City of Hamilton Practical information

Health & safety

Dangers & annoyances

The north side of Hamilton, known as 'back of town' or 'backside' by islanders, is not well regarded for safety, particularly after dark. Back of town has higher-than-average issues with violent crime, theft and drugs. Simply put, it is best to avoid walking at all in the area north of Victoria St at night, and even during the day it's not wise to carry a purse or other obvious valuables. The roughest area is around Court St.

Also note that the heavily walked section of Pitts Bay Rd between town and the Fairmont Hamilton Princess has seen its share of purse snatchings. One precaution to thwart drive-by snatchers is to carry your bag close to your body, away from the road.

^ Back to top

While you're there

Medical services

The island's general hospital is nearby in Paget parish.

Phoenix Drug Store(295-3838, 3 Reid St) The largest of several pharmacies in the city center.

^ Back to top