Town of St. George

We love the old-world ambiance of the Town of St. George, with its plethora of historical attractions and its tiny, picturesque streets. We recommend that you set aside a least half a day to soak up its charm at a leisurely pace. Meander through the narrow streets on your own, or follow the tour we've outlined below. Either way, you're bound to have a lovely time.

Park your bike or scooter in the parking lot by King's Square and head over to the full-scale replica of Deliverance, located on Ordnance Island. The original ship was built (using local cedar) in 1610 to replace a shipwrecked vessel carrying settlers bound for Virginia. Some of these settlers stayed on Bermuda after Deliverance sailed off, thus establishing Britain's claim to Bermuda. You can tour the ship's hold to get a sense of the cramped quarters the colonists had to endure during their Atlantic Ocean crossings. Tel. 441-297-1459.

Return to King's Square to experience an example of 18th century justice. The Town Crier assembles a crowd for a mock tribunal every Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday at noon (Wednesday and Saturday only, from November to March). Convicted offenders (volunteers from the audience) face punishment in the Stocks & Pillory or via the Ducking Stool. The whole re-enactment lasts about 45 minutes, and the show is free. Even if you aren't around at showtime, be sure to check out these remnants of colonial civic life -- and don't miss the photo opps that they provide!

Walk by the Town Hall (where the mayor and council still meet) and the Old State House (the oldest building in Bermuda, now home to the Freemasons) to King Street and turn left onto Princess Street, which quickly ends at York Street. Cross York and enter Somers Garden, a small park built to commemorate the founding of Bermuda by Admiral Sir George Somers, who first claimed Bermuda for the British in 1610, and who ultimately died here. Following the practice at the time, his heart was buried here (you'll see the tomb) while the rest of his body was shipped back to England.

Go back to York Street and proceed west to the Bermuda National Trust Museum, which is housed in a 17th century building near King's Square. The museum's video provides a good introduction to Bermuda's history. Tel. 441-297-1423.

Continue west on York Street, then turn left onto Barber's Alley and right on Water Street where you'll find the Tucker House. You'll get a feel for 18th-century Bermudian life at this magnificent home, which features displays of antiques, silver, crystal and family art. Don't miss the archaeology exhibit in the basement. Telephone 441-297-0545 for details.

Our tour ends by returning to King's Square via Water Street, perhaps stopping in a few of the town's enticing shops and restaurants on your way.

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