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St. Nicholas Abbey: A Glimpse into Barbadian History and Rum Production

Discover Barbadian heritage at St. Nicholas Abbey: Explore a Jacobean mansion, tour a traditional rum distillery, and ride a scenic railway.

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St. Nicholas Abbey, a beautifully preserved Jacobean mansion dating back to 1658, offers a unique window into Barbados's colonial past and its rum-making heritage. Visitors can explore the historic Great House, tour the rum distillery, and ride a scenic railway through the plantation.

A brief summary to St.Nicholas Abbey Destillerie

Local tips

  • Arrive early to fully experience the property, including the Great House, distillery, and railway. Allow at least 2-3 hours for your visit.
  • Consider visiting during the crop season (January to May) to see the steam mill in action.
  • Don't miss the rum tasting for visitors over 18, and explore the gift shop for unique, estate-produced rum and sugar products.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking the grounds and gardens.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Barbados. From Speightstown, a taxi to St. Nicholas Abbey is a short ride. Expect to pay around BBD 45, though fares can vary. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Public Transport

    While there are no direct bus routes to St. Nicholas Abbey, you can take a bus to Speightstown Terminal in Saint Peter. From there, a taxi is required to complete the journey to the Abbey. Bus fares are typically BBD 3.50 per ride. Several bus routes serve Speightstown, including routes from Bridgetown.

  • Driving

    St. Nicholas Abbey is located in Saint Peter and is well-signposted on main roads. From Speightstown, follow the road inland. Ample parking is available on site. Parking is included in the admission price.

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Discover more about St.Nicholas Abbey Destillerie

St. Nicholas Abbey, located in the parish of St. Peter, is more than just a tourist attraction; it's a journey back in time. Built in 1658, this plantation house is one of only three genuine Jacobean mansions remaining in the Western Hemisphere, showcasing architecture reminiscent of 17th-century English manor houses. Originally named Berringer Plantation, the estate has a rich history filled with tales of duels, love, and intrigue. Colonel Benjamin Berringer, the original owner, met an untimely end, and the property later passed through various hands before being named St. Nicholas Abbey. The current owners, the Warren family, purchased the property in 2006 and have meticulously restored it to its former glory. Visitors can explore the Great House, filled with antiques and artifacts that span the home's 350-year history. A highlight is the rum distillery, where St. Nicholas Abbey Rum is produced using traditional methods. Unlike many commercial rums, St. Nicholas Abbey Rum is crafted from sugar cane syrup rather than molasses, giving it a unique character. The hand-harvested sugar cane is crushed in a 1890 steam mill, and the resulting syrup is fermented and distilled in a combination pot still and distillation column named 'Annabelle'. Beyond the buildings, the grounds offer beautifully landscaped gardens, gullies, and orchards to explore. A heritage railway provides a scenic tour of the plantation, including a stop at Cherry Tree Hill, offering panoramic views of the island's rugged east coast. Visitors can also enjoy a home movie from 1935, offering a glimpse into plantation life. St. Nicholas Abbey is also home to a variety of wildlife, including green monkeys and exotic birds.

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