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

Discover Antigua's colonial past at Betty's Hope, the island's first large-scale sugar plantation, featuring restored windmills and historical ruins.

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Explore Betty's Hope, Antigua's first large-scale sugar plantation, established in the 17th century. Wander through the ruins of windmills, boiling houses, and the still house, gaining insight into the island's colonial history and the lives of those who labored here.

A brief summary to Betty's Hope Historic Sugar Plantation

  • Monday 9 am-3 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-3 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-3 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-3 pm
  • Friday 9 am-1:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit in the morning to avoid the heat and enjoy a more serene atmosphere.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking through historical ruins and natural landscapes.
  • Bring water, especially on hot days, as there are limited facilities on site.
  • Take a guided tour to gain a deeper understanding of the plantation's history and the lives of those who worked there.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From St. John's, take a bus from the East Bus Station towards Pares. Buses leave frequently throughout the day. The fare is approximately 3-5 ECD. Inform the driver that you wish to stop at Betty's Hope. From the bus stop, walk approximately 500 meters to the plantation entrance.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in St. John's and can provide a direct route to Betty's Hope. A taxi from St. John's to Betty's Hope typically costs 30-40 ECD. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Driving

    From St. John's, head east on Sir George Walter Highway (A1) for approximately 12 km. At the roundabout with the A3, take the second exit to stay on A1. Continue for another 5 km until you see signs for Betty's Hope. Turn left onto the road leading to the plantation and follow it for about 1.5 km. There is no parking fee.

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Discover more about Betty's Hope Historic Sugar Plantation

Betty's Hope, located near Pares, stands as a poignant reminder of Antigua's colonial past and its reliance on the sugar trade. Founded in 1650 by Governor Keynell, it became the island's first large-scale sugar plantation. The Codrington family owned it from 1674 to 1944, shaping it into one of the most efficient and largest estates on the island. Today, Betty's Hope is an open-air museum where visitors can explore the partially restored ruins. See the twin windmills, one of which has been carefully restored, offering a glimpse into the sugar production process. Wander through the remains of the Boiling House, where cane juice was crystallized, and the Still House, where rum was distilled. The former cotton store now serves as an interpretation center, displaying artifacts, a miniature village, and informative signage detailing the estate's history. Betty's Hope serves as a reminder of the enslaved Africans who toiled under harsh conditions to cultivate and process sugar. Their craftsmanship and skills contributed to the plantation's reputation for excellence. The ongoing restoration efforts aim to preserve this important historical site for future generations, offering visitors a chance to reflect on the shared history that shaped Antigua's identity.

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