Senior travel: Jamestown
An easier pace for an older traveller: how many stops fit in a day, which places are step-free, and what the guide says about getting around, medicines and stairs.
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Pace for a day
About 3 stops a day. 5 h out − 45 min rest, divided by an average visit of 46 min (from this city’s guide) + 30 min to move.
Places, easiest access first
- Castle GardensStep-free: yes · about 30 minPaved paths, mostly flat; a step at some entrances.
- St James’ ChurchStep-free: partial (check before you go) · about 20 minSteps at the door; a ramp may exist (check).
- The Wharf and landing stepsStep-free: partial (check before you go) · about 30 minA flat quay; the landing steps are wet and slippery.
- Main Street and the Georgian town walkStep-free: partial (check before you go) · about 45 minA steady incline; kerbs and steps into some shops.
- Museum of St HelenaStep-free: partial (check before you go) · about 60 minA step or ramp at the door (check); displays mostly on one level.
- Jacob's LadderStep-free: no (check before you go) · about 90 min699 steps; not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers.
Getting around in Jamestown
Jamestown is hard going on wheels. The valley is steep, kerbs are high, and older buildings have steps. Some guesthouses and the museum have ramps; ask before booking. A car or taxi is the main option beyond the flat seafront.
- Pavements:
- Narrow and steep in places; the seafront and the lower Main Street are the flattest.
- Getting around:
- Taxis and hire cars; there are no buses that suit visitors' timings (check).
- Accommodation:
- Few rooms are step-free; ask about stairs, bathrooms and parking.
- Toilets:
- In cafés, the museum and public buildings; check for accessible ones.
- Ladder:
- Not accessible: 699 steps.
Stairs at the hotel areas
- Main Street: 2 flights up, 0 down, 30 m walk from the stop
- Upper Jamestown: 3 flights up, 0 down, 40 m walk from the stop
Medicines and health on the ground
- Medical insurance certificate · before flying: £175,000 minimum with evacuation (Saint Helena); £500,000 (Ascension); download a copy.
- Insurance:
- Travel insurance with medical evacuation is required for entry and strongly advised (check the rule).
- Sun:
- Strong sun and wind; hat, sunscreen and water on the Ladder.
- Medicines:
- Bring all regular medicines for the trip plus spare days; the pharmacy is small.
- Water:
- Tap water is generally safe; ask your host.
- Insects:
- Few disease-carrying insects; use repellent for bites.
- Vaccinations:
- Routine vaccinations up to date; ask a travel clinic about tetanus and hepatitis A.
More: how much medicine to pack, medicine times across time zones.
Ask your insurer
Age limits and prices differ by policy and the guides do not hold them, so put these to the insurer before you buy.
- What is the oldest age the policy covers, at purchase and on the last day of the trip?
- Does the price or the cover change after a certain age?
- Are existing conditions covered, and what must be declared?
- Does the cover include medical evacuation and trip interruption?
Not medical advice. This page does not know anyone’s health. Ask a doctor before the trip, and carry a list of medicines and conditions.