Fairyland, Bermuda

From Bernews

Continuing with the origin story of John Lennon’s ‘Grow Old With Me,’ as previously discussed, Lennon arrived in Bermuda June 11th 1980 and initially stayed at Knapton Estates. However, he was looking for a place with more room and more privacy.

Real estate agent Bill Lusher made inquiries.[1] He, along with Lennon’s assistant, ultimately found a suitable home in Fairyland, located in the Pembroke parish and only a mile west of the city of Hamilton. Fairyland Road winds through the area. The Bermudian describes Fairyland as follows.

“Located on the west of Pitt’s Bay Road, this concentration of old and expensive houses and properties covers the two peninsulas of Mill Shares and Point Shares. Named Fairyland or Fairylands depending on which map you’re checking, this charming neighbourhood boasts idyllic, winding byways with lovely views… 

“Fairylands takes its name from the Celtic mythology and was conceived by wealthier merchants who had established businesses in the city of Hamilton and wanted to live near the city but just far enough away to be quiet. The picturesque ocean views also played a part in their decision.” 

Google Earth view of Fairylands, Bermuda. Mill Shares is north of Point Shares

Scott Neil writes in Lennon Bermuda:

The magic of Fairylands goes far beyond its  name. The exclusive residential enclave,  tucked away on two quiet peninsulas, seems  to exist in a hidden world of its own… There is no through road—only winding lanes and narrow byways that  meander between the manicured gardens of  sprawling properties, many with swimming pools  or docks overlooking the panoramic Great Sound. A few homes date back to the 1800s and display facets of unique Bermudian architecture, from stepped limestone roofs to “eyebrow” stonework above windows and neatly painted wooden shutters…

In shady, undeveloped slopes and empty plots, where palms, cedars, palmettos and colourful oleander shrubs grow with abandon, it is possible to imagine the ethereal spirits from Celtic mythology that gave Fairylands its name might still be found.[2]

Fairyland is where Lennon would write most of the music he completed in Bermuda. In fact, Lennon would write on numerous song manuscripts ‘Fairyland, Bermuda,’ including the one for ‘Grow Old With Me.’

[1] Neil, Scott. Lennon Bermuda p. 47. Freisenbruch Brannon Media. Kindle Edition.

[2] Neil, Scott. Lennon Bermuda. p.49. Freisenbruch Brannon Media. Kindle Edition.