Somerset Village: Nature Reserves and Somerset Bridge

Somerset Village offers clear points of interest to consider when choosing a destination: woodland scenery, birdwatching and the distinctive Somerset Bridge. Those looking for hotels in Somerset Village can take these different aspects of the area into account when planning their trip.

Nature Reserves and Birdwatching

Gilbert Nature Reserve is a five-acre woodland area in Somerset Village. Walking trails connect the reserve to the Railway Trail. Mature Bermuda cedars grow in the northeastern part, and the reserve is also home to a mulberry tree several centuries old. The woodland, old trees and link to the Railway Trail give the reserve several distinctive features.

Somerset Long Bay East Nature Reserve has a different focus: it features a nature trail and a bird-watching blind. A large pond attracts waterfowl throughout the year; birdwatching and walking are also among the activities described. The reserve is next to Somerset Long Bay Beach. Compared with the woodland at Gilbert Nature Reserve, the pond and birdwatching opportunities are especially prominent here.

Somerset Bridge

Somerset Village is home to Somerset Bridge, a historic, working drawbridge in Sandys Parish. It is considered the smallest working drawbridge in the world. It is 56 centimetres wide, yet can accommodate the mast of a sailboat. Its dimensions, function and connection to sailing make it a distinct point of interest alongside the nature reserves.

More to Discover in Sandys Parish

At the Royal Naval Dockyard, centuries of maritime history meet modern attractions, art and local crafts. Visitors travelling to the Dockyard by sea arrive at King’s Wharf or Heritage Wharf. As arrival arrangements may change, it is advisable to check the latest information before travelling.

The Somerset Village area of Sandys Parish also has local shops and quiet lanes. At Hog Bay Park, the landscape offers more than 30 acres of open space across varied terrain. Visitors can watch birds there; 120 species have been sighted in the park. This parkland is another distinct aspect of the wider Sandys Parish destination.

Those walking or cycling along the Railway Trail to Fort Scaur must climb the hill to enjoy views of the Great Sound and Ely’s Harbour. The climb is part of the described viewing experience. As another cultural point of interest, the National Museum of Bermuda features, among other things, shipwreck artefacts and Bermuda’s role in world history. If particular exhibits are important to you, check the current exhibitions in advance.

The Bermuda Arts Centre at Dockyard offers live glassblowing demonstrations; check in advance whether they will be taking place during your visit. Alongside Somerset Village’s natural and local attractions, Sandys Parish also offers maritime history, art and more reasons to explore.

Discover more destinations: Hog Bay

Return to the main destination overview: Sandys Parish.