A recently restored battery demonstrates how Fort Shirley protected Prince Rupert Bay, the best anchorage on Dominica. The bay itself has a long history. In 1493 one of Columbus' ships entered the bay, and by 1535 the Spanish made it station along their official treasure ship route.

Check out the map to see how the fort sits on a volcanic headland, strategically overlooking the bay. Construction of the fort began in 1765 after France ceded Dominica to the British at the Treaty of Paris. The French won it back in 1778, only to cede it again five years later at the Treaty of Versailles. At it's height the fort housed over 600 men, but in 1854 it was finally abandoned as the British and French made up.

Today the fort is a public park open for all to visit. Pack and lunch and enjoy the view.

Search Hotels in Saint John Parish

Upfront pricing
Our total price for your stay includes taxes and fees
Treat yourself
Save 10% or more on over 100,000 hotels worldwide with Member Prices
Learn about One Key
Be picky
Search almost a million properties worldwide

Save an average of 15% on thousands of hotels when you're signed in

Top Saint John Parish Hotel Reviews

Fort Young Hotel

10/10 Excellent

"Close to all shops"

Atlantique View Resort & Spa

6/10 Okay

"The staff were great, very friendly and accommodating throughout our stay. However, the hotel itself needs some major improvements, especially the room. The AC was leaking, leaving a puddle of water on the floor, and there weren’t enough towels to soak it up. The couch and chairs were very worn out, when you sit down, you sink right into them, and the tables and counters were peeling at the bottom. There were several other small issues that could use attention as well. Overall, it’s a very beautiful hotel with so much potential, and we still enjoyed our stay thanks to the wonderful staff. "