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Fort Montagu
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Historical site
Fort Montagu is the oldest standing fortification on New Providence Island, constructed by the British between 1741 and 1742. Designed by engineer Peter Henry Bruce, the fort was built to guard the eastern entrance to Nassau Harbour against potential Spanish and French incursions. Built entirely from local limestone, it originally housed a battery of 17 cannons to defend the colonial capital. The site gained international historical significance in 1776 as the location of the first successful amphibious landing by the United States Continental Marines during the American Revolutionary War. After a brief Spanish occupation in 1782, it was recaptured in 1783 by Loyalist forces led by Colonel Andrew Deveaux. Today, the fort remains a well-preserved historical landmark, illustrating 18th-century military engineering and the strategic maritime history of the Caribbean region.
- Location: Bahamas
- Top sights: French Cloister at Versailles Gardens · The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort · Pure Silk-Bahamas LPGA Classic
- Nearby: Sandy Point (21 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 23 | 23 | 23 | 25 | 26 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 25 | 24 |
| Rain mm | 38 | 33 | 40 | 61 | 127 | 162 | 130 | 154 | 164 | 119 | 68 | 40 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Fort Montagu is the oldest surviving fort on New Providence and is open to visitors. Access to the interior is possible, though some areas may be cordoned off.
Typical hours
Opening hours are usually during the day, often from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is best to check the exact times on the official website beforehand.
Photography
Photography is allowed, but with restrictions in sensitive areas. The exterior view of the fort with the sea in the background is especially photogenic.
Time needed
Allow about 45 minutes to an hour for a visit. The relatively small site can be explored quickly but gives plenty of details.
Combine with
Combine the visit with Fort Charlotte and the Nassau Straw Market. The nearby Junkanoo Beach is also worth a stroll.
Getting there
The fort is located at the eastern end of Bay Street in Nassau, accessible on foot or by bus. Many hop-on-hop-off buses stop here.
Insider tip
Visit the fort in the late afternoon to make use of the golden light for photos. A small admission fee is often charged; keep cash handy.
Geography
Facts
- Constructed between 1741 and 1742 by the British
- Site of the first US Marine Corps expedition in 1776
- Originally armed with a battery of 17 cannons
- Built using locally quarried limestone blocks
- Briefly fell under Spanish control in 1782
- Recaptured by Loyalist Andrew Deveaux in 1783
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Fort Montagu (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
When was it built?
The fort was built in 1741 and is the oldest in Nassau.
Is there an entry fee?
Entry is usually free, but donations are welcome.
Where is the fort located?
It is located at the eastern end of Nassau Harbor.
Are there guided tours?
Local guides are often on-site to provide explanations for a tip.
How long does the visit take?
Plan for about 20 to 30 minutes to look around.
Fort Montagu: where is it located?
Fort Montagu is located in Bahamas.
Fort Montagu: what is there to see?
Highlights include French Cloister at Versailles Gardens, The Ocean Club, A Four Seasons Resort, Pure Silk-Bahamas LPGA Classic.
Fort Montagu: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Fort Montagu: why is it worth visiting?
Fort Montagu is the oldest standing fortification on New Providence Island, constructed by the British between 1741 and 1742.
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