Exchange Museum: Uncover Barbados' Heritage

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Explore Barbados' captivating past through interactive exhibits on trade, currency, education, and Freemasonry in a historic Bridgetown landmark.

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Exchange Museum

The Exchange Museum, located in a beautifully restored 18th-century building in Bridgetown, Barbados, offers an engaging exploration of the island's history, focusing on its economic, social, and cultural development. Interactive exhibits delve into the history of trade, currency, education, and Freemasonry in Barbados.

A brief summary to Exchange Museum

Spry Street Bridgetown, Bridgetown, Saint Michael, BB11048, BB
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Monday 9 am-5 pm
Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
Thursday 9 am-5 pm
Friday 9 am-5 pm
Saturday 9 am-5 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Exchange Museum.

Explore the museum's exhibits at your own pace, or join a guided tour for a more in-depth understanding of the collections.
Check out the temporary exhibitions and events hosted throughout the year to see local artists and learn about Barbadian culture.
Visit the Church Village Green across the street for a quiet escape in the city center.

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Getting There

Walking

The Exchange Museum is centrally located on Spry Street in Bridgetown, making it easily accessible on foot. From National Heroes Square, walk south along Broad Street, then turn left onto Spry Street. The museum is on the right, within the Central Bank of Barbados courtyard. The walk is approximately 5 minutes.
Public Transport

The closest bus stops are near Woolworth and River Road, a short walk from the museum. From either stop, walk towards Broad Street and then turn onto Spry Street. The Exchange Museum will be on your right. A single bus fare is $3.50 BBD, payable in cash.
Driving

If driving, be aware that parking in central Bridgetown can be limited. Paid parking is available in several lots near the museum, with rates typically ranging from $1 to $2 BBD per hour. Look for parking along Church Street or in the lot behind the Central Bank of Barbados. Be mindful of parking restrictions on city streets to avoid fines.

Discover more about Exchange Museum

Located in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Historic Bridgetown, the Exchange Museum provides a captivating look into Barbados' rich past. Housed in a meticulously restored 18th-century building on Spry Street, the museum's location has a varied history, serving as Harrison's Free School from 1745 to 1871 and later as a Masonic Lodge from 1871 to 2005. The museum features interactive exhibits suitable for all ages. The Currency Exhibition explores the development of business and trade in Bridgetown since the 1700s, highlighting the contributions of early Black business owners and the evolution of currency in Barbados and the Caribbean. The School Exhibition recreates a 1950s classroom, offering a glimpse into the island's educational practices. The Freemasonry Exhibition explores the history of Freemasonry in Barbados and its influence on the island's political and social landscape, featuring information about prominent Barbadian politicians who were members.The Exchange Museum is supported by the Central Bank of Barbados and hosts temporary exhibitions and events throughout the year, showcasing local artists and different aspects of Barbadian culture.