Background

Clarence House: A Royal Retreat with a Storied Past

Explore Clarence House in English Harbour: a historic museum and event space with stunning views and royal connections.

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Overlooking English Harbour, Clarence House is a beautifully restored 19th-century residence that once served as a country retreat for governors and hosted royal guests. Today, it functions as a museum and event space, offering a glimpse into Antigua's colonial past and naval heritage.

A brief summary to Clarence House

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
  • Check the opening hours in advance, as they may vary seasonally.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the grounds and exploring the nearby Nelson's Dockyard.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Nelson's Dockyard, Clarence House is approximately a 40-minute walk. Follow the road uphill, enjoying the scenic views of English Harbour as you ascend. There are no specific fees for walking, but wear comfortable shoes.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in English Harbour, including Nelson's Dockyard. A short taxi ride to Clarence House will cost approximately $20-30 EC. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Public Transport

    Local buses run frequently from St. John's to English Harbour. From the bus stop in English Harbour, it's a short taxi ride or a 40-minute walk to Clarence House. Bus fare is around $2-5 EC. Be prepared to pay a small fare for the taxi, which can range from $5 to $10 depending on the distance.

Unlock the Best of Clarence House

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Discover more about Clarence House

Clarence House, an architectural and historical treasure, epitomizes the Caribbean's colonial past and naval heritage. Built between 1804 and 1806, the current structure replaced an earlier building believed to have been constructed for the Duke of Clarence, later King William IV. It initially served as the residence for the dockyard's Commissioner. After 1856, it became the official retreat for Antigua's governors, undergoing extensive modifications by various residents over the years. Visiting dignitaries, including Queen Elizabeth II, Winston Churchill, and Princess Margaret, have been entertained here. Princess Margaret even spent the first night of her honeymoon at Clarence House. The house showcases a blend of Georgian, Palladian, Edwardian and Victorian styles. Inside, the house boasts expansive living and dining areas that offer breathtaking views of the Antigua Naval Dockyard. Severely damaged by hurricanes in the 1990s, Clarence House was restored in 2012 and formally reopened by Prince Harry in 2016. Today, the lower level hosts workshops and conferences, while the upper floors serve as a museum. The elegantly restored courtyard is suitable for large events.

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