St. James Parish Church: A Historic Gem in Holetown
Discover Barbados' oldest church in Holetown, a serene sanctuary of history, stunning architecture, and tranquil gardens. A must-see cultural landmark.
St. James Parish Church, located in Holetown, is the oldest church in Barbados, dating back to the island's first English settlement in 1627. Rebuilt in 1874, it houses a bell predating the American Liberty Bell and stands as a testament to Barbadian history and resilience.
A brief summary to St. James Parish Church
- Highway 1, Holetown, Folkestone, Saint James, BB
- +1246-422-4117
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit on a Sunday for services at 7:15 am or 9:00 am to experience the church's spiritual atmosphere.
- Explore the churchyard to discover historic tombstones and learn about early Barbadian settlers.
- Look for the 'Devil's Gate' on the north wall and learn about the local legends associated with it.
- Check the church's website or local listings for special events like garden parties or concerts.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the adjacent Folkestone Marine Park for snorkeling and underwater exploration.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Bridgetown, the most economical way to reach St. James Parish Church is by bus. Several bus routes operated by the Transport Board run from the Barbarees Hill terminal in Bridgetown to Holetown every 15 minutes. Look for routes such as 1C, 27, or others heading towards Holetown. The journey takes approximately 25-27 minutes. The bus will drop you off at Holetown-FStone, a short walk from the church. The bus fare is $3.50 BBD per person.
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Taxi
Taxis offer a direct and convenient way to reach St. James Parish Church. They are readily available throughout Barbados, especially in Bridgetown and at the Grantley Adams International Airport. A taxi ride from Bridgetown to St. James Parish Church typically takes about 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around $62 BBD from Bridgetown. From a closer location like Paynes Bay, the fare will be approximately $20-$25 BBD. Taxis are identifiable by the 'Z' on their license plates. Ride-sharing services are not common, so taxis are the reliable option.
Discover more about St. James Parish Church
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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The Hole / Indian River
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Unmissable attractions to see
Folkestone Marine Park & Visitors' Centre
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Public Entrance - Sandpiper Beach
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Petrea Gardens
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Jamestown Park
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Colony Club Beach
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Holetown Methodist Church
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Holetown Beach
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Holetown
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Essential places to dine
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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JuJu's Beach bar
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