Ascension Travel Guide — Things to Do, Food & Hotels
British Overseas Territory in the South Atlantic Ocean
About Ascension
This barren and not yet inhabited island was discovered and named by the Portuguese in 1501. The British garrisoned the island in 1815 to prevent a rescue of Napoleon from Saint Helena and it served as a provisioning station for the Royal Navy's West Africa Squadron on anti-slavery patrol. The island remained under Admiralty control until 1922, when it became a dependency ofSaint Helena. During World War II, the UK permitted the US to construct Wideawake airfield on Ascension in support of trans-Atlantic flights to Africa and anti-submarine operations in the South Atlantic. In the 1960s the island became an important space tracking station for the US. In 1982, Ascension was an essential staging area for British forces during the Falklands War, and for a short period prior was one of the bu
Top Attractions in Ascension
Explore the best things to see and do in Ascension:
- ★Exiles Club
- ★Fort Hayes
- ★Fort Thornton
- ★Red Lion British Navy Barracks
- ★St Mary's Anglican Church
- ★The Dew Pond
Where to Eat in Ascension
Must-try local food and restaurants:
- 🍴Snack Bar
- 🍴The Restaurant
Ascension Travel Guide Sections
Our comprehensive guide covers 12 sections including: