Otherwise known as the “Gibraltar of the West,” the Royal Naval Dockyard fortifications in Sandys Parish were built in 1809 to compensate for British ports lost in the American Revolution. Convicts transported from Britain and Bermudian slaves built the fortifications from local limestone. In fact, British war ships set sail from this dock to attack Washington, DC during the War of 1812. Britain built the Royal Naval Dockyard in the West End as a buttress against everything from Napoleon’s threats to pirate attacks. Walk across the moat bridge into the Keep, our island’s largest fort, and relieve the past at the impressive Bermuda Maritime Museum. Imaginative redevelopment transformed this old naval installation into charming shops and restaurants. Stop by to climb the ramparts, eat savory fish ‘n’ chips, and visit a snorkel park. Now only a quick ferry ride from Hamilton, visitors love to dive into its historical artifacts and island culture. Royal Naval Dockyard at the island's West End is one of Bermuda's most popular attractions. Once a working fort built by Britain's Royal Navy in the 1800s, it's now a place for the Maritime museum, a craft market, theater, arts center, shops, restaurants, a night club and more. The Bermuda Maritime Museum is more than a collection of old ship models. There are underground tunnels, 30-foot ramparts and everything pertaining to the island's nautical history. If you're looking to get off the beaten path so to speak, take a bike tour or go riding on your own. The Deserted Railway Trail gives you great panoramic views and there are plenty of fun places to stop along the way including the picturesque Gibb's Lighthouse. And be sure to enjoy the outdoors at its best with snorkeling, golfing, kayaking or afternoon sport fishing or splashing around the beach.