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Welchman Hall Gully: A Collapsed Cave Paradise

Explore a lush tropical forest in a collapsed cave, home to exotic plants, playful monkeys, and stunning views in the heart of Barbados.

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Discover Welchman Hall Gully, a unique geological formation in Barbados. This lush, three-quarter-mile long gully is a collapsed cave system teeming with tropical flora and fauna, including the famous Barbados Green Monkeys. Explore a piece of the island's natural history and enjoy a tranquil escape from the typical beach scene.

A brief summary to Welchman Hall Gully

  • Monday 9 am-3:30 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-3:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-3:30 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-3:30 pm
  • Friday 9 am-3:30 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-3:30 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-3:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit in the morning for the best chance to see the Barbados Green Monkeys, as they are most active during this time.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the path through the gully can be uneven in places.
  • Bring insect repellent, especially after rain, as mosquitoes can be prevalent.
  • Take your time to explore the side paths and bamboo groves for a more immersive experience.
  • Check out the lookout point near the entrance for panoramic views of the east coast.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Bridgetown, take the #4 bus from the Fairchild Street Bus Terminal towards Sturges. The bus ride takes approximately 25 minutes. Ask the driver to drop you off at Welchman Hall Gully. From the bus stop, it's a short, clearly marked walk to the entrance. The bus fare is BBD 3.50 (approximately US$1.75) each way.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis are readily available from most locations in Barbados, including Bridgetown and the airport. A taxi ride from Bridgetown to Welchman Hall Gully takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay between BBD 50-70 (approximately US$25-35) for a one-way trip. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Driving

    If driving from Bridgetown, head north on Highway 2. Follow the signs for Welchman Hall Gully. The drive takes approximately 15-20 minutes. There is a small, free parking lot available near the welcome center at the entrance to the gully. Be aware that parking can be limited during peak season.

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Discover more about Welchman Hall Gully

Welchman Hall Gully, located in the parish of St. Thomas, is a captivating natural wonder in the heart of Barbados. Unlike the island's famed beaches, this three-quarter-mile long gully offers a tranquil retreat into a lush tropical forest. This unique geological formation was originally a part of a cave system. Over a million years ago, the erosion of coral limestone led to the collapse of these cave roofs, creating the dramatic ravine seen today. Evidence of the gully's past as a cave can still be seen in the form of stalactites and stalagmites along the walls. In the 17th century, the gully was owned by General William Asygell Williams, after whom it is named. Williams, a Welshman banished after the English Civil War, cultivated the land, planting exotic trees and an orchard. Notably, the grapefruit is believed to have originated here. Today, the gully is home to over 150 species of plants and trees, including nutmeg, clove, and bamboo. Welchman Hall Gully is also home to a troop of Barbados Green Monkeys. These playful primates are descendants of monkeys brought from West Africa centuries ago. Visitors can often spot them frolicking in the trees or gathering at the feeding platform near the entrance. The Barbados National Trust acquired Welchman Hall Gully in 1962. Today, it serves as a center for conservation and environmental education. A well-maintained, shaded path guides visitors through the gully, with signs and guidebooks providing information about the flora and fauna. A set of stairs near the entrance leads to a lookout point with panoramic views of the surrounding hills and coastline.

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