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Fort Bullen
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Historical site
Fort Bullen is a historic fortification located at Barra Point on the northern bank of the Gambia River's mouth. It was established by the British in 1826, specifically to enforce the 1807 Act of Abolition of the Slave Trade by preventing slave ships from entering or leaving the river. The fort was named after Commodore Charles Bullen and played a crucial role in the military control of the region during the 19th century. Its strategic location allowed the British to monitor maritime traffic and defend against French naval interests in West Africa. The structure is built with local laterite stone and originally featured several cannon batteries. Today, it stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site, forming part of the James Island and Related Sites collection. During World War II, the fort was briefly reactivated by the British as a lookout post for German U-boats. The site remains a powerful symbol of the resistance against the transatlantic slave trade and attracts numerous history enthusiasts.
- Location: Gambia
- Nearby: Old Jeshwang (12 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 24 | 26 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 24 |
| Rain mm | 1 | 0 | 5 | 2 | 4 | 74 | 187 | 306 | 231 | 67 | 3 | 0 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Fort Bullen is open to the public and has free exploration of its ruins. You can walk through the inner courtyards and climb the ramparts. Some interior rooms may be closed for safety reasons.
Typical hours
Opening hours typically follow daylight hours, from morning until sunset. It is best to check locally as schedules may vary seasonally.
Photography
Photography is generally allowed throughout the site. Use of flash is discouraged inside enclosed areas to protect the historic fabric.
Time needed
Allow about one to two hours for a thorough visit. The site is compact but rich in history and gives scenic river views.
Combine with
Combine your visit with the bustling market in Barra. A ferry ride across the river to Banjul makes for a full day trip.
Getting there
Reach Fort Bullen by ferry from Banjul to Barra. From the ferry terminal, it is a short taxi ride or a 20-minute walk along the coast.
Insider tip
Visit early morning to avoid the heat and crowds. Hiring a local guide can provide deeper historical insights about the slave trade.
Geography
Facts
- Established in 1826 by the British Royal Navy.
- Named in honor of Commodore Charles Bullen.
- Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2003.
- Constructed using local laterite stone at Barra Point.
- Reactivated during WWII as a lookout for German U-boats.
- Built specifically to suppress the illegal transatlantic slave trade.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Fort Bullen (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is Fort Bullen located?
The fort is located at Barra Point on the north bank of the Gambia River, opposite Banjul.
Why was Fort Bullen built?
It was built by the British in 1826 to suppress illegal slave trading on the river.
Are there guided tours at the fort?
Yes, local guides offer tours explaining the strategic importance and history.
Is the site wheelchair accessible?
The grounds are mostly flat, but paths are uneven and consist partly of sand or grass.
When is the best time to visit?
Cooler morning hours or late afternoon offer the best light and pleasant temperatures.
Fort Bullen: where is it located?
Fort Bullen is located in Gambia.
Fort Bullen: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Fort Bullen: why is it worth visiting?
Fort Bullen is a historic fortification located at Barra Point on the northern bank of the Gambia River's mouth.
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