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George Washington House: A Journey into Colonial Barbados

Step back in time at the only place outside the USA where George Washington lived, exploring colonial life and historic Garrison Tunnels.

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Explore the only house outside the United States where George Washington resided, offering a glimpse into 18th-century Barbadian life and Washington's formative experiences. The beautifully restored house features period furnishings, museum exhibits, and access to the historic Garrison Tunnels.

A brief summary to George Washington House

Local tips

  • Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds.
  • Allow at least 1.5 - 2 hours to fully explore the house, museum, and tunnels.
  • Take advantage of the self-guided audio tour available in six languages.
  • Enjoy a meal or snack at the on-site cafe, offering South American and Caribbean cuisine.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From the Bridgetown city center (Fairchild Street Terminal), take any bus heading towards the Garrison or Hastings. These buses frequently travel along Highway 7. Disembark at the Garrison Historic Area stop. From there, it's a short walk to George Washington House. Bus fare is BBD 4.00.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Bridgetown. A taxi ride from the Bridgetown cruise terminal or city center to George Washington House takes approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay between BBD 26.00 and BBD 34.00 for the ride.

  • Walking

    If you are in Bridgetown, you can walk to George Washington House. From the city center, head towards the Garrison Historic Area, which is about a 45-minute walk. Follow the main roads and look for signs directing you to the Garrison. Once you reach the Garrison area, George Washington House will be clearly marked.

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Discover more about George Washington House

George Washington House, located in Bridgetown, Barbados, is a beautifully restored 18th-century plantation house where a young George Washington and his ailing brother Lawrence resided in 1751. This is the only house outside the continental United States where the future first president of the United States ever lived. Washington's six-week stay in Barbados profoundly impacted his future leadership, military outlook, and worldview. The house, also known as Bush Hill House, has been meticulously restored and furnished to reflect a typical, yet not lavish, plantation residence of the mid-18th century. Visitors can explore the ground floor's period furnishings, offering a glimpse into the daily life of a wealthy Barbadian family during that era. The second floor houses an interactive museum that delves into the rich cultural heritage of the island during the 17th and 18th centuries, including its connection to the transatlantic slave trade. One of the highlights of a visit is the opportunity to explore a section of the historic Garrison Tunnels. These tunnels, originally built in the 1820s as a drainage system, were later adapted as escape routes for the British Garrison troops. Visitors can venture 200 feet into the subterranean corridor and learn about the military history of the area. A visit to George Washington House also includes a viewing of a 16-minute docudrama about George Washington's visit to Barbados. The on-site cafe serves a unique blend of Latin and Caribbean cuisines.

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