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The Queen's Staircase, Nassau
Hidden in a limestone gorge a few blocks south of Bay Street, the Queen's Staircase climbs 66 steps between walls of rock draped with ferns to the hill where Fort Fincastle and the water tower stand. It is Nassau's most atmospheric historic site and a short walk from the cruise port.
History
The staircase was hewn from the rock by enslaved people between about 1793 and 1794 to provide a direct route from Fort Fincastle to the town below. It was later named for Queen Victoria, in reference to the 1837 abolition of slavery across the British Empire, hence the local belief that there is one step for each year of her reign; the count has been changed by resurfacing over time. A waterfall now runs down one wall, added in the 20th century.
Visiting
Enter from Elizabeth Avenue, about ten minutes' walk from Bay Street, and climb to Fort Fincastle, built in 1793 in the shape of a paddle-wheel steamer, and the adjacent water tower, from which the view takes in the harbour and Paradise Island. Local guides offer short tours at the site; a tip is customary. The staircase is free, open daily and shaded, and it is a standard stop on downtown walking tours.
Nassau's forts
The staircase connects to the oldest of Nassau's defensive works. Fort Fincastle, at the top, was built in 1793 under Lord Dunmore, the governor, and its unusual shape resembles the bow of a paddle-wheel steamer. The water tower beside it, built in 1928, rises 126 feet and was long the highest point on the island. Across town, Fort Charlotte, built from 1787, is the largest of the three forts, with a dry moat and dungeons open to visitors; Fort Montagu, on the eastern harbour entrance, dates from 1741 and is the oldest. A downtown walking tour can take in the staircase and Fort Fincastle in under an hour.
What to see and do
The staircase and gorge
66 steps between fern-covered limestone walls.
Fort Fincastle and the water tower
Views over Nassau and Paradise Island from the top.
Downtown walking tour
Combine with Parliament Square, the Straw Market and the Fish Fry.
Want to visit Queen's Staircase, Nassau?
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Common questions
How many steps are in the Queen's Staircase?
There are 66 steps today. The 65 associated with Queen Victoria's reign is a popular tradition; the count changed when the steps were resurfaced.
Is the Queen's Staircase free?
Yes. Fort Fincastle at the top may charge a small admission, and local guides who tell the story appreciate a tip.
Guides
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