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Gun Hill Signal Station: A Historic Sentinel

Discover panoramic views and Barbadian history at Gun Hill Signal Station, a beautifully restored military outpost with stunning vistas.

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Perched atop a strategic highland in St. George, Barbados, Gun Hill Signal Station offers panoramic views and a glimpse into the island's military history. Restored by the Barbados National Trust, it features a signal tower, military memorabilia, and the iconic Gun Hill Lion.

A brief summary to Gun Hill Signal Station

  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit in the late afternoon for the best views of the southern half of the island.
  • Explore the military memorabilia inside the signal tower to learn about the station's history.
  • Take photos with the Gun Hill Lion, a famous sculpture that symbolizes British imperial power.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Bridgetown, take a bus (routes 1, 2, 7, 7A, 28, 31, or 6A) from the main bus terminal at Fairchild Street heading towards St. George. Inform the driver you wish to get off at the nearest stop for Gun Hill Signal Station. The bus fare is approximately BBD$3.50. From the bus stop, it's about a 1-kilometer uphill walk to the station; be prepared for a moderately steep incline.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Bridgetown to Gun Hill Signal Station will cost approximately BBD$30-50, depending on traffic and your starting location. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. The taxi will take you directly to Gun Hill Signal Station.

Unlock the Best of Gun Hill Signal Station

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Discover more about Gun Hill Signal Station

Gun Hill Signal Station, located in St. George, Barbados, stands as the largest and most important of the island's military outposts. Built in 1818, two years after Barbados' only slave revolt, it was part of a chain of signal stations used to spot approaching ships and signal warnings. From its strategic hilltop location, Gun Hill commands a magnificent view from east through south to the west. Originally known as Briggs Hill, the site has military associations dating back to 1697 when it was designated as a point for placing guns to raise alarm in case of invasion. The signal stations played a crucial role in communicating information across the island, using flags and cannon shots to relay messages about approaching ships, potential civil disorder, and hurricane warnings. Gun Hill also served as a convalescent station for troops and a place of evacuation during epidemics. Today, the Barbados National Trust maintains the site, which was restored in 1982. Visitors can explore the signal tower, examine military memorabilia, and admire the famous Gun Hill Lion, a sculpture carved from a single piece of coral stone in 1868 by Captain Henry Wilkinson. The grounds feature beautifully landscaped gardens with tropical flowers and trees. The station is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm.

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