Background

Arlington House Museum: A Window into Barbados' Past

Step back in time at Arlington House Museum in Speightstown, Barbados, and explore interactive exhibits showcasing the island's rich history and culture.

4.4

Located in the heart of Speightstown, Barbados, the Arlington House Museum offers a captivating glimpse into the island's rich history and cultural heritage. Housed in a restored 18th-century building, this interactive museum brings history to life through engaging exhibits spread across three floors.

A brief summary to Arlington House Museum

  • Monday 9 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-4 pm
  • Friday 9 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-3 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-3 pm

Local tips

  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum's exhibits and immerse yourself in the stories of Barbados' past.
  • Visit during the week to avoid crowds, as weekends tend to be busier.
  • Check out the gift shop for unique souvenirs and books related to Barbados' history and culture.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through Speightstown to admire the colonial architecture and soak up the town's atmosphere.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    Arlington House Museum is centrally located in Speightstown and easily accessible on foot from most points within the town. From the Speightstown Esplanade, walk inland along Queen Street. The museum will be on your left, a short walk from the waterfront.

  • Public Transport

    From Speightstown Bus Terminal, Arlington House Museum is a short walk. Exit the terminal and walk south along Queen Street. The museum will be on your left, a short distance from the bus terminal. Buses to Speightstown Terminal from various points on the island, including Bridgetown, cost approximately BBD 3.50 per ride.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis are readily available in Speightstown. A short taxi ride from anywhere in Speightstown to Arlington House Museum will cost approximately BBD$15-20. Be sure to agree on the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

Unlock the Best of Arlington House Museum

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Arlington House Museum

Arlington House Museum, nestled in the historic town of Speightstown, provides a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience life in Barbados from the 18th to the 20th centuries. The museum is housed in a meticulously restored eighteenth-century building that once served as a merchant's residence and business, owned by the Skinner family, prominent traders in Speightstown. Built around 1750, the house itself is a prime example of period architecture, featuring thick coral, limestone, and rubble masonry walls constructed with mortar made from egg whites and molasses. Its design served as a model for other merchant homes in Speightstown and even influenced architecture in Charleston, South Carolina, highlighting the historical connections between Barbados and the United States. The museum's exhibits are spread across three floors, each dedicated to a different aspect of Barbados' history. "Speightstown Memories" on the ground floor, explores the lives of the island's first settlers and the town's early days. "Plantation Memories" on the second floor, delves into the era of colonization and the sugar cane industry, examining the profound impact of the plantation system on Barbados, including the role of slavery. "Wharf Memories" on the third floor, recreates Speightstown's bustling port and trade hub, complete with a talking pirate who recounts tales of the sea. Visitors can explore interactive displays with sound effects, videos, and electronics that bring the history of Barbados to life. The museum also features a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs and books related to the island's history and culture. Arlington House Museum stands as a testament to the importance of preserving and sharing Barbados' heritage. It's a place where visitors can connect with the past, learn about the challenges and triumphs of those who came before, and gain a deeper appreciation for the island's unique identity.

Popular Experiences near Arlington House Museum

Popular Hotels near Arlington House Museum

Select Currency