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Betty's Hope: A Window into Antigua's Sugar Past

Explore Betty's Hope, Antigua: A historic sugar plantation offering a glimpse into the island's colonial past and the lives of those who shaped it.

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Betty's Hope, established in the 17th century, stands as a poignant reminder of Antigua's sugar plantation history. Though the windmills are no longer operational, the site offers a glimpse into the lives of both the plantation owners and the enslaved Africans who toiled 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

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the site involves walking on uneven ground.
  • Bring water and sunscreen, as there is limited shade available.
  • Consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
  • Take time to read the information panels to fully appreciate the historical significance of the site.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From St. John's, take Sir George Walter Highway heading east. Continue onto Independence Drive, then turn left onto Parham road. Follow the signs to Betty's Hope. The drive is approximately 20-30 minutes. Parking is available on-site free of charge.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available from St. John's and other major tourist areas. A taxi from St. John's to Betty's Hope will cost approximately $25-30 USD. Agree on the fare before starting your journey.

  • Public Transport

    Public buses run from St. John's to Parham. From Parham, you can take another bus or a taxi to Betty's Hope, which is a short distance away. The bus fare from St. John's to Parham is around $3 XCD. From Parham to Betty's Hope by taxi will cost approximately $10-15 USD.

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Discover more about Betty's Hope Historic Sugar Plantation

Betty's Hope, located near Pares Village, is one of Antigua's most historically significant sites, offering a sobering look into the island's sugar plantation past. Established in 1650 by Sir Christopher Codrington, it was one of the first large-scale sugar plantations on Antigua and remained in operation until 1921. Today, visitors can explore the partially restored ruins, including the twin windmills that once crushed sugarcane, the boiling house where the juice was processed into sugar, and the overseer's house. While the windmills are no longer functioning, one has been carefully reconstructed to demonstrate the original milling process. The visitor center provides historical context through exhibits and artifacts, detailing the lives of the Codrington family and the enslaved Africans who were forced to work the land. Betty's Hope serves as a powerful memorial to the transatlantic slave trade and the brutal conditions endured by enslaved people. It's a place for reflection and education, offering a deeper understanding of Antigua's complex history and cultural heritage. The site is open to the public and provides a self-guided tour, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace and contemplate the stories embedded within the ruins.

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