Top 6 Historical Spots to visit in Barbados

Barbados has a rich history and culture shaped by West African and British influences. Step back in time when you visit these top 6 historical spots in beautiful Barbados.

St. Nicholas Abbey

One of only three genuine Jacobean mansions in the Western Hemisphere, the stunning St. Nicholas Abbey is a must visit! The plantation house was built in 1658 with features not known to Barbados like chimney stacks, Dutch gables, a Chinese Chippendale staircase and fine antiques from China.

Today St. Nicholas Abbey is one of the top attraction in Barbados on Trip Advisor. On your visit, you can enjoy rum tasting, a tour of the historic grounds and property and a rare 1930’s film of sugar plantation life in Barbados.

Garrison Historic Area

This UNESCO World Heritage site was established in 1780 as the military headquarters for the Imperial Forces. It holds an Elizabethan cannon of 1600, the only one know to exist in the world! The Main Guard is one of the most stunning buildings in the area. It overlooks the Savannah (where horse racing now takes place). Last year, Barbados celebrated its 50^th Independence. To celebrate, an Independence National Monument and large Barbados flag were added to the historic area.

The Barbados Museum may also be found in this historic area. Located in the buildings which were once used as the military prison at St. Ann’s Garrison. The museum was established in 1933 and today holds over 500,000 artifacts.

Down the road from the Museum is The George Washington House. The property where the first president of the US lived in 1751. An extensive set of tunnels runs under the Garrison, one of which runs close to George Washington House. Once a week in the winter season, you can explore the tunnels and afterwards enjoy a dinner ‘with George’ inside the house. “An opportunity to travel back in time and experience the food and conversation of 18th century Barbados.”

Fun Fact Barbados is the only country that President George Washington ever visited outside of the US.

Farley Hill National Park

A historic mansion in ruins, tucked away atop a hill overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, surrounded by a forest of mahogany trees. The Mansion at Farley Hill began building in 1818 and was one of the most impressive mansions of all time in Barbados. In 1957, the mansion was the setting for the film Island in The Sun. Unfortunately, in 1965, the stunning Farley Hill Mansion was destroyed by a fire. One year later, the same year that Barbados gained its Independence, Queen Elizabeth II reopened Farley Hill as the National Park that it is today.

Sunbury Plantation

One of the most well preserved historic plantation houses in Barbados. This elegant ‘Great House’ dates back to 1660. Tour the antique furnishings and the impressive collection of old carriages. Be sure to visit Sunbury Plantation House at lunch time for a tradition Bajan Buffet, a meal that would have been enjoyed over 300 years ago on the same property.

Codrington College

Codrington College was built in 1743, making it the oldest Anglican Theological College in the Western Hemisphere. Many Caribbean priests have been trained at Codrington. Today visitors are welcome to explore the stunning grounds and architecture. The long driveway lined with cabbage palms leading to a magnificent lily pond in front of the college makes Codrington one of the most photographed sites in Barbados.

St. Johns Parish Church

“The most fascinating church in Barbados” was built in 1846, after the 1831 hurricane destroyed the original wooden structure. This Gothic style church stands solid and soaring atop a serene cliff top. Lush gardens surround the tombs and gravestones which date back to the 1600’s. The interior of the church is made mostly of stunning mahogany works of art.

Our history is nothing short of fascinating. Looking to learn more on Barbados? Click here, or come and explore Barbados and see for yourself.