Bermuda is rich in history, especially the East End, St. George’s. This fact has been documented through out the centuries by the several forts that were established.

Forts are the oldest stone buildings in Bermuda and they are one of the reasons St. George’s enjoys World Heritage Status.

Since the 1600s the fortifications have stood solid and though we are probably most familiar with Fort St. Catherine and Gates Fort there is an amazing seaside fort in between the two, Alexandra Battery.

Where is it? From Fort St. Catherine head down the hill and take a left onto Barry Road. Stay on Barry Road which is narrow and winding, about a mile. Alexandra Battery is on the left and is about a 20 minute walk from Fort St. Catherine.

It stands next to Frobisher’s Building’s Bay where Sir Thomas Gates supervised the building of the ship, Deliverance, in 1610. The battery was completed in the 1860s and armed with five nine-inch muzzle-loading guns which were mounted behind iron battery shields.

In the 1890s the iron-fronted emplacements were covered by emplacements for two six-inch breech-loading guns. The 1900s magazine with the battery name over its entrance is at the Battery’s southern end.

You can carefully climb the steps to the six-inch breech-loading gun replacements and enjoy the views from the command post to their right.

The North Shore views from this spot are fantastic on a clear day. There is a large field perfect for sunny picnics on calm days. You can spread out your picnic blanket and enjoy the gentle sea breeze and the simple pleasure of being outdoors.

After lunch and a cat nap you may then walk back to Building’s Bay for an inviting swim. You might want to wear light swim shoes or old tennis shoes to protect your feet as this area is known for its pieces of colourful glass that wash ashore. Normally the edges of the glass are smoothly worn from their sea travels. There is a certain amount of sea surge here so never leave small children nor weak swimmers alone. It is a great place for snorkelling on a calm, sunny day.

This is a wonderful way to experience East End history: tour a fort, have a picnic and cat nap, followed by a refreshing swim.

You can dry off in the sun while collecting a variety of sea glass and sea shells. Later follow your creativity and design something nice like a cigar box decorated with your treasure.