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The Garrison Historic Area: A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Explore Barbados' colonial past at the Garrison Historic Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with military history, architecture, and cultural treasures.

The Garrison Historic Area, located in Bridgetown, Barbados, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases the island's rich British colonial past. This well-preserved 18th and 19th-century military complex features historic buildings, the Garrison Savannah, and St. Ann's Fort, offering visitors a glimpse into Barbados' unique cultural and architectural heritage.

A brief summary to Garrison

  • Bridgetown, Saint Michael, BB

Local tips

  • Visit the Barbados Museum to delve into the island's history and culture, with exhibits ranging from Amerindian artifacts to colonial-era artifacts.
  • Take a tour of George Washington House to see where the future U.S. President stayed in 1751 and learn about his connection to Barbados.
  • Attend a horse race at the Garrison Savannah to experience a local sporting tradition and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
  • Explore St. Ann's Fort and the Barbados National Armoury to see a collection of historic cannons and learn about the island's military history.
  • Walk around the Garrison Savannah, a popular recreational area, where you can enjoy cricket games, jogging, or simply relax and watch the world go by.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Bridgetown, the Garrison Historic Area is easily accessible by bus. Several bus routes operate from the Fairchild Street Terminal to the Garrison, including routes 11T, 12D, 12F, 13, 27, 31 and 33. The journey takes approximately 5-10 minutes. The fare is BBD $3.50 per person each way. Alight at the Garrison Savannah stop.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Bridgetown and offer a direct route to the Garrison Historic Area. A taxi from the city center to the Garrison typically costs between BBD $25-35 and takes around 5 minutes, depending on traffic. Ensure the taxi is licensed and agree on the fare before starting your journey. A taxi from Garrison to Bridgetown is approximately BBD $14-$17. A taxi from the Garrison Historic Area to Skeetes Hill is approximately BBD $27.

  • Walking

    For those already in Bridgetown, walking to the Garrison Historic Area is a viable option. The walk from the city center takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Head south along Bay Street, following the coastline. The Garrison Historic Area will be on your left. This route offers scenic views of the ocean and allows you to explore the area at your own pace. There are no tolls or specific access fees for pedestrians.

Discover more about Garrison

The Garrison Historic Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011, stands as a testament to Barbados' pivotal role in the British colonial empire. Established in 1780 as the military headquarters for the Imperial Forces, the Garrison was the largest in the British colonies during the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, it is home to the Barbados Defence Force and encompasses a wealth of historical and architectural treasures. The Garrison Savannah, a former parade ground, is now a popular recreational area and home to the Barbados Turf Club, hosting horse races, including the prestigious Sandy Lane Gold Cup. The Main Guard, with its unique George III Coat of Arms, overlooks the Savannah and stands as one of the area's most outstanding buildings. St. Ann's Fort, dating back to 1705, houses the Barbados National Armoury, displaying an impressive collection of cannons, including a rare Elizabethan cannon from 1600. Visitors can explore the Garrison's well-preserved buildings, such as the Stone Barracks, the West India Barracks, and Stafford House, which reflect the island's colonial past. George Washington House, where the future U.S. President stayed in 1751, offers a glimpse into 18th-century life. The Barbados Museum, housed in a former military prison, showcases the island's cultural heritage with exhibits on Amerindian and African culture, European decorative arts, and antique maps. The Garrison Historic Area offers a unique blend of history, culture, and recreation, making it a must-see destination for visitors to Barbados.

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