Fort Hamilton

Fort Hamilton was built in the 1870s to protect the harbour and to form a line of defence for the western Royal Naval Dockyard.   The upper levels and battlements have been landscaped with lawns, and the site is accessible across a wooden bridge.  There are ramparts and cannons, which have in fact never been fired.  Long tunnels were dug so that the ammunition could be replenished, and also lead to a 30 foot deep moat which surrounds the fort.  Once a dry moat forming a front line of protection, it is today the site of tropical gardens, with many varieties of giant bamboo and fern.  Birds, frogs and lizards live concealed behind plants climbing up the walls.  There is a narrow but walkable trail around this moat, and fine views over the harbour below.