Besides its beaches, Bermuda has a huge array of cultural hotspots to explore, from historic docks to country houses, with a few quirks of character in between!
With cars driving on the left and red post boxes on street corners, Bermuda can feel almost like home for many of our visitors. However, these Atlantic islands have their own unique charm, and with plenty of sunshine they certainly can’t be mistaken for Britain!
While many people come for its stunning beaches and amazing weather, Bermuda is also a fantastic cultural hotspot, with colourful colonial architecture, sumptuous historic gardens and houses and diverse mix of influences. If you’re looking to venture beyond the pink sands and explore the heritage of the islands, here are our team’s top picks to help you get the most out of your holidays in Bermuda.
Hamilton
The island’s capital, dating back to the first settlers in 1609, is naturally the first port of call for visitors to Bermuda, and no stay would be complete without soaking up its beautiful pastel-coloured houses and the relics of its British colonial past. Easy to get around by foot, make sure to explore the Royal Naval Dockyards and Fort Hamilton, as well as wandering down King Street and St George’s. To really make the most of Hamilton’s history and laidback atmosphere, why not try staying at Rosedon Hotel – the city is only a 10 minute stroll away from this lovely colonial-era house.
Paget Parish
At the centre of the island, Paget Parish is surrounded by luscious beaches and the tranquillity of Paget Marsh. It is also home to many country houses, owned by the National Trust and well worth exploring. You may notice that the houses have particular architectural features, such as low, curved limestone walls at each side of the front steps. These are known locally as “the welcoming arms”, and you can be sure to expect a warm welcome on your visits. Coco Beef Resort nearby offers equally warm welcomes; set in sculpted gardens beside a pink coral beach, you will be in the lap of luxury.
Verdmont House
Owned by the National Trust, Verdmont House in Smiths Parish is the most sumptuous country house you can visit on the island. A Georgian manor virtually unchanged since it was built in 1710, it has beautiful rose gardens and a fascinating museum containing collections of furniture and portraits, ideal for parents who are looking for a spot of history for children on their family summer holidays. In Bermuda, you’re never far from discovering hidden stories that can delight people of all ages.
Other Quirks to Watch Out For
Watch out for Bermuda’s unique way of speaking and stock of phrases, somewhere between British, American and Caribbean. If you’re looking for entertainment and want to find out from a local what sorts of things are happening in Bermuda right now, it might go like this: “wopnin in Bermy nahw?”
If you’re interesting in soaking up some Bermudan culture, why not get in touch with one of our team instead? We know all the best places to visit and stay on The Rock (the local’s name for the island) that carry the wow-factor – or, should we say, “chingas-factor”?! Give one of the team a call and find out what else is on offer with our holidays in Bermuda.
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