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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 poignant reminders of its complex legacy.

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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

  • 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 for exploring the expansive grounds and uneven terrain.
  • Bring cash for the donation box at the entrance and any souvenirs you may wish to purchase.
  • Visit during the dry season (December to April) for the most pleasant weather.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From St. John's, head east towards Pares Village. Follow the signs to Betty's Hope, located a short distance from the village center. Free parking is available on-site.

  • Public Transport

    Take a local bus from St. John's to the St. John's bus station, then transfer to a bus heading towards Pares. Ask the driver to drop you off at Betty's Hope. Be prepared for a short walk from the drop-off point to the plantation. Bus fare is approximately EC$3.

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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 complex history and its reliance on the sugar industry. Founded in the 17th century by Governor Keynell, it was later acquired by the Codrington family and transformed into a leading sugar estate. Named after Christopher Codrington's daughter, the plantation operated for nearly three centuries, shaping the island's economy and social structure. Today, Betty's Hope is an open-air museum where visitors can explore the partially restored ruins. The site includes two imposing mill towers, one of which has been carefully restored to working condition. Visitors can also see the remains of the still house, the manager's house, and former railway carriages. The visitor center, housed in a former cotton storeroom, features exhibits detailing the plantation's history, including artifacts, maps, and models. Betty's Hope offers a glimpse into the lives of the European managers and the enslaved Africans who toiled under harsh conditions. The site serves as a testament to their suffering and resilience, providing a space for reflection on the legacy of slavery in Antigua.

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