Oistins, Bridgetown Travel Guide

Discover a historic Barbadian church with stunning views and a mysterious past, including the legend of the moving coffins in the Chase Vault.

Overlooking Oistins Bay, Christ Church Parish Church is a historic landmark with a storied past. The current structure, consecrated in 1935, is the fifth church on this site, with its predecessors falling victim to natural disasters. The churchyard is also home to the intriguing Chase Vault, known for its mysterious moving coffins.

A brief summary to Oistins

Oistins, Christ Church, BB

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Know before you go

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Explore the churchyard to find the Chase Vault, the site of the mysterious moving coffin legend.
Take in the panoramic views of Oistins Bay from the church's elevated location.
Combine your visit with a trip to Oistins Fish Fry for a taste of local Bajan cuisine and culture.

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Getting There

Walking

From Oistins, Christ Church Parish Church is a short but moderately steep uphill walk. Head north from the Oistins Fish Fry area on the main road, then turn right onto Church Hill Road. The church will be on your left. The walk takes approximately 10-15 minutes.
Public Transport

From Bridgetown, take the #27 bus towards Oistins. Alight at the Oistins Terminal. From the terminal, follow the walking directions. The bus fare is BDS$3.50.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Barbados. A taxi from Grantley Adams International Airport to Christ Church Parish Church will cost approximately BDS$39. From Bridgetown, expect to pay around BDS$53. Ensure the fare is agreed upon before starting the journey, as taxis do not operate on a meter system.

Discover more about Oistins

Perched on Church Hill Road, Christ Church Parish Church offers stunning views of Oistins Bay and a captivating glimpse into Barbados's history and mysteries. This isn't just a place of worship; it's a landmark that has survived centuries of natural disasters and unexplained phenomena.The original wooden church was built around 1629 near Dover Beach. A flood in 1669 swept it away, scattering graves and bones. Undeterred, a second church was built on the current site, only to be destroyed by the Great Hurricane of 1780. A third church followed, meeting its end in the hurricane of 1831. The fourth church was ravaged by fire in 1935. The present-day church, consecrated in 1935, incorporates three walls and the west tower from its predecessor.Adding to the church's allure is the legend of the Chase Vault. This vault, belonging to the Chase family, gained notoriety in the early 19th century when coffins inside were found mysteriously rearranged each time the vault was opened for a new burial. The coffins were said to have moved on four occasions, sparking fear and unrest. To this day, no one has been able to explain the strange occurrences, and the coffins now rest elsewhere in the graveyard, while the vault remains empty.Visitors can explore the churchyard, admire the architecture, and ponder the mysteries of the Chase Vault. The church's elevated location provides a panoramic vista of Oistins Bay, making it a worthwhile stop for history buffs, curious travelers, and those seeking a moment of reflection.