A Complete Guide to Hamilton City, Bermuda

 
 
 

About Hamilton

 
Capital of Bermuda since 1815, Hamilton is a small, vibrant and a friendly city. It's the cultural heart and the commercial hub of the island. For being the main container port in the island, Hamilton is also the center of shipping trade in Bermuda. 
 
Hamilton City and Harbor, Bermuda 
Hamilton City, Bermuda 
Photo: Kansasphoto, flickr, cc by 2.0 
 
Hamilton City is located centrally in the island and in Pembroke parish facing the Hamilton Harbor (the tapering water area between Pembroke and Paget parishes). Visit this Parish Map to see location of Hamilton City. 
 
Front Street runs along the water edge and the pastel colored facade of the buildings lining it is the first part of the city seen by the cruise ship passengers as they come to shore in Hamilton. Front Street is the life and soul of Hamilton City and center of all the main activities. 
 
 
 
This is where most of the island's glittering retail shops, great restaurants and many other commercial establishments like banks and insurance companies are located. And expectedly, this is the busiest place in the island. 
 
Location of Hamilton City 
Source: Grutness, cc by-sa 3.0 
 
Hamilton was formally established in 1793 and named after the then Governor of Bermuda Henry Hamilton. It was then a town. 
 
For more than a hundred years before that, there were deliberations amongst the islanders about having a more centrally located area which would aid in commerce and trade. 
 
With the rise in population and the subsequent arrival of Governor Hamilton in the picture, things were hastened up. He gave his support to the local merchants and was well liked by them. 
 
The sheltered harbor that the new location afforded, was a great boost in trade and commerce. It later became a thoroughfare for trade vessels and their goods that came from as far down south as the West Indies. 
 
With this explosion in import and export business, it was only fitting that Hamilton become the capital. In 1815 it became the capital of Bermuda which was relocated from the old Town of St. George. And in 1897, Hamilton became a City. 
 
Front Street, Hamilton City 
Front Street Bermuda 
Photo: Darryl Brooks, Shutterstock 
 
In the year 1852, Hamilton saw the beginning of a new kind of business opportunity present itself - tourism. The number of people visiting had reached a slump and this was mainly because lack of any decent hotel. Even cruise ships were beginning to discontinue their trips to the island for this reason. 
 
The Hamilton Hotel (which is today the City Hall car parking) was then built and opened to public in the year 1854 with just thirty six guest rooms. It continued to be built upon and extended until it could accommodate six hundred guests. 
 
Unfortunately one of the largest fires of the time saw the hotel razed to the ground in the December of 1955. The direction of the wind however was such, that the rest of the city was spared. 
 
The city of Hamilton is steeped in history and if you take the walking tours the city has to offer or even self guided tours especially in North Hamilton, you can experience a journey which takes you back in time and get a glimpse of the rich history of the city. 
 
Today the city is 185 acres in size which is considerably larger than what it had started off as and has a population of about 1800 residents. 
 
Most of the working population here come from the outlying parishes by ferry, car or bus. The city of Hamilton is one of the smallest capital cities in the world. 
 

A Short Video

 
 

Hamilton Attractions

 
You will find the Visitors Service Center at the west-end of Front street and located next to the Hamilton ferry terminal. This is a good place to collect useful pocket maps and brochures for free showing you the main tourist attractions in Hamilton and rest of Bermuda. 
 
The city of Hamilton boasts of quaint historical architecture, edifices, museums and churches in one breath. There are also forts and war memorials, as well as cinemas, beautifully landscaped gardens, markets, beaches and plazas. 
 
Below is the list of the top things to see & do in Hamilton Bermuda. Go through the individual links in blue to get complete details of each attraction with pictures. 
 
During the summer, on every Wednesday evenings, Front Street is lit up and becomes a bustling festive venue. Many vendors on their colorful dresses set up stalls and sell various items including homemade food, artwork and craft, and many other articles. 
 
Gombey dancers take to the street with bands playing loud music. Visitors, locals and kids all flock around and chat with each other. 
 
It's a great occasion to get the flavor of isaland's traditions and culture. During the Harbor Nights, you can also see the Beat Retreat Ceremony where Bermuda Pipe Band and Corps of Bermuda Regiment, march along the Front Street in full military dress to recreate centuries-old ceremony. 
 
Located in Church street, you won't miss this bright white building with a painted clock on the front facade. It serves several functions from the same building. 
 
Bermuda City Hall   Arts Center 
Photo: Charles Lewis / Shutterstock 
 
Corporation of Hamilton has its office here. There is a theatre hall which is often bustling with performing arts from both amateur and professional artists. It also houses Bermuda National Gallery and Bermuda Society of Arts. 
 
Address: 17 Church Street, City of Hamilton, Bermuda. 
 
Houses in the City Hall, it showcases Bermuda's national arts and has permanent exhibits that include paintings, sculptures, masks, and photographs. 
 
The gallery has collections of 17th and 18th century European paintings by such artists as Joshua Reynolds and Thomas Gainsborough. 
 
Located at the City Hall, It displays and sells creative artwork like paintings, sculptures and photographs of local artists. City Hall is often busy with performing arts like theatrical plays, orchestral performances, dance and recitals etc. 
 
Many international acts are also performed here. The Bermuda society of arts is also known as The People's Gallery. 
 
Fort Hamilton was built in the 1870s by the British in order to thwart enemy attacks and protect the Hamilton harbor. However, the huge canons that were installed at the fort, never had to be fired. 
 
Fort Hamilton Bermuda 
 
The moats have been converted into lush gardens. Canons are still on display. The fort offers spectacular harbor views, especially when cruise ships are in port. 
 
Address: Happy Valley Road, Hamilton City. 
 
Close by, there is the Bermuda Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity, consecrated in 1911 after a fire destroyed the previous edifice in 1884. The style is early English, with a tower rising 143 ft. and provides a nice view of Hamilton city. 
 
Bermuda Cathedral 
Bermuda Cathedral 
 
Address: Church Street, Hamilton City, Bermuda. 
 
This Catholic church was built in 1932 to replace a smaller church and now boasts of the largest weekly attendance in the island. 
 
Address: 29 Church St, Hamilton, Bermuda 
 
BUEI is involved in marine research, and has great ocean exhibits, artifacts and rare collections spanning across 3 floors. Its main attraction is the Ocean Discovery Center. 
 
You can learn about how the island Bermuda was formed centuries back, see shell collections, coins encrusted with corals, take simulated dive into the ocean and encounter many marine life. There is also an advanced technology-based interactive ocean environment to know about marine creatures. 
 
BUEI Ocean Exhibit 
 
And there are shipwreck gallery, treasure room showcasing treasures collected from shipwrecks. You can even explore the mystery of infamous Bermuda Triangle using one of the latest interactive exhibits. BUEI is a great attraction for families and kids. 
 
Address: 40 Crow Lane, off Eastern Broadway, Hamilton City, Pembroke. 
 
Located behind the Hamilton ferry terminal, This is a nice park having a great view of Hamilton harbor and ideal for relaxing. 
 
Address: Point Pleasant Road, Hamilton, Bermuda 
 
An attractive city park. Other than many types of trees and shrubs, there is also a beautiful band stand here imported from Scotland. 
 
Victoria Park Bermuda 
Source: Wikimedia Commons 
 
Address: Behind the City Hall and the Main Bus Stop Terminal of Hamilton City. 
Victoria Street | Cedar Avenue, Hamilton, Bermuda 
 
This is a beautiful city park on Queen Street and located behind the Bermuda National Library. It has many shaded trees, great walkways and wooden benches. 
 
Queen Elizabeth park Bermuda 
Source: Wikimedia Commons 
 
Address: 9 Queen Street, Hamilton, Bermuda 
 
Barr's Bay Park is a nice waterfront area overlooking the Hamilton harbor and has great historical significance. This is where the slaves from the ship Enterprise disembarked in 1835 and became free for ever. 
 
Address: Pitts Bay Road, Hamilton, Bermuda 
 
This is a recreational space on Front Street and located beside the ferry Terminal. A great place to relax, have snacks and beverages. 
 
Address: Front Street, Hamilton, Bermuda 
 

The 'Bermuda' Structure

 
A 40-foot long and prominent marquee structure with 'Bermuda' sign has been installed at the waterfront in Hamilton city creating an iconic landmark. The paintings in the letters depict the culture, heritage and traditions of the island along with storied history. 
 
Bermuda Sign in Hamilton 
 
This is a great place for a photo shoot. You can also experience Augmented Reality by scanning a QR code with your phone. 
 
This structure has been part of Hamilton's Vivid Public Art Initiative in which the Corporation of Hamiltion has installed over 25 murals and artwork all across the city. 
 

Bermuda House of Assembly (or Session House)

 
This is where Bermuda's Parliament sessions are held. It also has the Supreme Court in the ground floor. It is worth a mention here that Bermuda's Parliament is the oldest in the British Commonwealth. 
 
Bermuda House of Assembly 
 
Address: 21 Parliament Street, City of Hamilton, Bermuda 
 
Cabinet Building is where Bermuda's cabinet sessions are held with all the ministers and key officials. 
 
Address: 105 Front Street, Hamilton City, Bermuda. 
 
Cenotaph is a replica of the monument in Whitehall, London. This is a memorial for the war heroes who died in the world wars. 
 
Bermuda Cenotaph 
Photo: James Willamor, flickr, cc by-sa 2.0 
 
Address: Cabinet Grounds, 105 Front Street, Hamilton City, Bermuda 
 
A memorial at the Cabinet Office grounds east of Cenotaph dedicated to the Bermudians who served during the first and second world wars. 
 
Address: Cabinet Office Grounds, East of Cenotaph, 105 Front Street, Hamilton City, Bermuda. 
 
This old post office is named after the man who was appointed Bermuda's first Postmaster General in 1821. The little post office is still maintained much like the way Perot kept it... neat with simple furnishing. Perot Post Office is located on Queen street. 
 
Perot Post Office Bermuda 
Photo: Robyn Fleming, flickr, cc by 2.0 
 
Address: 11 Queen Street, Hamilton. 
 
The museum is located in front of Queen Elizabeth Park on Queen Street. It has great collections of rare historical documents, history books, silver collections, furniture, etc. 
 
Bermuda National Library is housed in the same 2-storied building that houses Bermuda Historical Society Museum. 
 
This metal structure was once used by Bermuda police to regulate traffic at the junction of Front Street and Queen street. 
 
Location: Junction of Front and queen streets. 
 
This is a beautiful parkland located on the north shore at Spanish Point and only 2 miles away from Hamilton city center. Other than the park with many trees and plantations, the site has a lovely shallow beach, nature trails and a historical building. 
 
Admiralty House Park, Bermuda 
 
You can get great views of the north shore from here. Admiralty House Park is also a very popular spot for cliff jumping. There are also underground caves here.  
 
A landmark in Hamilton City and located close to the Hamilton Ferry Terminal, the bank once had a rare collection of coins that were on public display. It is now part of HSBC Group and is one of the largest commercial banks in Bermuda. 
 
If you happen to be in Bermuda between June to November, visit the City Market at Botanical Gardens (in Paget). It's quite near Hamilton. It sets up on Saturday mornings.  
 
Smalltime Vendors sell vegetables and all kinds of homemade food. You can sample many items including Bermuda honey, banana breads, lemongrass creams and more. It's a great place to meet the locals and feel what a typical Bermudian market is all about. 
 
There are plenty of sporting and other recreational activities in Hamilton City and its surrounding Pembroke parish including Tennis, Health and Fitness centers, Fishing, Horse Carriage rides, boat tours, Scuba Diving and lot more. 
 
Check out the above link to get detailed information. 
 

Hotels in Hamilton

 
Hamilton City is the place to stay if you want all the conveniences at one place as well as the easiest access to the rest of the island. Interestingly, most hotels here are not within the proper city limits, although there are several that are at the fringes of the main city. 
 
Hamilton Princess and Beach Club (The Pink Building) 
Hamilton Princess Hotel 
Photo: slgckgc, flickr, cc by 2.0 
 
Once there were a few hotels right within the main city... this was when agricultural production used to be shipped from the cruise port in Hamilton and trade was thriving. 
 
The Hamilton Hotel opened in 1861 on Church Street but got burnt down in 1955 and was never rebuilt... this hotel was instrumental in initiating tourism in Bermuda. 
 
Then there was the old Canadian Hotel built in 1918 on Reid Street. This was the first time when a black man James Richards got the license to run a hotel in Bermuda. The hotel remained in a derelict condition for several years and was finally demolished in 2019. 
 
There are several good reasons to stay at Hamilton. Many great restaurants and shops are located in Hamilton. The central bus terminal and the main ferry terminal are also located here that connect to most parts of the island. 
 
And there is no better place for nightlife in Bermuda than the Hamilton City. And not surprisingly, some of the best hotels of Bermuda including the landmark hotel Hamilton Princess & Beach Club are located here as the city is the island's main business and financial hub. 
 
There are numerous hotels of all types in Pembroke parish where Hamilton City is located including budget, boutique, mid-priced and luxury hotels. 
 
However you won't find a beach-side hotel here. Most hotels are in garden settings or have nice views of Hamilton harbor. 
 
A landmark hotel here is the Hamilton Princess & Beach Club - a 5 Star Luxury class hotel by the harbor side with its own marina and beach club. 
 
This is the only hotel in Hamilton which has its private beach located at Southampton and complete with a beach bar. Guests are transferred to the beach by the hotel's own boat. 
 
Rosedon and Royal Palms are two other small yet luxury class and elegant boutique hotels located in garden settings. And there are several excellent budget stays in Hamilton such as Oxford House, Robin's Nest etc. 
 
Visit Hamilton Hotels to know about the great hotels in and around Hamilton City. 
 

Food & Drinks

 
Until about the 1930s, Bermudian food was mostly locally produced. However now, most of it is imported and then resold here at appreciated prices. Hence foodstuffs turn out to be quite expensive especially when customs or import duty is applied on particular items. 
 
For instance, after March until September, the local spiny lobster (which is quite expensive by American standards) is not available and if at all you find lobsters on a menu, it's the imported variety of Maine or Canadian lobster. 
 
Fish Sandwich in raisin bread 
Fish Sandwich 
 
Restaurants and eating outlets in Bermuda have annual unannounced inspections for food standards and hygiene and most of their eating-out spots achieve high grades. 
 

Local Cuisine

 
If you want to explore the local traditional food, then you can have plenty to satisfy your palette. Bermudian cuisine is ideally not for the calorie or cholesterol conscious. But, when it comes to satisfying your taste buds, there are plenty of local culinary options. 
 
Codfish breakfast is almost like a staple for Bermudians, particularly on Sundays. It is served with salted codfish, bananas, boiled eggs, avocado slices, red sauce, etc. Codfish cakes are also popular in the island. 
 
The island is known for making awesome fish sandwiches from the local catches like Rockfish or Wahoo. Some eateries specialize on this. 
 
Food at Pickled Onion 
Photo: Pickled Onion 
 
Peas and Rice, Jerk Chicken, Spiny Lobsters (in season), Rum Cakes, etc, are other popular local preparations. And, when it comes to cocktails, the island has plenty of innovative drinks like the rum based Swizzles, Dark 'n Stormy, etc. 
 
Read: The traditional food and drinks of Bermuda to know about it all and find out which are the best restaurants and eateries where you can get authentic local food & drinks. 
 

Food Tours

 
In fact, a food tour is a great way to sample local and authentic fares and it also gives you an opportunity to explore and learn interesting facts about local cuisine, culture and people. 
 
There are food tours in Hamilton (walking or by minibus) covering delicious traditional and international food and drinks tasting from seven different food venues in the city. 
 
The tour guide further enhances the trip by filling you in on the quintessential historical, architectural and cultural facts about the places you visit, making it a rather enriching experience. 
 
Read: Guided food tours in Bermuda for complete details on food tours. 
 

Restaurants in Hamilton

 
There are a number of restaurants on Front Street. Several of them have balconies with wonderful view of the Hamilton harbor. 
 
The harbor looks spectacular at night when the lamps on the banks are illuminated and lights reflect on the water. As you wine & dine, you can watch the boats anchored on the harbor and the busy street right below. 
 
One of such harbor facing restaurants with a balcony is Pickled Onion which serves Bermudian and International cuisine. Harry's (serving excellent steaks) and Harbourfront (serving Italian, seafood and Sushi) are two other restaurants with great harbor views. 
 
Mad Hatters located at the western part of Hamilton serves European cuisine. Although it doesn't have a harbor view, the ambience with many different kinds of funny hats hanging on the walls, and interactions with locals make it a fun and a friendly place. 
 
Of course, there are plenty more eateries, cafes, bars, pubs and restaurants in Hamilton including on Reid Street, Church Street, at Washington Mall, etc. 
 
Visit Hamilton Restaurants to get a list with reviews of almost all the well known restaurants and bars in Hamilton and Pembroke parish. And here is a dining map showing location of the well-known restaurants in Hamilton: The Hamilton Dining Map 
 
Things to note 
  • Other than in-house restaurants in hotels, most are closed on public holidays. You can call them in advance to find out if they are open on a specific day/time. 
  •  
  • Dress code: No eateries have a specific dress code for breakfast and lunch, though for dinner some dining venues might expect their male patrons to be dressed formally in jackets/ blazers and women in appropriate evening attire. 
  •  
    Over time, increasingly only fewer restaurants impose such dress codes. Except for some fine-dining venues, most these days accept smart casuals. It is a good idea to inquire about this when you make a call for table reservation. 
     
  • You can look out for Early-bird dinners (if you are willing to eat dinner between 5.30 and 6.30pm) if you want discounts on your dinner bill. 
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  • Gratuities- most restaurants add 17 percent to the bill as a standard practice 
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  • Smoking in public places including bars, restaurants and hotels on the island is an offence. 
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  • Vegetarian-only restaurants are scarce on the island, vegetarian or even vegan dishes are offered by several restaurants that serve non-vegetarian dishes as well. 
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  • You will likely struggle to find Kosher food in Bermuda. For advices on kosher food, you can contact the Jewish Community of Bermuda (75 St. John's Road Pembroke, Bermuda, Email: [email protected]) which is a small Jewish charity run by volunteers. 
  •  
  • Payment here is only in Bermuda or US dollars, no other currency is accepted. You can find out before dining at a particular restaurant which international credit cards are accepted. Most accept Master and Visa cards. Travelers checks are not accepted. 
  •  

    Nightlife in Hamilton

     
    There are plenty of options including nightclubs, bars and pubs, and also performing arts like ballet, pop/rock and musical concerts that are organized at different venues in Hamilton, more so during the summer months. 
     
    Front Street itself is full of cafés, Jazz clubs, sports bars, nightclubs, and venues many of which have live bands and dancing during high season. All of these usually operate until late night. 
     
    There are several great venues to pick from. You can spend a weekend evening at Bermuda Bistro At The Beach with lively dance, quiz, food and drinks in plenty. 
     
    The highlight is the five giant screens featuring a current sport ... you can just soak in the camaraderie around you and enjoy to your heart's content. 
     
    Alternatively, you can enjoy the live entertainment at The Pickled Onion with a glass of cocktail. Then there is Cafe Cairo which the name suggests has an Egyptian theme complete with hookah, dance and cuisine. A great attraction here is the open terrace overlooking the Hamilton Harbor. 
     
    Visit Bermuda Nightlife for complete details. 
     

    Hamilton Tours

     
     

    Guided Tours

     
    Viator offers a number of tours that includes Hamilton City along with other great attractions. You can get the details, rates and book online using the following button. 
     
    Rates by Viator 
     

    Boat Tours

     
    Boat tours are a great way to admire the beautiful coastline and explore the breathtaking scenes, marine life, coral reefs and other smaller islands around the Hamilton city. 
     
    Reef Explorer Boat Bermuda 
    Photo: Reef Explorer Bermuda 
     
    Some boat tours offer combine water activities with sightseeing such as snorkeling, kayaking, jet-skiing and even fishing. There are also glass bottom boat tours and sunset cruises with  a kind hospitality onboard the vessels that is so unique to the island's culture. 
     
    Visit Bermuda boating and sailing tours for complete information on water-based tours, learn about the best tour operators and book tours that you like. 
     

    Self-Guided Walking Tours

     
    A great way to explore the City of Hamilton and its outskirts is by taking a self guided walking tour and explore the places yourself. You will need half-a-day or a full day depending on how much time you want to spend at the places. 
     
    Once you know the sequence and directions, you can easily visit Perot Post Office, National Library, Historical Society Museum, City Hall & Art Center, National Library, several lovely parks, the historic Fort Hamilton, etc. 
     
    Go through The guide to Hamilton City Tours for complete details of self guided and guided tours of Hamilton covering all its important tourist places. 
     
    If your legs are tiring and you need some rest, or like to have your packed lunch, then check out the Parks and Places to relax in Hamilton
     

    Whale Watching Tours

     
    During March-April you can do a whale watching boat tour too. Watching the majestic creatures in the vast Atlantic is a sight to behold. Around this time, thousands of humpback whales migrate to the North Atlantic waters from the Caribbean for feeding. 
     
    You can take a group boat tour and head to the open waters of the ocean where you can watch the gigantic mammals either from the deck or through glass bottomed vessels. 
     
    Several private boat operators as well as BUEI offer whale watching tours in season. Go through Whale watching in Bermuda for details. 
     

    Glow Worm Tours

     
    You can watch a nature's spectacle on certain nights during May through November soon after a full moon night. The glow worms create a circle of lights just above the ocean surface during their mating dance creating an unbelievable display.  
     
    While you can see the glow worms at play from certain points on the shoreline, it is better to take an organized boat tour at nights. 
     
    Go through The Glow worms and their mating dance for details about what you can expect to see and the best ways to watch the show. 
     

    Other Tour Options

     
    While you can visit most of Hamilton sites on foot, you can also avail a horse carriage ride - there is nothing more romantic than a horse drawn carriage taking a stately route of Hamilton City. Horse carriages are usually available on Front Street. 
     
    Another good option is to take the Train Trolley ride with audio commentary. The train trolley moves on wheels and takes you past various tourist sites within Hamilton and completes a circuit (the trolley rides can be booked onboard the cruise ships). 
     
    There are of course public buses to get around. Buses start from the Central Bus Terminal on Washington Street. You can take buses to various points within the city and the outskirts in Pembroke parish, as well as to other parishes in the island. 
     

    Shopping in Hamilton

     
    Hamilton city offers far more options for shopping than any other location on the island.  
     
    But note that customs duty rates on all imports in Bermuda is much higher than the USA, UK and Canada. Hence these goods that are brought into Bermuda are not duty free to either locals or visitors. So expect higher prices in brands and other imported stuff. 
     
    However, locally handcrafted items such as cedar work, pottery, glass items, hand made charms and jewelry, Bermuda made shorts, perfumes, vintage pieces and range of souvenirs and art and craft are coveted shopping items here. 
     
    Unlike in the Caribbean island, no off-the-shelf duty free liquor is available here other than at the international airport and a store in Royal Naval Dockyard cruise port. 
     
    Hamilton City is the main shopping center in Bermuda. Most of the renowned stores of the island have their main branches in Hamilton. Many of these shops are located on Front Street, and also on Reid Street, Queen Street and Burnaby Street. 
     
    Quite a few of them are located on Court Street as well in north Hamilton. But, do not miss out on the small roadside stalls on the narrow alleyways of Front Street that sell many kinds of small gifts, souvenirs and knick knacks. 
     
    There are also several shopping malls in Hamilton housing many types of boutique stores.  
     
    The most popular ones are the Washington Mall (Between Church Street and Reid Street), Walker Arcade (between Front Street and Reid Street), The Emporium (on Front Street and east of the Flagpole), Bermudiana Arcade and Windsor Place (both off Queen Street). 
     
    The shops in Hamilton are usually open between 9am to 5pm (Monday - Saturday). On Sundays and public holidays, most of the shops remain closed. 
     
    On Wednesdays during the Harbor Nights, many shops on Front Street, Reid Street and Queen Street remain open until 9pm and some even beyond that. 
     
    For innovative jewelry items, you can visit Alexandra Mosher Studio Jewelry (Address: 5 Front Street, Hamilton, Bermuda, Phone: 441 236-9009). 
     
    Their jewelry designs are inspired by the island's very own flora and fauna, art, architecture and culture which makes you remember your amazing stay here. 
     
    For gifts and souvenirs, you can head directly to Brown & Co (Address: 35 Front Street , City of Hamilton, Phone: +1 441 279 5443). This is an all encompassing department store on the island. 
     
    Brown and Co. is an exclusive provider of The Body Shop products, Thomas Sabo Jewellery and a wide range and variety of exclusive products under one roof. 
     
    The Hallmark Department and the Bookmart here are the island's largest gift and book shops respectively. It also has a wonderful cafe that overlooks the Harbor. They are one of the few stores in Bermuda who keep their doors open on Sundays. 
     
    The English Sports Shop (49 Front street, Hamilton, Phone: 1 441 295 2672) has been home to the very original Bermuda shorts since the year 1918. From ties, linen jackets and classic polo shirts to the iconic Bermuda shorts in an assortment of fun and classic colors, the store makes a great stop for fashionable men and ladies. 
     
    Visit Bermuda Shorts to know how the original Bermuda shorts originated and where can you get such authentic shorts on the island.  
     
    Harbor Nights provides a unique and fun opportunity to shoppers looking for authentic art and craft items with the island's finest artists coming together to display and sell their finest works. 
     
    Check out Hamilton Shopping Guide to know about most of the well known stores in Hamilton city, items they sell, location, address and contact information. 
     

    Transportation

     
     

    Hamilton Bus Service

     
    There are many bus routes that go out from the central bus terminal at Hamilton City, reach out to different parts of the island and return. The central bus terminal is located on Washington Street near City Hall & Art Center, Phone: +1 (441) 292 3851 
     
    A bus at Hamilton Bus Terminal, Bermuda 
    Bermuda Bus 
     
    Bus #7 takes the picturesque South Road and you can explore the lovely South Shore Beaches including the famous Horseshoe Bay Beach. Both bus #7 and #8 go all the way up to Royal Naval Dockyard at the west end. 
     
    Bus #1, 3, 10 and 11 can be taken to reach popular tourist sites such as Crystal & Fantasy Caves, Blue Hole Park and then reaching the historic town of St. George. 
     
    Bus #4 can be availed to explore several attractions around Hamilton such as Spanish Point and Admiralty House Park
     
    Go through Bermuda Bus Services for details on routes, schedules, fares etc.  
     

    Hamilton Ferry

     
    There are public ferries that connect Hamilton to several docks around the island including the ferry dock at Royal Naval Dockyard. The Blue Route direct ferry between Hamilton and the Dockyard takes only 20 minutes one way. 
     
    The Hamilton ferry terminal is located next to the HSBC Bank Head Office at the western end of Front Street. Visit Ferry Services for routes and schedule details.  
     

    Hamilton Taxi Stands

     
    There are several taxi stands in Hamilton. On Front Street, there is a taxi stand near the Gosling's Liquor Store and another one near Butterfield Bank. On Church Street there are a couple of taxi stands near the City Hall & Art Center. 
     
    To call a taxi from a Hamilton based agency, dial 441/295-4141 (for Bermuda Island Taxi, located at 39 King Street, Hamilton) or 441/292-4476 (for Bermuda Industrial Union Taxi Co-operative, located at 55 Dundonald Street, Hamilton). 
     

    Scooter & Electric Mini Car Rentals

     
    Oleander Cycles is a well known brand in Bermuda and has its bicycle and scooter rental outlet in Hamilton City at Gorham Road, Hamilton, Pembroke Parish (Tel: 441/295 0919). 
     
    Smatts Cycle Livery Limited is one of the oldest and family run businesses in Bermuda (established in 1960s). 
     
    They have a well-maintaied fleet of scooters (single and double seating). Their main office is located at Hamilton... 74 Pitts Bay Road, Hamilton. Phone: 441/295-1180. They are usually open 7 days a week, 8am-5pm. 
     
    Go through Scooter Rental Services for further details. 
     
    The company Current Vehicles operate from the premises of Hamilton Princess & Beach Club hotel property located on Pitts Bay Road. You can rent electric minicars (Renault Twizy) from them for a day or longer. 
     
    It has a capacity of two and operates on battery which you can charge at several charging stations that are scattered around the island. 
     
    Email: [email protected]; Hours: 9.00am - 5.30pm. You can also book online through their website www.currentvehicles.com. 
     
    Visit Electric Mini Car Rentals to get further details and options for renting such mini cars. 
     

    Provisions for Physically Challenged

     
    Unlike the rest of Bermuda, Hamilton City has some roads which have disabled friendly sidewalks. The Bermuda Tourism Authority (Ground Floor, Global House, 43 Church Street, Hamilton, Phone: 441 292 2023) provides factual information for the disabled. 
     
    It issues a "Blue Book" which serves as a traveler's manual to Bermuda. There is a separate manual called "Accessible Bermuda booklet" which can be requested by the physically challenged. 
     
    In the City of Hamilton, places like the Bermuda Visitors Services Center (on Front Street, near ferry terminal), City Hall, Bermuda National Gallery etc have facilities for the physically challenged with a curved disabled access outside and then with the help of an elevator access to all the floors inside. 
     
    City Hall has taken more initiative for the disabled than any other organization here and has at least 9 by Permit Only Handicapped Parking. There are other facilities too in the city that makes it wheelchair friendly like pedestrian crossings with pavements/sidewalks. 
     
    The two biggest banks here have ATM cash machines low enough. Also the Cathedral of the most Holy Trinity is accessible. 
     
    The Hamilton Ferry Terminal also has provisions for wheelchair bound visitors to travel by ferry. There are several restaurants in the city which are disabled friendly and are accessible to persons on wheelchairs.  
     
    Such restaurants include The Terrace (55 Front Street City of Hamilton); Red Carpet Bar and Restaurant (37 Reid Street, Hamilton); Port 'O' Call Restaurant (87 Front Street) etc. 
     
    Visit Bermuda for the physically challenged for more details on this. 
     

    Hamilton Weather

     
    Summer season starts in May and lasts until October... this is when the average air temperature rises to high 70s (F) and reaches its peak in August. Summer is also the high tourist season, large number of tourists arrive by cruise as well as by air. 
     
    Hamilton itself has a cruise port on Front Street. May through October is also when the maximum water based activities take place in the island. Humidity however rises to around 80% during summer and a hot sunny day can be quite uncomfortable for long walks. 
     
    From November onwards the temperature starts dropping and by December, it comes down to low 60s. This is the winter time which lasts until end of February. This is when the humidity also drops to low 70s (%). Winter time is great for outdoor activities. 
     
    But it rains the most during winter (although in short spurts). Average rainy days in winter can be 15-17 days in a month. 
     
    March and April are spring time and the temperature starts to rise again. Although it may not be an ideal time for a swim, spring time is also a great time to visit the island. 
     
    This is because there are hardly any tourists during the spring time, beaches are so serene and beautiful, and the hotel rates are still lower than the summer rates. There are no queues at the tourist sites, bus or ferry stops. 
     
    You can enjoy a relaxed and laid-back time and have so much more time and opportunities to interact with locals and enjoy their hospitality. 
     
    Check out Hamilton Weather to get complete details about month by month weather conditions in Hamilton and join a forum discussion about the weather that you can expect in Hamilton. 
     

    Hamilton Maps

     
  • Here is a Hamilton City Map showing you the main streets leading to all the important places and attractions within the city. 
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  • Hamilton Shopping Map shows the top stores in the city. 
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  • Hamilton Dining Map shows the locations of the top restaurants in Hamilton. 
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    Hamilton Road Map Location 
     
     
     
    Raj BhattacharyaBy Raj Bhattacharya 
    Raj, a seasoned travel writer and Bermuda destination expert, has extensive global travel experience. This website reflects his profound insights, garnered over nearly two decades of dedicated findings and research on the island. Raj has assisted countless Bermuda-bound visitors by providing direct, personalized responses to their queries and imparting his wealth of knowledge through this platform. This site serves as an indispensable guide for those seeking informed and reliable insights into Bermuda's treasures. 
     
    Know more about Raj Bhattacharya 
     
     
     

    Related Articles

     
     
    1) Check out History of Hamilton to know how did the city become the capital of Bermuda.  
     
    2) Check out Pembroke to know about the areas surrounding Hamilton City. 
     

    Reviews and Comments

     
     
    Edie (January 2020) 
    Hi, I'm returning to Bermuda coming in at Hamilton port this time, are there shuttle vans at Hamilton port taking you to local beaches like they have at Kings Wharf? And if so, what is the cost from Hamilton to Horseshoe bay. Thanks so much. 
     
    Raj (bermuda-attractions.com) January 2020 
    Hi, there is no organized shuttle minibus service in Hamilton port to take you to the beaches. You can take bus #7 to get to the south shore beaches including Horseshoe ($5 by cash or $4.50 by token one way).