Explore Nassau’s Historic Forts on a Fun-Filled Adventure

Three historic forts still stand in Nassau — Fort Charlotte, Fort Fincastle, and Fort Montagu — each built between 1741 and 1793 to defend the island from pirates, Spanish invaders, and foreign navies. A fourth, Fort Nassau, was demolished in 1897 and only its ruins remain at the British Colonial Hilton Nassau site. Together, these fortifications trace Nassau’s evolution from a pirate stronghold to a British colonial outpost to the capital of The Bahamas.

This guide covers all three standing forts plus the landmarks that pair naturally with them — the Queen’s Staircase, Parliament Square, and Government House — so you can plan a half-day or full-day walking route without wasting time backtracking through downtown Nassau heat. Whether you’re on a cruise port day or staying inland, the forts sit close enough to downtown that you can hit two or three in a single outing.

Nassau’s Three Forts at a Glance

Each fort serves a different purpose and requires a different time commitment. The table below compares them at a glance so you can decide which ones fit your schedule.

Note: Prices are approximate and sourced from travel guides. Confirm current entry fees before you go.

Fort Charlotte — The Largest and Most Immersive

Fort Charlotte sprawls across 100 acres on West Bay Street, set on a hill that frames Nassau Harbour and Paradise Island. Built in 1787 by British colonial governor Lord Dunmore and named after Queen Charlotte, wife of King George III, it’s the largest fort on New Providence island. Its 42 cannons remain in place, though the fort never saw battle — construction finished after the American Revolutionary War, by which time the immediate threat had passed.

What makes Fort Charlotte worth more time than the other two is what lies beneath. Underground passageways, dungeons, and a moat run through the complex, and actors in 18th-century attire stage historical reenactments that bring the colonial era to life. Guided tours are available, and guides work for tips rather than a fixed fee. The entrance fee is roughly $5 for adults and $2 for children, though you’ll want to confirm current pricing at the gate.

Limited shade covers much of the upper fort, so bring water and sun protection — especially if you’re visiting midday.

Fort Fincastle — Small Site, Big Views

A 30-minute walk from Fort Charlotte brings you to Fort Fincastle, perched atop Bennett’s Hill — the highest point in the city. Also built by Lord Dunmore, this fort dates to 1793 and was designed to protect Nassau from pirates and Spanish invaders. It’s compact compared to Fort Charlotte, but its position delivers the best harbour views on the island. You can see across Nassau Harbour, over the city, and out to the turquoise sea beyond.

The entrance fee runs a few dollars, and guided tours are available daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fort Fincastle shares its property with the Queen’s Staircase, which means you get two historic attractions in one stop. Most visitors climb the 66 steps, explore the fort for 20–30 minutes, and move on — making this a quick but worthwhile detour.

Fort Montagu — The Oldest Standing Fort

Fort Montagu sits on the eastern shore of New Providence, a quieter waterfront stop that dates to 1741 — making it the oldest Nassau fort still standing. Construction was overseen by Peter Henry Bruce, and the fort was built as a defense against Spanish invaders. It played a notable role during the American Revolutionary War when American forces took over the site in the 1776 Battle of Nassau.

At roughly $2 for entry, it’s the cheapest fort to visit. Guided walking tours and audio tours are available Monday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Fort Montagu is smaller than Fort Charlotte and less dramatic than Fort Fincastle, but its location on the water gives it an open, breezy feel. From the top you can see across the Caribbean Sea toward Paradise Island. It’s a 10-minute drive from Fort Fincastle or a 50-minute walk if you’re taking the scenic route along the coast.

Landmarks That Pair With the Forts

Three non-fort landmarks sit close enough to the forts that you can weave them into the same walk without extra travel.

Queen’s Staircase. Carved from solid limestone by enslaved workers in the late 18th century, this 66-step passageway was designed as a practical route between the fort area and downtown Nassau. It leads directly to Fort Fincastle, which is why the two are almost always paired. The stone walls stay shaded and noticeably cooler than the open streets — go earlier in the day for better light and fewer crowds.

Parliament Square. A cluster of flamingo-pink colonial buildings houses the House of Assembly, the Senate, and the Supreme Court. A statue of Queen Victoria was erected here on May 24, 1905, commemorating her birthday. The square sits downtown and makes a natural starting point for a walking route toward the forts.

Government House. The pink-and-white mansion serves as the official residence of the Governor-General of The Bahamas. A statue of Christopher Columbus, imported from London in 1830, stands in front. The building blends Bahamian, British, and American Colonial architectural styles — worth a quick photo stop on your way between sites.

Planning Your Nassau Fort Adventure

Nassau gets hot fast, especially when you’re walking uphill toward the forts. The practical details below will save you time and discomfort.

Route and Timing

A logical walking route starts at Parliament Square downtown, heads to the Queen’s Staircase and Fort Fincastle (paired on the same property), then continues to Fort Charlotte. Fort Montagu sits east of downtown — add it if you have a full day or a car. Half a day is enough for two forts and one museum. A full day lets you add Clifton Heritage Park or a distillery stop without rushing.

Costs

Entry fees range from roughly $2 to $5 per fort. Fort Charlotte charges the most at about $5 for adults and $2 for children. Fort Montagu runs around $2. Fort Fincastle is a few dollars. Bring cash — not all sites have card facilities. Guided tours at Fort Charlotte operate on tips rather than set fees.

What to Bring

Comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable — the streets around the forts are uneven, and the Queen’s Staircase has 66 steps. Water, sun protection, and a hat matter more than you’d expect because shade is limited at Fort Charlotte and exposed along the walking route. Light, breathable clothing works best, with a respectful layer for any church or indoor stops you add.

If you’d rather let someone handle the logistics, guided tours that cover multiple forts and downtown landmarks are available. A historical and heritage tour of Nassau on Viator bundles several sites with transport, which is especially useful if you’re working with a short port day.

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Before You Visit Nassau’s Historic Forts

Can I visit all three forts in one day?

Yes, if you have a full day and don’t mind a walking-heavy itinerary. Start at Parliament Square, hit Queen’s Staircase and Fort Fincastle together, then taxi to Fort Charlotte. Add Fort Montagu if you have a car or extra time — it’s a 10-minute drive east from Fort Fincastle.

Which fort is best for families with kids?

Fort Charlotte, because of the underground passageways, dungeons, and costumed reenactors. Kids can explore the tunnels and see the cannons up close. Just bring water and sun protection — shade is limited in the upper areas.

How much time do I need at each fort?

Fort Charlotte needs about an hour if you do the tunnels and ramparts. Fort Fincastle takes 20–30 minutes — it’s compact. Fort Montagu is a 20-minute stop. Combine Fort Fincastle with the Queen’s Staircase (add 10–15 minutes) and you can cover two attractions in under an hour.

Are the forts accessible for anyone with mobility concerns?

Fort Fincastle sits at the top of Bennett’s Hill and requires climbing the 66-step Queen’s Staircase or a steep road approach. Fort Charlotte has underground passageways with uneven footing. Fort Montagu is the most level of the three. None are fully wheelchair accessible based on the available research — plan accordingly.

What’s the downside of visiting the forts?

The heat. Nassau’s sun is intense, and walking between the forts — especially Fort Charlotte to Fort Fincastle (30 minutes on foot) — can be draining midday. Go early, take taxis between sites if needed, and carry more water than you think you’ll need.

Closing

Nassau’s three standing forts trace the island’s journey from a pirate haven to a British colonial hub to a modern capital — each one tells a different chapter of that story, and they’re close enough to visit in a single outing without feeling rushed. Start at the Queen’s Staircase, work your way up to the harbour views at Fort Fincastle, and save the underground tunnels of Fort Charlotte for when the sun is highest and you need the shade. If you’re looking for more ways to explore Nassau’s waters after your fort tour, check out our guide to paddleboarding adventures in Nassau.

References

Sandals Blog. “Forts of Nassau.” Sandals, 2024. ↗

Best Cruise Adventures. “Nassau Bahamas Beyond the Cruise Port in 2026.” Best Cruise Adventures, 2025. ↗

Nassau Paradise Island. “History and Culture in Nassau Paradise Island.” Nassau Paradise Island Promotion Board, 2025. ↗

Shore Excursions Group. “7 Best Historical Sites in Nassau Bahamas Worth Exploring.” Shore Excursions Group, 2025. ↗

For more Bahamas travel ideas, read our guides on shark diving in crystal-clear waters and kayaking through Exuma’s lush mangroves. Both pair well with a Nassau fort day if you’re extending your stay on New Providence.