Protecting what makes Bermuda Bermuda
There are places in Bermuda that live quietly in our hearts.
A winding nature trail first explored as a child. A cottage that has stood for centuries. A coastline that reminds us, each time we return, why this island is unlike anywhere else in the world. These places are not just scenery. They are memory, identity and belonging. And once they are lost, they are lost for ever.
Bermuda is small, finite and uniquely vulnerable. Our natural spaces cannot be replaced. Our historic buildings and cultural sites, once altered or destroyed, cannot be recreated.
But when just 32 per cent of Bermuda remains undeveloped, only 9 per cent is fully protected as nature reserves, and 55 historic buildings have disappeared in the past 15 years, it's clear that the island we love is under strain. From the pressure of development reshaping our landscape and communities to invasive species, protecting what makes Bermuda Bermuda has never been more urgent.
Without intentional action, we risk losing the places and stories that define us — and with them, a vital part of our national identity. That is why protecting Bermuda’s heritage matters — not as nostalgia, but as a responsibility to future Bermudians.
The places we protect connect generations. They foster pride and anchor us in who we are. The Bermuda National Trust exists to protect these connections, preserving both natural and cultural heritage, recognising that the two are inseparable.
Our natural spaces support physical and mental wellbeing, provide refuge from an increasingly dense built environment and strengthen our connection to the land. Our historic sites tell the stories of Bermuda’s people — from the African diaspora and Portuguese communities to those of European or North American descent, and the many others that have shaped this island.
We do not do this work alone. The Bermuda National Trust collaborates closely with environmental and heritage partners across the island — including the Bermuda Audubon Society, BEST, the African Diaspora Heritage Trail, the St George’s Foundation, the National Museum of Bermuda and others — strengthening conservation, education, and advocacy through shared expertise and co-ordinated action.
At the same time, the BNT’s role is distinct: It is the only organisation mandated to safeguard both Bermuda’s natural heritage and its cultural heritage by Public Act of Parliament. This dual responsibility positions the BNT as steward of Bermuda’s full heritage landscape: its wild places, historic sites, cultural stories and shared identity. It allows us to take a holistic approach — protecting landscapes and the human stories embedded within them — ensuring heritage remains relevant, accessible and meaningful for future generations.
Our work spans:
• Caring for and providing public access to nature reserves, historic properties and museums across the island
• Conservation of artefacts, landscapes and community stories
• Education programmes that connect children and adults to Bermuda’s heritage through learning, exploration and storytelling
• Advocacy for sustainable development, responsible land-use planning and protection of historic buildings and sites
Each year, thousands of residents and visitors benefit directly from the Bermuda National Trust’s work — whether through access to natural spaces, visits to historic museums, participation in education programmes or engagement with research that deepens our understanding of Bermuda’s past and present.
• Thirteen publicly accessible nature reserves
• As many as 263 acres of natural beauty preserved
• Thirty-six acres of arable land in active production
• Three historic house museums showing 3,000+ culturally significant artefacts
• More than 3000 schoolchildren participate annually in nature and heritage education
• More than 300 volunteers engaged in hands-on conservation and heritage projects
Our vision is of a Bermuda where natural and cultural heritage are valued as essential to national wellbeing and identity. A Bermuda where development and preservation are balanced with care. Where children grow up knowing the stories of their ancestors and the land beneath their feet. Where cultural heritage reflects the full breadth of our history. Where open spaces remain places of wonder, learning and connection.
This future is not guaranteed. It depends on stewardship — on the choices we make now.
Supporting the Bermuda National Trust is an act of care for this island and for one another. Whether through membership, volunteering or donation, every contribution helps.
What we protect today will define the Bermuda we hand over to tomorrow. That is why we hold these places in trust — for everyone, for ever.
• Karen Border is the executive director of the Bermuda National Trust
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