St. Nicholas Abbey: A Journey Through Barbadian History
Discover Barbadian heritage at St. Nicholas Abbey, a 1658 Jacobean mansion with a working rum distillery, scenic railway, and stunning views from Cherry Tree Hill.
St. Nicholas Abbey, a beautifully preserved Jacobean mansion dating back to 1658, offers a captivating glimpse into Barbados's rich history and culture. More than just a museum, it's a working plantation where visitors can witness the traditional process of sugar cane milling and rum distillation. Explore the Great House, wander through lush gardens, and ride the Heritage Railway for panoramic views. With its stunning architecture, historical significance, and immersive experiences, St. Nicholas Abbey provides an unforgettable journey into the heart of Barbadian heritage. It's a place where the past comes alive, offering a unique perspective on the island's colonial history and its enduring spirit. Don't miss the opportunity to sample the estate's own rum, a true taste of Barbados.
A brief summary to St. Nicholas Abbey and Steam Railway
- Cherry Tree Hill St. Peter, Saint Peter, BB26007, BB
- +1246-422-5357
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the sugar cane season (January to May) to see the syrup factory in operation and experience the traditional sugar-making process.
- Take the Heritage Railway tour for panoramic views of the plantation and the island's rugged east coast from Cherry Tree Hill.
- Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the Great House, gardens, distillery, and other attractions on the estate.
- Sample the St. Nicholas Abbey Rum, a signature product of the plantation, and learn about the rum-making process.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the grounds, as there is a lot to see and discover.
Getting There
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Driving
From the Grantley Adams International Airport or Bridgetown, follow the main highways (Highway 1 or Highway 2) north towards St. Peter. Look for signposts directing you to Cherry Tree Hill and St. Nicholas Abbey. The drive is approximately 25-35 minutes from Bridgetown. Parking is available on-site.
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Public Transport
From Bridgetown, take the 1A or 1E bus towards Speightstown or Boscobelle. The bus ride takes approximately 1 hour. Alight at the 'Castle (Boscobelle)' bus stop. From there, it's approximately a 15-minute walk to St. Nicholas Abbey. Bus fare is $2 BBD per person.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Barbados. A taxi from Bridgetown to St. Nicholas Abbey will cost approximately $50-$60 BBD and take around 25 minutes. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
Discover more about St. Nicholas Abbey and Steam Railway
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Scotland View Bar&Variety
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Saint Clement's Church, Barbados
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Saint Andrew Parish Church
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Unmissable attractions to see
St.Nicholas Abbey Destillerie
0.3 km
Discover Barbadian heritage at St. Nicholas Abbey: Explore a Jacobean mansion, tour a traditional rum distillery, and ride a scenic railway.
Cherry Tree Hill Reserve
0.5 km
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Professional Scammer
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Magnetic Hill
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Cherry Tree Hill
1.2 km
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Barbados Wildlife Reserve
1.2 km
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Grenade Hall Forest & Signal Station
1.2 km
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Farley Hill National Park
1.6 km
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Morgan Lewis Windmill
1.7 km
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Ride Barbados
1.8 km
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Pico Teneriffe
2.4 km
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Morgan Lewis Beach
2.4 km
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Cove Bay
2.9 km
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Cove Yard
3.2 km
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Mount Gay Rum Distillery
3.3 km
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Essential places to dine
It's a Mirage
1.4 km
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Angie’s Kitchen
3.6 km
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LK's Hideaway & Kitchen
3.8 km
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Sharad's Bar & Grill
4.2 km
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Sand Dunes
4.4 km
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11 Parishes Sports Bar & Restaurant
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Pizza Mania
5.2 km
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La Salsa
5.4 km
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Pitstop Bar and Grill
5.5 km
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The Chattel Bar, Caribbean Restaurant
5.5 km
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Black Bess Canteen
5.6 km
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Hidden Bar + Grill
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The Black Urchin
5.8 km
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The Haymans Social
5.9 km
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Pizza Bums (Mobile Location)
6.1 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Village Vine Variety aka ( C Variety Kiosks)
1.4 km
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Tt's_creations246
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Brie's Minimart
3.2 km
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Sol Shop Convenience Store
3.8 km
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Chataik Boutique
3.8 km
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Junction Hardware
3.9 km
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Trimart Supermarket, Mile & A Quarter
4.0 km
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Island Naturals Boutique
4.3 km
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Weekes Variety
5.1 km
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Sobers Cool Spot
5.8 km
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Saint Luke Barbados
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Haymans Market
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THE STUDIO x Regal Organic Therapy
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Simply Essential Barbados
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Treats By Legacy
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sunset Bar
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The Constitution Bar
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Date Tree Delight
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Nigel Benn Aunty Bar
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Cane Hole Bar
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Brie's Bar
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Leslie's Bar
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Wizzard's Bar
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Bishops Tenantry
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Rockfield Variety & Bar
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Big Don Food & Bar
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Candales Outback
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P&M Variety Shop & Bar
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Tiki Bar
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Coast to Coast Bar & Restaurant
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
De Club Bar, Benn Hill
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Little Bristol Beach Bar
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Jus’ Chillin’ Bar
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BAREFOOT IN THE BAR
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Drunken Lobster
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Ackee Tree Bar
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Babbie's Cool Spot
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Animal Flower Cave & Restaurant
7.0 km
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De Corner Bar
7.1 km
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Hindzz Bar
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Royal Westmoreland Beach Club
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Larry Rogers at Mullins Bay
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Adrian’s bar
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John Moore Bar
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Judy's Watering Hole Rum Shop
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