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St. Nicholas Abbey: A Journey Through Barbadian History and Rum Production

Discover Barbadian history at St. Nicholas Abbey: Jacobean architecture, lush gardens, and handcrafted rum await in a 17th-century plantation setting.

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St. Nicholas Abbey, located in Saint Peter, Barbados, is a beautifully preserved 17th-century plantation house, museum, and rum distillery. One of only three Jacobean mansions in the Western Hemisphere, it offers a glimpse into colonial life and the island's rich rum-making heritage.

A brief summary to St. Nicholas Abbey and Steam Railway

Local tips

  • Arrive early to avoid crowds and fully enjoy the serene atmosphere of the Great House and gardens.
  • Check the Heritage Railway schedule in advance to plan your visit around the train tour times.
  • Visit during the sugar cane grinding season (January to May) to witness the traditional syrup-making process.
  • Take advantage of the complimentary rum tasting to sample the Abbey's signature single-cask rums.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the grounds and exploring the gardens.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Bridgetown, take the 1A or SE1 bus towards Boscobelle. Alight at the 'Castle (Boscobelle)' bus stop. From there, it's approximately a 15-minute walk to St. Nicholas Abbey. The bus fare is approximately $2 BBD.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Barbados. A taxi from Bridgetown to St. Nicholas Abbey will cost approximately $50-$60 BBD. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Driving

    If driving from the Bridgetown area, follow Highway 1 north. Continue onto Highway 2 and then onto Highway 2A. Look for signs directing you to Cherry Tree Hill; St. Nicholas Abbey is located nearby. Parking is available at the entrance to the Abbey and is free.

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Discover more about St. Nicholas Abbey and Steam Railway

St. Nicholas Abbey stands as a testament to Barbados' rich history, offering visitors an immersive experience that combines colonial architecture, lush landscapes, and the art of rum production. Built in 1658, this Jacobean-style mansion is one of only three of its kind remaining in the Western Hemisphere. The Abbey has no church connection and has always been a sugarcane plantation house. Originally known as Berringer Plantation, the property has a captivating history filled with tales of love, murder, and intrigue. Over the centuries, it passed through several families, each leaving their mark on the estate. In 2006, the Warren family purchased the property and began an extensive restoration, recommencing sugar and rum production. A visit to St. Nicholas Abbey offers a multifaceted experience. Explore the Great House, filled with antiques and artifacts that recreate 18th-century plantation life. Wander through the formal gardens, where fragrant flowers and towering mahogany trees create a tranquil atmosphere. Tour the distillery to witness the rum-making process, from the crushing of sugarcane to the aging of the spirit. For a unique perspective, hop aboard the St. Nicholas Abbey Heritage Railway, a restored steam train that winds through the plantation grounds and up to Cherry Tree Hill, offering panoramic views of Barbados' east coast. Don't miss the opportunity to sample the Abbey's signature single-cask rums, crafted using traditional methods. The hand-harvested sugar cane is crushed to create a syrup, which is stored to enable year-round rum production. St. Nicholas Abbey Rum is the only rum produced in Barbados from cane syrup, rather than molasses. St. Nicholas Abbey is more than just a historical site; it's a living, breathing testament to Barbadian heritage and the art of rum making.

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