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Main Guard House and Clock Tower: A Garrison Timekeeper

Explore Barbados' military past at the Main Guard House and Clock Tower, a landmark in Bridgetown's UNESCO World Heritage Garrison Historic Area.

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The Main Guard House and Clock Tower in Bridgetown is a historic military building dating back to the early 1800s. Once the central command post for the British military, it now stands as a museum showcasing Barbados' colonial past and architectural grandeur.

A brief summary to Main Guard House and Clock Tower

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience.
  • Check for any special events or exhibitions that may enhance your visit.
  • If visiting on a Thursday, be sure to catch the changing of the sentry ceremony at noon.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Main Guard House and Clock Tower is located within the Garrison Historic Area in Bridgetown. If you are already in the Garrison area, walking is a convenient way to reach it. From the Barbados Museum & Historical Society, walk east along the Garrison Savannah. The Main Guard House will be on your left, across the street from St. Ann's Fort. There are no specific costs associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    If starting from Bridgetown city center, you can take a public bus to the Garrison area. Buses leave from the Fairchild Street and Princess Alice Highway terminals. Look for buses that pass through the Garrison, such as routes 12A, 13B, 16A, 33, or 51. The bus fare is BBD 3.50. Alight near the Garrison Savannah and walk towards the Main Guard House.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Bridgetown. A short taxi ride from the city center to the Main Guard House will cost approximately BBD 20.00 as a starting price, plus BBD 3.80 per kilometer. Ensure the driver is using Barbados dollars and agree on the fare before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Main Guard House and Clock Tower

The Main Guard House and Clock Tower, located in the Garrison Historic Area of Bridgetown, is a significant landmark that offers a glimpse into Barbados' colonial and military history. Constructed in the early 19th century, around 1802, the Georgian-style building served as the headquarters for the British West India Regiment. The building's architecture reflects its British colonial design, with a striking clock tower that has become a recognizable symbol of Bridgetown. The facade features the coat of arms of King George III, carved from Coade stone. Today, the Main Guard House functions as a museum, displaying artifacts, documents, and exhibits that narrate the island's strategic importance and military history during the colonial period. Visitors can explore the exhibits, learn about the lives of the soldiers stationed at the Garrison, and gain insights into Barbados' past. The Garrison Historic Area, where the Main Guard House is located, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with other historical landmarks and cultural treasures. The Garrison Savannah, a sprawling green space adjacent to the Main Guard House, has been used as a parade ground and a horse racing track. If visiting on a Thursday, don't miss the changing of the sentry ceremony at noon, featuring military veterans in traditional Zouave uniforms.

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