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Fort King Peter

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Fort King Peter is a historical fortification ruin situated on a steep hilltop overlooking King Peter's Bay on the western coast of Tobago. Built by the British in the late 18th century, likely around the 1770s, the fort was intended to defend this strategic stretch of coastline from French invasions and privateers. The fort was named after a local indigenous chief called Peter, who collaborated with British forces during the early colonial settlement period. Today, only sparse remnants of the fortification survive, including crumbling stone walls and a few rusted cannons that still point out toward the horizon. Despite its dilapidated state, the site provides an extraordinary panoramic view of the Caribbean Sea and the rugged western coastline. It is significantly less developed than the more famous Fort King George in Scarborough, making it a quiet and evocative location for history enthusiasts. Its historical value lies in its role within Tobago's chain of defense during the intense European power struggles of the Napoleonic era. The trek to the ruins is surrounded by dense tropical foliage, offering a glimpse into the island's untamed natural beauty.

Location: Trinidad and Tobago
Top sights: Arnos Vale, Trinidad and Tobago · Plymouth, Trinidad and Tobago
Nearby: Black Rock (4 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Feb–Apr.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	27	26	27	27	28	28	28	28	28	28	28	27
Rain mm	83	49	39	44	86	157	166	168	132	169	193	145

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

Fort King Peter is a coastal fortification that can usually be visited from the outside. The remains are freely accessible, the interior area is often not open to the public.

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Typical hours

As it is an exposed historic site, there are no fixed opening hours. Visits are possible during the day, but you should consider the tides as access may be difficult at high tide.

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Photography

Photography is allowed at any time as the site is freely accessible. Particularly impressive are shots at sunset with the sea in the background.

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Time needed

A short visit takes about 15 to 20 minutes to see the remains. Those who want to explore the surroundings should allow 30 minutes.

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Combine with

Combine your visit with nearby Fort Milford or the beaches of Great Courland Bay. The capital Scarborough is also just a short drive away.

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Getting there

Fort King Peter is located on the north coast of Tobago, about 5 kilometers from Scarborough. Access is via an unpaved road, a 4x4 is recommended in rainy weather.

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Insider tip

Wear insect repellent as there are many mosquitoes in the area. Visit at low tide to better see the structural details of the coastal fortification.

Geography

Coordinates

11.20000, -60.76000

Facts

The fort was constructed by British forces during the late 1770s.
It was named after a local chief named Peter who assisted the British.
The site is located on a hilltop overlooking King Peter's Bay.
Currently, only stone foundations and a few rusted cannons remain.
The fortification was used to defend against potential French attacks.
It is situated near the village of Moriah on Tobago's western coast.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Dutch Fort Tobago<1 km · EExplore →

Fort Bennett1 km · NWExplore →

Fort James2 km · SExplore →

French Fort Tobago3 km · WExplore →

Scarborough Botanical Gardens3 km · NExplore →

Black Rock4 km · SExplore →

Historic Signal Station4 km · NExplore →

Buccoo Marsh6 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Fort King Peter (2)

Arnos Vale, Trinidad and Tobago📍 landmark

Arnos Vale is a location on Tobago, known for its historic plantation and cemetery.

Plymouth, Trinidad and Tobago📍 landmark

Plymouth is a settlement on Tobago, located near the coast and historical sites.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How to get to Fort King Peter?

The easiest way is by car via local roads.

Is the visit free?

Yes, visiting these historical remains is free.

How long does a visit take?

About 30 minutes are enough to explore the area.

Is there parking?

There is limited parking nearby.

Is photography allowed?

Yes, photography is allowed.

Fort King Peter: where is it located?

Fort King Peter is located in Trinidad and Tobago.

Fort King Peter: what is there to see?

Highlights include Arnos Vale, Trinidad and Tobago, Plymouth, Trinidad and Tobago.

Fort King Peter: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr.

Fort King Peter: why is it worth visiting?

Fort King Peter is a historical fortification ruin situated on a steep hilltop overlooking King Peter's Bay on the western coast of Tobago.

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