The Cot
Stone ruins of a Victorian estate cottage in the woods above Woodlands.
Updated 3 September 2026
The Cot is the stone shell of a small house built in the nineteenth century as a hill retreat for the Sturge family, English Quakers who bought up estates on Montserrat and turned the island's economy toward limes. Walls, chimney and terrace survive in the trees on a spur above Woodlands with the sea below. The National Trust maintains a short path to it. Lime juice from the island's estates was shipped to England in quantity, and the family name went with it.
What to look for
- The stone shell - walls, chimney and terrace still standing.
- The hill position - a spur above Woodlands with the sea below.
- The Sturge estate history - the family that turned the island to limes.
- The path - the short marked walk in through the trees.
When to go
December to April is the dry season and the path is drier. Vegetation is heavier after the wet months. Mornings are cooler.
Practical notes
The ruin is small and the visit is short. The path can be muddy and overgrown after rain. There is no interpretation beyond a sign.
Nearby
Woodlands Beach is below, and the botanical garden is northeast.
What to pack for The Cot
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Comfortable walking shoes - Sightseeing means kilometres of pavement and cobbles daily. Find on Amazon
- A slim anti-theft daypack - Zips that close properly; keep it in front in crowds and on transit. Find on Amazon
- A refillable water bottle - Many cities have public fountains; save money and plastic. Find on Amazon
- A light layer + compact umbrella - For museum air-con and a sudden shower. Find on Amazon
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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
