Masonic & Heritage Private Tour of Olde St. Georges Bermuda

A Personal Look at the Masonic & Heritage Private Tour of Olde St. Georges Bermuda

If you’re eager to explore Bermuda’s storied past beyond the usual postcard views, this private tour of Olde St. George offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s colonial roots and the introduction of Freemasonry. Priced at $125 per person, it lasts about 2 hours and 30 minutes—just enough time to soak up history without feeling rushed. Led by knowledgeable guides, this experience takes you on foot and by vehicle through some of Bermuda’s most significant UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Old State House, St. Peter’s Church, Mitchell House, and Fort St. Catherine.

What we love most about this tour is the combination of privileged access and personalized storytelling. The chance to step inside the Old State House, the oldest Masonic Lodge in Bermuda, is truly special. It’s a rare opportunity to see a building that isn’t just a museum but a living monument to the island’s Masonic traditions, with the lodge dating back to 1797. Plus, the intimate setting allows for anecdotal tales that bring history to life, making it both an educational and engaging experience.

One thing to keep in mind is that, while the tour is designed to be flexible and accommodating, some parts involve walking on uneven surfaces or stairs—though the providers are open to customizing for most mobility needs. If you’re a history buff or simply curious about Bermuda’s early days, this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially perfect for those who appreciate detailed stories and exclusive access rather than large-group bus tours.

Key Points

• Exclusive Access: Walk inside the Old State House and the oldest Masonic Lodge in Bermuda.
• Rich Heritage: Visit five UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Fort St. Catherine and St. Peter’s Church.
• Flexible & Personalized: Tours are customizable, ideal for most mobility levels and interests.
• Informed Guides: Knowledgeable guides share anecdotal tales that bring history to life.
• Value for Money: Includes all admission fees and bottled water, with a portion of proceeds donated.
• Ideal for History & Heritage Lovers: Perfect for travelers wanting an in-depth, authentic experience.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting at Kings Square and Ordnance Island

Your journey begins in Kings Square, a hub of Bermuda’s earliest days. Here, you’ll get a quick but vivid picture of Bermuda’s oldest British settlement, with explanations about how it became the first enduring colony in the Western Hemisphere. The nearby Ordnance Island offers a peek into Bermuda’s maritime history, making it a great first stop to set the scene.

The Old State House and the Masonic Lodge

Next, the star of the tour—the Old State House—where you get privileged access. This isn’t just a building; it’s a symbol of Bermuda’s colonial and Masonic heritage. The lodge, No. 200 on the Roll of the Grand Lodge of Scotland, has been active since 1797, making it the oldest in Bermuda and the only Scottish Constitution Lodge still in continuous operation outside Scotland. Here, guides share stories of how Freemasonry was introduced to the island, adding a layer of intrigue and respect for tradition.

St. Peter’s Church – The Oldest Anglican Church Outside the British Isles

A visit to St. Peter’s Church offers insight into Bermuda’s religious history. Established in 1612, it’s the oldest Anglican church outside the British Isles. Walking through its interior and churchyard, you’ll see gravestones and architecture that echo centuries of local life. The guide’s narratives help you understand how religion shaped Bermuda’s social fabric.

Mitchell House and Gardens

The tour includes time at Mitchell House, a colonial-era building constructed around 1700. Its interior and gardens provide a tangible connection to early Bermudian life. Exploring this site allows you to imagine what daily life was like for those who lived here more than 300 years ago, especially when combined with stories from your guide.

Fort St. Catherine

The tour culminates at Fort St. Catherine, built circa 1624. It’s Bermuda’s largest UNESCO World Heritage fortification, with impressive walls and a subterranean Gun Powder Magazine. This site offers spectacular views and a tangible sense of Bermuda’s defensive history. The 45-minute visit here is both educational and scenic, with plenty of opportunities for photos.

What’s Included and How It Adds Value

Aside from the entrance to all these sites, the tour includes bottled water and a chance to take refreshments at the Lodge Festive Board. Importantly, part of the tour fee is donated to the Lodge and other venues, adding a feel-good aspect to your experience. The private nature of the tour means you’ll have the flexibility to ask questions and tailor the experience to your interests or mobility needs, making it especially suitable for those who prefer a more intimate, personalized outing.

Practical Details & Considerations

Starting at 10:00 am, the tour ends back at your original meeting point, making it easy to plan your day. It’s near public transportation, and hotel, ferry, or Airbnb pickups are available if arranged in advance. The tour is suitable for most travelers, and service animals are allowed, which is considerate for those with specific needs.

While the tour is flexible, note that Bermuda can be quite warm and humid, so comfortable shoes and sun protection are advisable. The itinerary is designed to be leisurely, but some walking is involved, so if mobility is a concern, be sure to communicate your needs.

Authentic Experiences that Stand Out

We appreciated the guides’ depth of knowledge—they share stories beyond the basic facts, making history engaging. One reviewer praised Robin and Bill’s accommodating nature, especially when adjusting the itinerary for travelers with limited mobility, making the experience inclusive and welcoming.

The privileged access to the Old State House and the storytelling about Freemasonry are unique features that set this tour apart from generic Bermuda sightseeing. It’s not just about seeing historical sites but understanding their significance and the stories behind them.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who seek a meaningful, in-depth understanding of Bermuda’s colonial and Masonic past. If you love history, architecture, and authentic stories, you’ll find it rewarding. It also appeals to those with mobility considerations, thanks to the tour’s flexibility. Perfect for small groups or individuals who prefer a personal touch, this tour offers insights that larger, bus-based trips simply can’t match.

Final Thoughts

For travelers eager to uncover Bermuda’s less obvious stories and enjoy exclusive access to historic landmarks, this private tour delivers a well-rounded, engaging experience. The combination of UNESCO sites, historic buildings, and stories about Bermuda’s first Masonic lodge makes it both informative and memorable. The guides’ friendly and accommodating approach enhances the visit, making it suitable for varied interests and needs.

While it’s admittedly a more specialized tour, it offers excellent value for those interested in history and heritage, especially at a reasonable price point considering the personalized service and included admissions. If you’re visiting Bermuda and want a deep dive into its origins, this tour is a smart choice—an authentic, enriching experience that will leave you with stories to tell long after you leave.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
Yes, the tour can be customized to accommodate most mobility needs. The guides are very accommodating and willing to adjust the itinerary accordingly.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, covering five key sites and offering a relaxed pace.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers all entrance fees to the sites, bottled water, and a donation portion that benefits the lodges and other venues.

Can I start the tour from my hotel or Airbnb?
Yes, hotel, ferry, and Airbnb pickups are available if arranged in advance, making it convenient for travelers staying around St. George.

Are children or family groups welcome?
While the tour is suitable for most travelers, it’s best for those interested in history and comfortable walking. Customization for mobility or interests makes it family-friendly.

What’s the best way to book?
Most travelers book this tour 6 to 7 months in advance due to its popularity, but last-minute availability can sometimes be checked directly with Bermuda Heritage Tours.

Is this a group tour or private?
It’s a private experience, exclusively for your group, ensuring personalized attention and a tailored experience.

Set out on a journey through Bermuda’s colonial and Masonic past, and discover stories that have shaped the island’s identity—an experience that’s both educational and intimate.