Fort Fincastle

Fort Fincastle Bahamas is one of the three remaining Nassau Forts. With walls, cannons, and great views of the island, it’s a New Providence highlight.

If you’re looking to learn a bit about Nassau’s rich history while sticking in the Downtown area, Fort Fincastle Bahamas is the place to visit. With tall walls, cannon emplacements, and prime access to other sites like Queens Staircase Nassau, it’s the perfect destination to add to any Bahamas itinerary. 

 

Fort Fincastle Bahamas: The Best of the Bahamas Forts 

Fort Fincastle: How to Visit

Fort Fincastle Bahamas is a great destination to visit, even if you don’t have a lot of time in Nassau. Located in the Nassau Old Town area, it’s easy to reach from the cruise port and other downtown locations.

If you’re visiting the Bahamas on a cruise ship, a walk from the terminal to the Nassau forts will take around 15 minutes. Part of that walk requires you to head uphill since Fort Fincastle is on the highest point of the island, Bennet Hill. Because of that, while it isn’t a difficult walk, it is one that’ll get your blood flowing. 

There are two routes that allow you to reach the fort on foot – Elisabeth Avenue, which requires you to walk up Queens Staircase Nassau, and East Street, which allows you to circumvent the steps. The latter route is slightly easier, especially for travelers who struggle with mobility. 

Taxiing to the fort is also an option, and a great one if you’re staying at a hotel on Paradise Island or another, more remote location. Depending on where you stay, taking a bus can also be an affordable option. 

Nassau Forts: Where Are They?

As mentioned, Fort Fincastle Bahamas is in Downtown Nassau on the tallest point of New Providence. You’ll find it on Prison Lane, which is a small road that branches off East Street. 

There are two other Bahamas forts in the capital: Fort Charlotte and Fort Montagu. While it’s not as close to the cruise terminal as Fort Fincastle, Fort Charlotte still has an accessible location. It’s a bit west, past Junkanoo Beach and close to Arawak Cay. 

Fort Montagu is on the eastern side of the island, as the colonial government constructed it to protect access to the Nassau Harbour. It’s smaller, and while it’s the oldest of the Nassau forts, it doesn’t have as much to offer as the other two. 

What to See at Fort Fincastle Bahamas

Pieces of History

Dating back to the 1700s, Fort Fincastle Bahamas is one of the oldest structures on the island. Constructed by Lord Dunmore to keep the island safe from pirates and rival European empires, the fort’s walls, cannons, and unique shape speak to the threats the early colony faced. 

Today, the fort’s well-preserved condition makes it easy to feel like you’ve been transported back in time. 

The 66 Steps Bahamas 

Queens Staircase Nassau is a 66-step flight of stairs that provided emergency access to the fort. Carved into solid limestone by hundreds of slaves, its name honors Queen Victoria, an English monarch. 

Whether you walk up the staircase to reach Fort Fincastle or just view it from the top, you’ll find it to be a scenic, tropical site. 

Views of the Island

Given its location, Fort Fincastle Bahamas is one of the best places to enjoy scenic views of Nassau. From the harbor to different parts of the city, it’s a great place to get your bearings and appreciate your surroundings! 

 

Bahamas Forts: Learn About Nassau Old Town 

Fort Fincastle Bahamas is one of the three Bahamas forts. Given its historical significance and accessible downtown location, it’s one of the top attractions to visit in Nassau. This is particularly true if you enjoy history!

If you’re looking to learn more about the Nassau sites that travelers often miss, make sure to check out our other travel guides and interactive map.

 

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