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Barbados Turf Club: A Legacy of Racing

Experience the thrill of horse racing at the historic Garrison Savannah, a vibrant cultural landmark in Barbados since 1845.

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Experience the thrill of horse racing at the historic Garrison Savannah, home to the Barbados Turf Club since 1845. A vibrant cultural institution, it offers exciting races, local cuisine, and a lively atmosphere for locals and tourists alike.

A brief summary to Barbados Turf Club

  • Monday 8 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-4 pm
  • Friday 8 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially on race days, to secure parking and a good viewing spot.
  • Check the Barbados Turf Club's website for the racing schedule and special events.
  • Sample local Bajan cuisine from the food vendors for an authentic taste of the island.
  • Bring cash for betting and smaller vendors, as card payments may not always be available.
  • Engage with locals to learn more about the history and traditions of horse racing in Barbados.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Bridgetown, the Barbados Turf Club at the Garrison Savannah is easily accessible by public transport. Walk to the bus terminal near National Heroes Square. Take a bus heading towards the Garrison; routes 27, 31, 33, 57, 27D, 28, 12A, 13B, 13, 12D, and 12F all pass near the Garrison Savannah. Ask the driver to let you off near the Garrison Savannah, such as the one opposite the Barbados Museum. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the Barbados Turf Club entrance. The standard bus fare is BBD$3.50 (approximately US$1.75), payable in local currency.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis are readily available in Bridgetown and can take you directly to the Barbados Turf Club. A taxi ride from Bridgetown to the Garrison Savannah typically costs between BBD$25-BBD$75 (USD$12.50-USD$37.50), but confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Taxis are easily identified by the 'Z' on their license plates. While Uber is not available in Barbados, local taxi services are reliable and government-regulated.

  • Driving

    From Bridgetown, follow the main roads towards the Garrison area. Look for signs directing you to the Garrison Savannah. Parking is available at the back of the Grandstand Main Entrance on a first come first serve basis; alternatively, there are many car parks in the surrounding area. Parking availability can be limited on race days, especially Boxing Day, so arrive early. Parking fees vary but expect to pay around BBD 5-10. During major events like the Gold Cup, traffic restrictions may be in place.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the Garrison area or staying at a nearby hotel (e.g., Hilton Barbados), walking to the Barbados Turf Club is a viable option. From the city center, follow the main road (Garrison Road) southeastward. The walk is approximately 3 kilometers (2 miles) from the center of Bridgetown and should take around 30-40 minutes. Look for landmarks such as the Barbados Museum and the Main Guard House to guide you. There are no costs associated with walking.

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Discover more about Barbados Turf Club

The Barbados Turf Club, nestled within the historic Garrison Savannah, is more than just a racetrack; it's a vibrant piece of Barbadian history and a testament to the island's enduring passion for horse racing. Located just outside of Bridgetown, the Garrison Savannah has been the heart of Barbadian horse racing since 1845, when officers of the British Regiment stationed in Barbados began racing their horses against those of wealthy merchants and plantation owners. This tradition evolved into organized racing, and in 1905, the Barbados Turf Club was officially established to manage, promote, and organize horse racing events. Today, the Barbados Turf Club hosts three main racing seasons throughout the year: the Spring Season (January to April), the Summer Season (May to September), and the Winter Season (November to December). Each season features a series of race meetings, totaling approximately 25 annually, with around 185 individual races. These events draw large crowds of locals and tourists alike, creating a lively and festive atmosphere. The highlight of the racing calendar is undoubtedly the Sandy Lane Barbados Gold Cup, an internationally acclaimed event held annually on the first Saturday of March. Visitors to the Barbados Turf Club can enjoy a variety of amenities, including comfortable seating in the grandstand, bars serving refreshing drinks, and food stands offering delicious local cuisine. The atmosphere is electric, with the cheers of the crowd mingling with the thundering hooves of the horses. Whether you're a seasoned racing fan or a first-time visitor, the Barbados Turf Club offers an unforgettable experience. The Garrison Savannah is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with several significant buildings surrounding the track, including the Main Guard House and Clock Tower, the Barbados Museum and Historical Society, St Ann's Fort, and George Washington House.

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