A glimpse into Old Bermuda.
The East End of Bermuda is where the island's story began. Home to the historic town of St. George's, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, our eastern parishes offer a charming blend of history, natural beauty, and a slower, more deliberate pace of life.
Stroll winding streets, listen to the gentle murmur of island life, and feel a palpable sense of the island's rich past. It's a place where you can wander through quaint, time-worn alleys and feel the weight of history under your feet, while still enjoying the energy of a living, breathing community. The East End is perfect for those who want to explore beyond the typical tourist spots and discover the authentic heart of Bermuda.
St. George’s: History Comes Alive
St. George's is more than just a parish; it's the cradle of Bermuda's history. This charming destination is a living museum, where you can walk the same lanes that sailors and settlers have trod for centuries. It's a place where every building tells a story and the past feels incredibly present.
Lose yourself in the winding alleys of the town, where each street name boasts a completely unique story, discovering hidden courtyards and colourful houses with names like "Deliverance" and "Revenge." Don't miss a visit to St. Peter's Church, the oldest continually used Anglican church in the Western Hemisphere, where the tombstones in the graveyard read like a who's who of Bermuda's founding families. For a true taste of local flavour, stop by one of the charming restaurants and strike up a conversation with a friendly local. They'll be happy to tell you about the town's history and might even share a secret or two.
Explore the Unfinished Church, a breathtaking ruin that looks like something out of a fairytale. Once intended as a replacement for St. Peter’s Church, construction was never completed and today, this site is one of our island’s most iconic wedding venues. Then, head to Tobacco Bay, a gorgeous cove with dramatic rock formations and crystal-clear water that's perfect for snorkelling. But the real hidden gem here is the fact that many locals still have their own stories about this place, from secret fishing spots to tales of pirate treasure. Spend a few hours here, and you might just get a glimpse into the Bermuda that existed long before visitors arrived.
Another interesting spot to visit – and where you’ll most likely arrive on our island for the very first time – is St. David’s Island. The former home of Kindley Air Force Base during the Second World War is now the site of L. F. Wade International Airport. Step even further back in island history with a visit to Carter House Museum, believed to be one of the oldest Bermuda vernacular farmhouses still surviving today. Exhibits tell the stories of whaling, fishing, boat building, farming, and sailing in and around Bermuda hundreds of years ago. Many St. David’s Islanders trace their history to Native American tribal groups in the eastern United States – just one of the many important cultural influences shaping today’s Bermuda.
Hamilton: Adventure Awaits
Hamilton Parish is a quiet gem that offers a unique mix of natural wonders and hidden havens. It's a place where you can find secluded coves, ancient caves, and a genuine sense of tranquility.
Nature lovers will want to explore the breathtaking Crystal and Fantasy Caves, where you can descend into a world of incredible stalactites and stalagmites formed over millions of years. The crystal-clear water in the underground lakes is so pristine, it feels like you're floating in a dream. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the lush greenery of the nearby Tom Moore's Jungle, a local favourite that feels a world away from the rest of the island. You'll hear the melodic calls of kiskadees, our native yellow-breasted birds, as you meander through the moss-covered paths.
For a real taste of local life, spend a lazy afternoon at Shelly Bay Beach, a shallow and calm beach that is a beloved haunt for Bermudians because of its convenient location and easy access. It’s the kind of place where you’ll see families picnicking, kids splashing in the surf, and friendly Bermudians sharing stories under the sun.
Smith’s: Bermuda’s Natural Side
Tucked between the bustling center of the island and the historic East End, Smith's Parish is a peaceful escape with a touch of authentic local life. This inviting parish embraces you with its relaxing atmosphere, rolling hills, and picturesque, often secluded, beaches – ideal for slowing down and savouring every minute on our island.
Here, you can wander through the beloved Spittal Pond Nature Reserve, a stunning natural oasis where you might spot our graceful longtails nesting in the cliffs and marvel at the famous "Checkerboard" rock formations. If your visit aligns with spring, you just might glimpse magnificent humpbacks on their migratory journeys from the serene cliffside footpaths – it's a truly humbling experience. Pop into the Verdmont Museum, a perfectly preserved 18th-century home that offers a fascinating peek into the lives of Bermuda's early settlers.
For a quintessential Bermuda afternoon, make your way to John Smith's Bay Beach. This picturesque pink-sand stretch is named after the famous English explorer, Captain John Smith, who surveyed Bermuda in the early 1600s – talk about a historical hangout! It's a cherished favourite among Bermudians for its wonderfully calm, clear waters and laid-back atmosphere, making it perfect for a quiet swim, some easy snorkeling, or a leisurely picnic. You’ll often find families enjoying the sunshine and the gentle waves, alongside a lifeguard ensuring everyone has a safe outing. This beach also offers convenient public restrooms and changing facilities.
Explore Businesses from the Eastern Parishes
Our Parishes
Central Parishes
Nestled in the heart of Bermuda, the Central Parishes offer a lively mix of bustling city life and serene natural escapes.
Western Parishes
Come on over to Bermuda's West End, and get ready to discover a breathtaking landscape of dramatic cliffs, secluded coves, and some of the most unforgettable sunsets on the island.