National Museum of Bermuda

The first fortification to occupy this spot on the northern tip of Bermuda was built from wood in 1612; it was replaced just two years later by a stone structure. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this fort was rebuilt and expanded several more times over the centuries as the needs of the Royal Navy changed and its presence on Bermuda increased. The final expansion in the 19th century included the addition of military housing and new gun positions. Today the site, which sits between St. Catherine Beach and Achilles Bay, includes a dry moat, numerous stone buildings, and a museum that features antique weapons and a gallery of dioramas that trace the fort’s various iterations.

Fort St. Catherine is a well-preserved military fort on the far northeastern tip of Bermuda, about a 20-minute walk from quaint St. George’s. It was established in 1612 to help protect Bermuda against Spanish attack, and remained in use for hundreds of years, being rebuilt a number of times over the centuries. Today, the fort is set up as a history museum, with a decidedly military bent. You can wander the tunnels, supply rooms, and ramparts, all peppered with cannons, dioramas, and exhibitions on such topics as the importance of the fort following the American War of Independence, when Bermuda became essentially a British naval base protecting the western Atlantic trade routes. It’s an informative, if sometimes dry, visit, unless you happen to geek out on artillery through the ages. If you don’t feel the need to read every single inscription, you could be out of there in an hour and on your way to nearby Tobacco Bay. Entrance is $7, and the fort is open 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily. There’s a passable restaurant next door if you need refreshments.

Oh, the maritime battles and pirate adventures to explore! I like to do a little research about the history and culture of a place, even if I’m going to dive headlong into the requisite hedonism of a proper island vacation. Bermuda gets even more charming once you learn about its colonial and naval history. To satisfy my craving for historical backdrop, Fort St. Catherine, Fort Hamilton and The Royal Navy Dockyard are musts. A hotelier I chatted with let me in on a local secret: there’s a tiny hidden beach below the Royal Artillery Association Club in St. Georges, just a stone’s throw away from Fort St. Catherine. After getting your history lesson on, a Dark n’ Stormy cocktail and a snooze on the beach are in order to allow for full absorption of information.

Primitive punishment devices, massive stone forts, and a dragon slayer history make the UNESCO World Heritage Site of St. George a fun day trip for even the youngest of travelers. Bermuda’s capital for 200 years, St. George was named after a dragon slayer and patron saint of England. The King’s Square stocks and pillory is a must-do photo op for squabbling siblings. Once used to dunk gossiping women into the water, the replica ducking stool is used for reenactments with actors and volunteers. After crossing a drawbridge entrance, young adventurers can explore tunnels, towers, and tons of other rustic remnants at Fort St. Catherine. Dating from 1614, the fort contains replicas of Britain’s Crown Jewels and big, antique artillery.

Proximity to beaches and attractions, a fun atmosphere, and menu offerings are key considerations for parents traveling with children of any age. La Trattoria, in Hamilton, serves up kid-friendly portions of pizza, pasta, and grilled cheese as well as sides such as raw or steamed vegetables that will please the palettes of the youngest of culinary critics. Choose the take-out option at any number of island eateries and enjoy a picnic on pink sand with the stone fortress of Fort St. Catherine in the background. Fish and chips and a large game room make the former barrel making factory of the Frog and Onion Pub the perfect place for lunch after a morning of exploring the Royal Naval Dockyard.

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