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Betty's Hope: Echoes of Antigua's Sugar Past

Step back in time at Betty's Hope, Antigua's first sugar plantation, and discover the stories etched in its historic ruins and restored mill.

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Explore Betty's Hope, Antigua's first large-scale sugar plantation, established in the 1650s. Wander the grounds of this open-air museum, where restored windmills and ruins whisper tales of colonial enterprise and the lives of those who labored here.

A brief summary to Betty's Hope Historic Sugar Plantation

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the expansive grounds.
  • Bring cash for the donation box at the entrance.
  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter experience.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From St. John's, catch a minivan heading towards the eastern side of the island. These minivans usually display 'Pares' or 'St. Phillip's' on their front. Inform the driver that you wish to get off at Betty's Hope. The ride takes approximately 30 minutes. From the main road, it's about a 10-minute walk to the site. The bus fare from St. John's to the stop closest to Betty's Hope is around $3 XCD.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Antigua. A taxi from St. John's to Betty's Hope will cost approximately US$17. Ensure the taxi driver knows the location, as it is a well-known historical site. The journey takes around 30 minutes.

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Discover more about Betty's Hope Historic Sugar Plantation

Betty's Hope, located near Pares Village, stands as a poignant reminder of Antigua's colonial past and its reliance on the sugar industry. Established in the 1650s by Governor Keynell, it was the island's first large-scale sugar plantation. The estate was later granted to the Codrington family in 1674, who transformed it into one of the most efficient sugar estates, named after Christopher Codrington's daughter. Today, Betty's Hope is an open-air museum where visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the lives of the European managers and the enslaved Africans who worked the land. See the twin windmills, one of which has been restored to working condition, and imagine the backbreaking labor required to cultivate and process sugar. Visible remains include stone water catchments, two mill towers, the Still House, and the Manager's House. The visitor center, housed in a former cotton storeroom, displays artifacts, maps, and estate plans, providing context for the site's history. Take time to wander the tranquil grounds and reflect on Antigua's complex past.

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