Newcastle

Newcastle, located in the Blue Mountains of Saint Andrew, Jamaica, was established in 1841 by the British Army as a military hill station. Major General Sir William Maynard Gomm, then Commander of Her Majesty’s forces in Jamaica, initiated its development to combat the high mortality rate among British troops due to yellow fever in the lowland areas. Observing that the cooler mountain climate led to fewer cases, Gomm chose the Newcastle coffee plantation as the ideal site. The barracks’ construction significantly reduced death rates among soldiers. After Jamaica gained independence in 1962, Newcastle was transferred to the Jamaican Government and now serves as a training center for the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF). The base, situated within the Blue and John Crow Mountains National Park, established in 1992, is accessible via the Kingston to Buff Bay road. Popular among hikers, the area offers trails connecting villages, farms, and plantations, with notable routes leading to Catherine’s Peak and Mt. Horeb.

Newcastle retains much of its historical military architecture, including original barracks and cemeteries, which stand as a testament to its colonial heritage. The cool climate and lush vegetation create a serene environment that appeals to visitors interested in eco-tourism and Jamaica’s history. Discussions have emerged about transforming the Newcastle military camp into an eco-tourism resort to diversify Jamaica’s tourism offerings beyond traditional beach attractions. Such a development could highlight the area’s natural beauty and historical significance, attracting heritage enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.