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

Discover Antigua's colonial past at Betty's Hope, a historic sugar plantation with restored windmills and informative exhibits.

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Explore Betty's Hope, Antigua's first large-scale sugar plantation, established in the 1650s. Wander through the historic ruins, including restored windmills and the remains of the still house, offering a glimpse into the island's colonial past 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, uneven grounds.
  • Bring cash for the donation box, which serves as the entrance fee.
  • Visit during the dry season (December to April) for the most pleasant weather.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Stingray City or Devil's Bridge for a full day of exploration.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From St. John's, take Factory Road towards Pares. Continue straight until you see signs for Betty's Hope. Turn right and follow the signs for approximately 5 minutes. Free parking is available on-site.

  • Public Transport

    Take a local bus from St. John's to the St. Philip area. You'll need to transfer to a bus heading towards Pares. Ask the driver to drop you off at Betty's Hope. Be prepared for a walk from the drop-off point to the plantation. Bus fares are typically inexpensive, around EC$3-5 per ride.

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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 sugar-producing past. Founded in the 17th century by Governor Keynell, it became one of the island's largest and most successful sugar plantations under the ownership of the Codrington family, who acquired it in 1674 and held it until 1944. The plantation was named after Christopher Codrington's daughter, Betty. Visitors can explore the sprawling grounds, where the remnants of the sugar production process are still visible. The site features two mill towers, one of which has been carefully restored to working condition. You can also see stone water catchments, the ruins of the Still House, and the Manager's House. The former cotton store now serves as an interpretation center, housing artifacts, a miniature village, and informative signage detailing the plantation's history. Betty's Hope offers a unique opportunity to understand the complexities of Antigua's colonial history, including the vital role of enslaved Africans who toiled under harsh conditions to cultivate and process sugar. Their skills as craftsmen, boilers, and distillers contributed to Betty's Hope's reputation for excellence. The ongoing restoration efforts provide insight into plantation life, with restored machinery and plans to replant historical crops. While visiting, take time to appreciate the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from the hillside location. The peaceful, rural setting allows for reflection on the lives and legacies of those who lived and worked at Betty's Hope.

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