English Harbour - Discovering Antigua and Barbuda

Travelling to English Harbour

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in English Harbour, a pretty good destination in Antigua and Barbuda (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to English Harbour and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around English Harbour, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Antigua and Barbuda, here's everything to know about English Harbour for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to English Harbour

English Harbour is a natural harbor and historic district in the southern part of Antigua, in the island nation of Antigua and Barbuda. It was first settled by the British in the 17th century, and was used as a base for the Royal Navy during the Napoleonic Wars. Today, the area is known for its colonial-era architecture, yachting industry, and numerous historic sites such as Nelson's Dockyard and Shirley Heights. The area is also home to several beaches, restaurants, and accommodation options for visitors to the island.

What to visit in English Harbour

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in English Harbour, Antigua and Barbuda: 1. Nelson's Dockyard: This historic site was once a naval base and is now a popular tourist attraction. It has been beautifully restored and features many old buildings, including the Dockyard Museum, restaurants, and shops.
2. Shirley Heights Lookout: This scenic viewpoint offers spectacular views of the surrounding area, including the harbor and the neighboring islands. On Sundays, there are also lively music and food events.
3. Dow's Hill Interpretation Centre: This center provides visitors with historical information about Antigua and Barbuda, including audio-visual displays and exhibits.
4. Falmouth Harbour Marina: This marina is home to many luxury yachts and is a hub for modern-day sailors. Visitors can stroll the docks and admire the impressive vessels.
5. Galleon Beach: This beach is a secluded spot with crystal-clear water and white sand. It is great for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
6. The Pillars of Hercules: This natural formation provides a great spot for hiking and picture-taking. Its name reflects the former belief that this was the end of the world.
7. Pigeon Point Beach: Another beautiful beach in English Harbour, it is located close to the marina and offers a lovely view of the bay. It is also great for water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding.

You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in English Harbour.

When to go on holiday to English Harbour

The best time to visit English Harbour in Antigua and Barbuda is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. During this period, you can expect warm temperatures, low humidity, and very little chance of rain. This makes it the ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and exploring the historic sites of the town.
However, it's worth noting that the dry season is also the peak tourist season, so you can expect bigger crowds and higher prices for accommodation and activities. If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option or prefer quieter surroundings, you may want to consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of May to July or September to November, where you may experience short rain showers but still enjoy warm temperatures and fewer crowds.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to English Harbour

To get to English Harbour in Antigua and Barbuda, you can either fly into V.C. Bird International Airport, the main airport in Antigua, then take a taxi or rent a car to English Harbour, which is about a 30-minute drive away.
You can also take a ferry from St. John's in Antigua to English Harbour, which takes about 45 minutes. Another option is to take a private yacht or boat to English Harbour if you're traveling in a group.
Once you're in English Harbour, you can explore the famous Nelson's Dockyard, a restored 18th-century naval base, and visit nearby attractions such as the Shirley Heights Lookout for panoramic views of the harbor and the island.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit English Harbour, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in English Harbour

Here are some typical foods of English Harbour in Antigua and Barbuda: 1. Conch Fritters - These are deep-fried balls made with conch meat and various seasonings. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and often served with a dipping sauce.
2. Pepperpot - This is a spicy stew made with local vegetables, meat (usually beef, pork, or goat), and a variety of herbs and spices. It is traditionally served with "fungi," which is a cornmeal dumpling.
3. Salt Fish and Dumplings - This dish features salted codfish that is boiled and served with dumplings made from flour and water or cornmeal.
4. Rice and Peas - This is a staple dish in Antigua and Barbuda, and it is made with rice, pigeon peas, herbs, and coconut milk. It is often served with jerk chicken or fish.
5. Seafood platter - this platter includes a variety of seafood such as lobster, shrimp, crab and fish, which are grilled or fried and served with sides such as rice and peas and plantains.
6. Roti - This is a popular street food that originated in India and is popular in Antigua and Barbuda. It is a type of flatbread that is stuffed with curried meat or vegetables, and often served with a spicy sauce.
7. West Indian Curry Chicken - This dish features chicken cooked in a flavorful curry sauce with potatoes, onions, and other vegetables. It is often served with rice and peas or roti.
You can find general info about typical foods in Antigua and Barbuda here.

Is English Harbour an expensive destination for tourists?

English Harbour in Antigua and Barbuda can be considered a relatively expensive destination for tourists. The cost of accommodation, food, and activities can be high, especially during peak tourist season (December to April). However, there are always ways to save money on travel, such as booking accommodations in advance, opting for local street food instead of dining out in fancy restaurants, and researching free or low-cost activities to enjoy. It is also worth considering a travel package that includes flights, accommodations and activities to get the best value for your money.

Where to find accomodation in English Harbour

The best areas to find accommodation when visiting English Harbour in Antigua and Barbuda are: 1. English Harbour - This area is in close proximity to the historic Nelson's Dockyard and several restaurants, shops, and bars.
2. Falmouth Harbour - This area is located near some of the island's best marinas and luxury yachts, as well as several beaches and restaurants.
3. Jolly Harbour - This area is home to a large marina, golf course, and several shops, restaurants, and bars.
4. Half Moon Bay - This area is located on the eastern side of the island and offers more secluded and private accommodations, as well as a stunning beach.
Overall, each area offers its own unique atmosphere and attractions, but all are within easy reach of English Harbour and other popular destinations on the island.
You can check hotel prices at English Harbour here:
Booking.com

Is English Harbour a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, English Harbour in Antigua and Barbuda is generally considered a safe place for tourists. The area has a low incidence of crime and is well-policed. However, as with any destination, it is always a good idea to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, particularly at night and in isolated areas. It is also recommended to store your valuables in a safe place and avoid displaying large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry. Overall, English Harbour is a beautiful and enjoyable destination for travelers.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Antigua and Barbuda here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting English Harbour.

What type of travelers will enjoy English Harbour the most?

English Harbour in Antigua and Barbuda is a great destination for all types of travelers. It offers a mix of history, natural beauty, and recreational activities, making it a great place for couples, young people, and families. Couples will enjoy the romantic ambiance of the historic town and its picturesque harbor. They can take a sunset sail, enjoy a candlelit dinner, or simply stroll along the harbor arm in arm.
Young people looking for fun can enjoy the vibrant nightlife scene, which includes bars, clubs, and live music. There are also opportunities for water sports such as snorkeling, diving, and jet skiing.
Families will enjoy the many activities geared towards children, such as the Antigua Rainforest Canopy Tour, Stingray City, and the Nelson's Dockyard Museum. There are also plenty of family-friendly beaches, restaurants, and accommodation options. In summary, English Harbour is a destination for all types of travelers and offers something unique and worthwhile for everyone.

How to get around English Harbour

The best way to move around English Harbour in Antigua and Barbuda is by taxi or rental car. Taxis are readily available at the airport and around the town, and rental cars can be an affordable option for those who prefer the convenience of private transportation. Additionally, there are also buses and minibusses available that can take you to neighboring villages and beaches.

What to see around English Harbour

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from English Harbour: 1. Shirley Heights Lookout: This is a historic military lookout offering stunning views of English Harbour and the surrounding area.
2. Nelson’s Dockyard: This is a restored Georgian naval dockyard which houses a fascinating museum as well as shops, restaurants, and bars.
3. Betty’s Hope: This historic sugar plantation is one of Antigua’s most important landmarks and offers a glimpse into the island’s colonial past.
4. Devil’s Bridge: This natural limestone arch stands on the east coast of Antigua and is a popular spot for hiking and sightseeing.
5. Half Moon Bay: This beautiful crescent-shaped beach is known for its crystal-clear waters and soft white sands.
6. St. John’s: This vibrant capital city is home to many colonial-era buildings, a lively harborfront, and plenty of shopping and dining options.
7. Darkwood Beach: This beautiful stretch of sand is a favorite spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
8. Green Island: This uninhabited island off the coast of Antigua is a popular spot for day trips and features several beautiful beaches and hiking trails.
For every travel information about Antigua and Barbuda you can click here.

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