Paget Parish: An Insider's Guide to this Central Gem

Paget may be one of Bermuda's most overlooked parishes, but it's also one of its most rewarding. This is your insider's guide to experiencing Paget the Bermudian way.

Spend an Afternoon in the Botanical Gardens

The Bermuda Botanical Gardens isn't the kind of garden where you spend hours identifying rare flowers. Free to visit and open year-round, it's one of Bermuda's favourite places to stretch your legs, enjoy a walk, or simply relax on the open lawns.

As you wander, you'll spot collections of Bermuda's endemic and native plants and a colourful Gombey mural, a favourite spot for photos. Families love the wide-open spaces where children can run freely or explore the roots of the big banyan tree, while parents enjoy the slower pace.

At the heart of the gardens sits  Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art. The museum is an integral part of Bermuda’s art scene and showcases works inspired by Bermuda's landscapes, culture, and history, featuring both local artists and internationally renowned painters who found inspiration on the island. After exploring the galleries, take a look around the adjoining Tuck Shop for unique island gifts, and head next door to The Botanist Café & Garden Lounge for coffee, brunch, or cocktails overlooking the gardens, it's the perfect way to round off a leisurely afternoon.

Throughout the year, the Botanical Gardens also become a community gathering place. From November through June, the popular Bermuda Farmers' Market brings together local growers, artisans, and food vendors every Saturday morning, while April's Agricultural Exhibition transforms the grounds into one of Bermuda's most anticipated annual events, celebrating the island's farming traditions, horticulture, and community spirit.

Local tip: Visit on a Saturday morning between November and June to browse the Farmers' Market before enjoying brunch at Botanist Café. It's one of the most local experiences you'll find in Bermuda. 

Walk, Swim and Snorkel at Elbow Beach

For many Bermudians, Elbow Beach is part of their daily routine.

In the mornings you'll find runners and walkers enjoying the sound of the waves before the day begins. The offshore reefs also make Elbow Beach one of Bermuda's favourite spots for snorkelling and shore diving, with plenty to discover just a short swim from the sand. 

Whether you're there for exercise or simply to enjoy one of Bermuda’s longest stretch of beach, Elbow Beach always feels welcoming.

Local tip: The public section of Elbow Beach is in the middle, surrounded either side by hotel and private beach clubs. Make sure to bring your own food and drink and towels as there are no vendors on site.  

Find Paget's Secret Boardwalk

Beyond the main roads, Paget reveals some of Bermuda's most peaceful landscapes.

The winding Lovers' Lanes are lined with cedar trees and old limestone walls and beautifull colourful houses, offering quiet walks through neighbourhoods that have changed little over the years. At the top of the lane, Paget Marsh Nature Reserve protects one of Bermuda's oldest natural ecosystems, with boardwalks leading through native woodland and one of the island's best spots for birdwatching.

This is another great way to spend time in Bermuda without spending a penny.  

Local tip: Visit after rainfall when the marsh feels especially lush and birds are most active, but make sure to wear bug repellent.  

Take the Scenic Way to Hamilton

The Pink Ferry offers one of Bermuda's most scenic commutes, gliding across Hamilton Harbour past colourful waterfront homes, sailboats, and quiet coves.  

If you're staying in Paget, it's one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to experience both the parish and the city.

Local tip: Sit outside on the front of the old cast iron ferry for a great view of the waterside houses that line Harbour Road. 

Eat Your Way Around Paget

Paget may be peaceful, but its food scene is full of personality.

Start your morning with breakfast at Latte’s Café. Enjoy a fresh brew along with a handcrafted menu featuring warm pastries, flavourful sandwiches and fresh baked treats.  

For lunch try Paraquet Restaurant, a Bermudian favourite that's welcomed generations of locals. For a treat on a hot day make sure to try one of their famous milkshakes.  

As evening arrives, enjoy dinner overlooking the harbour at Aurora, or settle into the timeless elegance of Fourways Inn. For something a little more relaxed, Thyme offers fresh seasonal dishes in a hilltop setting.

Local tip: There are not many places open for late night food, but Ice Queen in Paget is the best place to get a late night ‘greez’. Some people might say, you haven’t really experienced Bermuda until you’ve had the wahoo nuggets from Ice Queen.  

Paget reminds you that the best way to experience Bermuda isn't to rush from place to place. It's to slow down, take the scenic route, and enjoy every moment in between.