The Garrison lies on the western end of St. Mary’s. Work on the Star Castle (now a hotel) began soon after the defeat of the Armada in 1588 and substantial granite ramparts were built to protect this side of the island, work going on well into the 18th Century, the main gate being completed in 1742. Most of the massive rampart walls remain intact to remind us of the importance of the islands in the past and to provide an excellent walk with outstanding views of most of the other islands.
