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The National Park is remarkable as it covers many important aspects
of Antigua - its fascinating and colourful history, the relevance
of the past to the present Antiguan culture shown at the Dow's
Hill Historical Centre and the protection/ conservation of
the historical and natural resources within the Park. There's
plenty to see and do - excellent beaches, museums, shopping,
nightlife, dining and sporting activities all within the park.
The area from which the Park takes its name - Nelson's Dockyard
- is the centrepiece of the park with immaculately restored buildings
and informative displays and signs throughout the area. Some
of the buildings to keep in mind are The Admiral's House
(which now houses the Museum), ruins of the Cordage, Canvas
and Clothing Store, and the Capstan's House or Sail
Loft.
Many of the other old buildings like the Officers' Quarters, the Pitch & Tar and Engineer's Office, the old Guard House, the Blacksmith's Workshop, The Master Shipwright's House and the SAW Pit Shed all house new businesses, many still providing essential marine services that have been vital to the area for centuries. There's a surprising amount going on here!
One aspect of the park that cannot be overlooked is environmental preservation and conservation. Many areas are both beautiful and fragile - like the reef and shore area of Indian Creek where many coral reef fish and crayfish live and breed - the mangroves plays home to a variety of birds including herons, egrets, pelicans and the magnificent Frigate or Man 'o War Bird. At sunlight you can catch the flight of the Cobb's Cross egret colony as they move to their feeding grounds in one big, silent wave. Mamora Reef is well known for its beautiful corals, and the odd-looking cacti at Snapper Point make excellent photos.
Other buildings to make a mental note of are The Blockhouse - a super stronghold designed to withstand prolonged sieges - The Officer's Quarters, The Parade Ground and the Powder Magazine - all of which can be found on the way up to the equally fascinating and pleasant Shirley Heights Lookout.
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The Marina at Nelson's Dockyard
Ruins of the Sail Loft
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