Nestled on the eastern tip of Bermuda, St. George’s is a town that feels like stepping back in time. As the oldest continuously inhabited English settlement in the New World, its cobbled streets, pastel-colored buildings, and rich maritime history make it a must-visit destination. Whether you’re a history buff, a beach lover, or simply someone who enjoys exploring charming destinations, St. George’s has something for you.
While our Half-Island Tour of Bermuda doesn’t stop in St. George’s, our Full-Island Bermuda Day Tour does! So, if these picks for amazing things to do in our country’s former capital inspire you to visit, this is the excursion for you! Or you can always build one of our private custom tours in Bermuda, allowing you to see and do all the things that interest you the most.
Scroll down to get started on our choices for the best things to do in St. George’s, Bermuda. And if you have any questions for us at any point, please just contact us for the answers you need.
Experience the Ducking Stool Re-enactment in King’s Square
If you love history with a touch of theatrics, the Ducking Stool re-enactment in King’s Square on Ordnance Island is an event you won’t want to miss. This lively demonstration brings Bermuda’s colonial justice system to life in an entertaining and enlightening way.
During the 17th and 18th centuries, the ducking stool was used as a form of corrective punishment for wayward townsfolk, primarily for women accused of being “gossips” or “nags.” Yes, really! Today, costumed actors recreate these historical trials, often with a comedic twist, as an unfortunate “criminal” (usually a local volunteer) is sentenced.
The guilty person is then strapped to a chair at the end of a long wooden arm before being repeatedly dunked into the waters of St. George’s Harbour. The re-enactment provides an engaging way to learn about Bermuda’s past while enjoying a good laugh.
Keep in mind that the Ducking Stool re-enactment is a seasonal event that only takes place during the high season of April to October. During the 2024 season, ducking stool re-enactments took place every Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday at 1 pm, but be sure to check local schedules in advance for the most up-to-date information.
While in King’s Square, you can also try out the old stocks — a wooden device once used to restrain wrongdoers. They’re perfect for a fun photo opportunity! Then, for a different taste of our island’s heritage, make the short walk to Sweet P’s High Tea at Lili Bermuda Perfumery, one of our choices for the best places to do afternoon tea, Bermuda style.
Visit St. Peter’s Church and The Unfinished Church
St. George’s is home to some of Bermuda’s most fascinating architectural treasures, and few are more iconic than St. Peter’s Church and The Unfinished Church. Built all the way back in 1612, when the Virginia Company settled Bermuda, St. Peter’s Church is the oldest continuously used Anglican church outside of the British Isles.
As you step inside, you’ll be struck by its simple yet elegant wooden architecture, original cedar beams, and historic artifacts, including a hand-carved pulpit dating back to the 17th century. The church’s graveyard is equally intriguing, with a separate burial ground for enslaved individuals, providing a sobering glimpse into Bermuda’s complex history.
Just a short walk away, you’ll find the hauntingly beautiful Unfinished Church. Intended to replace St. Peter’s after hurricane damage in the 19th century, construction was halted due to funding issues and community disagreements. What remains today is a stunning, open-air Gothic ruin with towering stone arches and no roof, making it a favorite spot for photographers and visitors seeking a peaceful retreat. It’s a reminder that even unfinished stories can leave a lasting impact.
We also included a trip to the Unfinished Church in our list of the 10 best things to do in Bermuda!
Soak Up the Northern Coast: Tobacco Bay, Fort St. Catherine, and St. Catherine’s Beach
Bermuda’s crystal-clear waters and dramatic coastline are a paradise for beach lovers and history enthusiasts alike. The northern coast of St. George’s offers a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and historical intrigue.
Start at Tobacco Bay, one of our picks for Bermuda’s best beaches. This sheltered cove, named for the wild tobacco that once grew nearby, is known for its calm, shallow waters and unique rock formations, but not the famous vivid pink sand that blesses beaches on the southern shore. Tobacco Bay is ideal for snorkeling, with colorful fish swimming just a few feet from shore. The beach also has a lively vibe, with the Tobacco Bay Beach Club offering snacks, drinks, and beach rentals.
A short drive or scenic walk from Tobacco Bay brings you to Fort St. Catherine, a 17th-century fortress perched on the cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. This impressive stone fort played a key role in Bermuda’s coastal defense and now houses a museum filled with cannons, historic weaponry, and exhibits about the island’s military history. Walk through the tunnels, climb the ramparts, and take in breathtaking ocean views.
Right next to the fort lies St. Catherine’s Beach, also known as Gates Bay, a pristine stretch of white sand perfect for unwinding. Quieter than other beaches on the island, it’s a great spot for a peaceful swim or simply lounging under the sun. This east-facing beach is also one of the best spots on our island to catch a spectacular sunrise.
If our famous pink sand beaches are an absolute must on your trip, be sure to read our Guide to Bermuda’s Gorgeous Pink Sand Beaches when you have finished here.
Explore the City… It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site!
One of the best ways to experience St. George’s is to simply wander through its charming streets. The entire town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its well-preserved colonial architecture and historical significance.
Start at Water Street, where you’ll find quaint shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes. Many of the buildings here date back to the 17th century, giving you the feeling of walking through living history. Stop by Somers Wharf, a gorgeous dockside shopping center. Once a ship-building facility, the wharf is now home to welcoming shops selling clothes, souvenirs, gifts, home decor, and various arts and crafts.
History lovers will enjoy The Tucker House Museum, a restored 18th-century home that provides insight into the lives of Bermuda’s early settlers. The old ground-floor kitchen was once a barber shop run by Joseph Rainey. Born into slavery, Rainey went on to become the first black person to serve in the United States House of Representatives and the second black person to serve in the United States Congress.
As you explore, you’ll notice that St. George’s seamlessly blends the old with the new. Whether you’re admiring the centuries-old architecture, chatting with friendly locals, or stumbling upon hidden alleyways, every corner of this town has a story to tell.
Discover Bermuda with Our Half-Island and Full-Island Tours!
We hope you’ve found our picks for amazing things to do in St. George’s, Bermuda, inspiring! Now that you know a little more about this part of our island, let’s start planning adventures further afield. Find out more about our Half-Island Tour of Bermuda and Full-Island Bermuda Day Tour and see which one best suits you.
If you have any pre-booking questions for us, please don’t hesitate to contact us for more information.
