Background

Barbados Museum & Historical Society

Explore Barbados' captivating past at the Barbados Museum & Historical Society, housed in a historic military prison in Bridgetown's UNESCO World Heritage Site.

4.3

Housed in a 19th-century former British military prison, the Barbados Museum & Historical Society in Bridgetown showcases the island's rich history and culture through diverse collections and exhibits. Visitors can explore artifacts from Amerindian settlements to the modern era, gaining insights into the social, cultural, and natural history of Barbados.

A brief summary to Barbados Museum & Historical Society

  • 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

Local tips

  • Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds and enjoy a more personal experience.
  • Consider joining a guided tour for deeper insights into the exhibits and Barbadian history.
  • Check the museum's website for special exhibitions or events during your visit.
  • Explore the Garrison area after your visit; it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site with other historical attractions.
  • Take your time exploring the gardens after your museum visit; it's a lovely spot for photographs and reflection.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From the Fairchild Street Bus Terminal in Bridgetown, several bus routes serve Dalkeith Road, where the museum is located. Look for buses 11, 27, or 33. Bus trips cost $3.50 BBD for a one-way journey, payable in cash in local Barbados currency. Exact fare is required on Transport Board buses. The nearest bus station to the museum is Sda, a 3-minute walk away.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis are readily available throughout Bridgetown. A taxi ride from a central Bridgetown location to the Barbados Museum on Dalkeith Road typically costs between $15 to $20 BBD. Taxis in Barbados are regulated by the government and are based on set rates for specific routes. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the Garrison area or near the city center, walking to the Barbados Museum is a viable option. From the Garrison Savannah, walk along Dalkeith Road, heading east. The museum will be on your left.

Unlock the Best of Barbados Museum & Historical Society

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Barbados Museum & Historical Society

The Barbados Museum & Historical Society, established in 1933, is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich heritage of Barbados. Located on Dalkeith Road in Bridgetown, within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Historic Bridgetown and its Garrison, the museum is housed in a beautifully preserved 19th-century former British military prison, offering visitors a tangible connection to the island's past. The museum's collection boasts over 500,000 artifacts, providing a comprehensive look at Barbadian history from prehistoric times to the present day. The Jubilee Gallery explores the island's pre-historic origins and historic evolution, tracing the footsteps of the Amerindian peoples and the shift to a plantation society marked by African enslavement. The Warmington Gallery recreates the opulent lifestyle of a colonial Barbados plantation house, showcasing glassware, ceramics, silver, and fine art textiles from the 18th and 19th centuries. The Cunard Gallery is dedicated to fine art, with paintings and prints depicting colonial life, maritime traditions, and street scenes. Visitors can also explore galleries dedicated to the island's natural history, military history, and decorative arts. The Military Gallery pays tribute to the valor and sacrifice of Barbados' armed forces, displaying regalia, armaments, medals, and photographs. The museum's exhibits on slavery are both informative and moving, shedding light on the experiences of enslaved Africans and their descendants. The museum also explores the legacy of slavery in contemporary Barbadian society, promoting dialogue and understanding. The museum actively engages with the community through educational programs and outreach initiatives. Its extensive library and archives contain a wealth of information on Barbadian history, genealogy, and culture, welcoming researchers from around the world.

Popular Experiences near Barbados Museum & Historical Society

Popular Hotels near Barbados Museum & Historical Society

Select Currency