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St. Nicholas Abbey: A Timeless Plantation Experience

Discover Barbadian history, ride a scenic railway, and savor award-winning rum at the meticulously preserved St. Nicholas Abbey.

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St. Nicholas Abbey is a beautifully preserved Jacobean-style plantation house, distillery, and heritage railway offering a glimpse into Barbados' rich history and rum-making traditions. Visitors can explore the Great House, tour the distillery, ride a steam train to Cherry Tree Hill, and sample exquisite Barbadian rum.

A brief summary to St. Nicholas Abbey and Steam Railway

Local tips

  • Arrive early to allow ample time to explore the Great House, gardens, and distillery, especially if you plan to take the train ride.
  • Check the train schedule in advance and arrive at least 30 minutes prior to departure.
  • Consider the combo ticket for access to the Heritage Railway, Great House, and rum tour.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the grounds and climbing steps in the Great House.
  • Don't miss the gift shop for unique St. Nicholas Abbey rum and sugar products.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Bridgetown, take the Transport Board bus 1A towards Connell Town. The bus departs from the Barbarees Hill terminal hourly. The cost is $2 BBD. Alight at the Castle stop. From there, it is a short walk to St. Nicholas Abbey.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Barbados. A taxi from Bridgetown to St. Nicholas Abbey will cost approximately $50-$60 BBD and take around 25 minutes. Ensure the driver knows the location, as it is slightly off the main highway. There is ample parking available at St. Nicholas Abbey.

  • Driving

    From Bridgetown, follow Highway 1 north, then turn onto Highway 2. Follow the signs for St. Nicholas Abbey. The drive is approximately 25 minutes. There is ample parking available. Road signs are marked on most main roads to help you find it.

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Discover more about St. Nicholas Abbey and Steam Railway

St. Nicholas Abbey, located in St. Peter, Barbados, is more than just a historic site; it's an immersive journey into the island's captivating past. Built in 1658, this meticulously preserved Jacobean mansion stands as one of only three genuine examples of this architectural style in the Western Hemisphere. The estate offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a must-see destination for any visitor to Barbados. Visitors can explore the Great House, wander through the formal gardens, and witness the traditional rum-making process at the distillery. A highlight is the St. Nicholas Abbey Heritage Railway, a scenic train ride that takes you through the plantation grounds and up to Cherry Tree Hill, offering breathtaking views of the island's rugged east coast. The railway itself is a tribute to Barbados' railway history, which lasted from 1881 to 1937. The property produces award-winning rum, and visitors can enjoy a tasting of the various aged rums. The distillery tour provides insight into the traditional methods used to create these fine spirits. For a more in-depth experience, the owner and master distiller, Larry Warren, offers a personalized Rum Experience Tour. St. Nicholas Abbey is open Sunday to Friday, offering a variety of tours and experiences. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, rum, or simply enjoying the beautiful Barbadian landscape, St. Nicholas Abbey offers a memorable and enriching experience.

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