Jamestown
on St. Helena, Lesser Antilles

Jamestown

Jamestown is a small settlement located on the island of St. Helena, in the Lesser Antilles. It is the capital of the island and the only port of entry, making it a vital hub for trade and commerce. The town is situated in the south-eastern part of the island, and is surrounded by steep hills and mountains. The highest point of the island is Diana’s Peak, which reaches 1,770 feet above sea level.

Jamestown was founded in 1659 by the British East India Company, and has been the capital of St. Helena ever since. It is a small, picturesque town with a population of around 2,000, and is the oldest continuously inhabited English town in the Southern Hemisphere. The town is full of colonial-era buildings, cobbled streets, and historic monuments, making it a popular tourist destination. The town is also home to some of the island’s most important historical sites, such as the Napoleon Museum, which commemorates the exile of the French Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte.

Jamestown has a long and fascinating history, and was the site of some important events in British naval history. In 1672, a fleet of Dutch ships led by Admiral Michiel de Ruyter attacked the town and the British fleet, but were eventually driven off by the British. During the Napoleonic Wars, the town was the base of operations for the Royal Navy, and was the site of the famous Battle of Jamestown in 1808.

Jamestown is a charming and historic town, and remains an important port of call for vessels travelling to and from St. Helena. It is a great place to explore the island’s history and culture, and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Experience Jamestown with unforgettable activities by our partner GetYourGuide. The offer is also ideal as a special gift idea for family and friends who are planning to visit Jamestown. Cancellations are possible up to 24h before the start of the activity (unless otherwise stated in the activity description), with a full refund of the booking price.

The climate in Jamestown

Jamestown on St. Helena, Lesser Antilles has a warm, humid subtropical climate throughout the year. The highest temperatures are during the summer months from December to March, reaching up to 28°C (82°F). The winter months from June to September are slightly cooler, with temperatures ranging from 18°C (64°F) to 24°C (75°F). The rainy season is between April and November, with average rainfall of up to 250mm (10 inches). The driest months are December to March, with average rainfall of less than 50mm (2 inches). Humidity is high year round, ranging from 60-90%.

Cruise weather for Jamestown

Our weather forecast for Jamestown helps plan your stay according to the weather. For sunny days, pack light and breathable clothes, swimwear, and sunscreen. For winter weather, it's recommended to bring warm clothes, gloves, a hat, sturdy footwear, and a raincoat.

Galery: Jamestown

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