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St. Nicholas Abbey: A Timeless Plantation Experience

Discover Barbadian history and charm at St. Nicholas Abbey, a 17th-century Jacobean mansion, rum distillery, and plantation offering scenic train rides and award-winning rum tastings.

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Step back in time at St. Nicholas Abbey, a beautifully preserved 17th-century Jacobean mansion, rum distillery, and plantation in Barbados. Explore the Great House, wander through lush gardens, and witness the rum-making process from sugarcane to bottle. Take a ride on the St. Nicholas Abbey Heritage Railway for panoramic views of the island, including a stop at Cherry Tree Hill. Immerse yourself in Barbadian history and culture at this unique and captivating landmark, offering a glimpse into plantation life and the island's rich heritage. Don't miss the opportunity to sample award-winning rums and learn about the fascinating stories behind this historic estate, a true gem of the Caribbean.

A brief summary to St. Nicholas Abbey and Steam Railway

Local tips

  • Arrive early to fully experience the property, including the Great House, gardens, and a train ride, as tours are scheduled throughout the day, and the Abbey closes at 5:00 p.m.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the extensive grounds and gardens, and consider bringing an umbrella or raincoat, as the weather can be unpredictable.
  • Sample the St. Nicholas Abbey Rum, produced on-site using traditional methods, for a true taste of Barbados.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Bridgetown, take the 1A bus from the Barbarees Hill station towards Boscobelle. The bus departs hourly and the journey takes approximately 51 minutes. Get off at the Castle (Boscobelle) stop, which is about a 15-minute walk to St. Nicholas Abbey. The bus fare is $2 BBD.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Bridgetown, a taxi or ride-share to St. Nicholas Abbey takes approximately 25 minutes. Expect to pay between $50-$60 BBD for the trip.

  • Driving

    From Bridgetown, drive north on Highway 1. Continue onto Highway 2 and follow the signs to St. Nicholas Abbey. The drive is approximately 25 minutes. Parking is available at St. Nicholas Abbey and is included in the ticket price.

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Discover more about St. Nicholas Abbey and Steam Railway

St. Nicholas Abbey, nestled in the northern parish of St. Peter, Barbados, is more than just a historic site; it's a living testament to the island's rich and complex past. Built in 1658 by Colonel Benjamin Berringer, it stands as one of only three genuine Jacobean mansions in the Western Hemisphere, offering a rare glimpse into a bygone era. The estate encompasses a plantation house, museum, rum distillery, and the St. Nicholas Abbey Heritage Railway, providing a multifaceted experience for visitors. As you approach the Abbey, you're immediately struck by the grandeur of the Great House. Its Jacobean architecture, characterized by curved Dutch gables, chimney stacks, and coral stone finials, evokes the elegance of 17th-century England. Inside, the mansion is meticulously furnished with period antiques and heirlooms, transporting you back to the time of sugar barons and plantation life. Wander through the dining room, drawing room, and study, imagining the lives of the families who once called this place home. The history of St. Nicholas Abbey is as captivating as its architecture. The story is filled with tales of murder, love, and intrigue. Colonel Berringer's neighbor and business partner, Sir John Yeamans, had an affair with Berringer's wife, leading to a duel in which Berringer was killed. Yeamans then married the widow and claimed the Abbey, but Berringer's children later won back the property in court. The Abbey was named after George Nicholas, who married Berringer's granddaughter, Susanna. The property eventually passed through several families, including the Cumberbatch family, ancestors of the famous actor Benedict Cumberbatch. Beyond the Great House, the estate unfolds into a tapestry of natural beauty and historical significance. Explore the lush gardens, where tropical flora thrives alongside ancient mahogany and silk cotton trees. Discover the herb garden, designed in the traditional English style, and learn about the culinary and medicinal uses of the various herbs. Don't miss the 400-year-old sandbox tree in the courtyard, a silent witness to centuries of Barbadian history. A highlight of any visit to St. Nicholas Abbey is the rum distillery. Here, you can witness the rum-making process from sugarcane to bottle, a tradition that dates back to the 17th century. Learn about the history of rum in Barbados, often called the birthplace of rum, and sample the Abbey's award-winning rums. The distillery uses traditional methods and equipment, ensuring the highest quality and authenticity. For a truly unforgettable experience, hop aboard the St. Nicholas Abbey Heritage Railway. This restored steam engine takes you on a scenic journey through the plantation grounds, past the Great House, around a tranquil lake, and through mature mahogany woodlands. The tour culminates at Cherry Tree Hill, an elevated point offering breathtaking views of the island's rugged east coast. The narrated tour provides insights into the history of the property and the surrounding landscape. Cherry Tree Hill itself is a destination worth exploring. Originally lined with cherry trees, it was later planted with mahogany trees in 1763 to commemorate the Treaty of Paris. From this vantage point, you can admire the Scotland District, the Atlantic Ocean, and the longest beach on the island, Cattlewash Beach. St. Nicholas Abbey is not just a museum; it's a living, breathing entity that continues to evolve. The current owners, Larry and Anna Warren, have dedicated themselves to preserving the estate's heritage while also creating new experiences for visitors. They have built the Heritage Railway, expanded the rum production, and opened the Terrace Café, where you can enjoy lunch, tea, and other refreshments overlooking the plantation's beautiful gully. Visiting St. Nicholas Abbey is an immersive journey through Barbadian history, culture, and natural beauty. It's a place where you can connect with the past, appreciate the present, and look forward to the future. Whether you're a history buff, a rum enthusiast, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, St. Nicholas Abbey offers something for everyone. It's a must-see destination for any visitor to Barbados, a true gem of the Caribbean. To make the most of your visit, plan to spend at least two to three hours exploring the estate. Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking. Consider taking a guided tour of the Great House to learn more about its history and architecture. And don't forget to sample the rum! The St. Nicholas Abbey rum is a true taste of Barbados, crafted with passion and tradition. St. Nicholas Abbey is open Sunday to Friday, with varying hours depending on the season. Admission prices vary depending on the tour package you choose, but all include access to the Great House, gardens, and distillery. The Heritage Railway has separate tickets, or you can purchase a combo ticket that includes both. Bookings are not required, but it is recommended to arrive 30 minutes before departure times. Early arrival ensures a seat on the train and patrons can tour the house while awaiting departure and resume after the train ride. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, rum, or nature, St. Nicholas Abbey offers a unique and unforgettable experience. It's a place where you can step back in time, connect with the island's rich heritage, and create lasting memories.

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