30.4 km
Trinity Methodist Church
14.9 km
Isla Sansankoto
30.1 km
Kotu Beach
17.9 km
Musée national de Gambie
4.6 km
Bakau Craft Market
13.5 km
Fort James Island
27.7 km
Brikama Craft Market
25 km
Makasutu Culture Forest
20.7 km
CFAO Building
24.7 km
National Botanical Gardens
13.4 km
Beach
13.8 kmVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes