Mount Gay Visitors' Centre: A Journey Through Rum History
Experience the heritage of the world's oldest rum distillery, with tours, tastings, and a deep dive into Barbadian culture.
The Mount Gay Visitors' Centre in Bridgetown offers an immersive experience into the rich history and production of Mount Gay Rum, the world's oldest commercial rum distillery, with its roots tracing back to 1703. More than just a distillery tour, it's a celebration of Barbadian heritage and the enduring legacy of this iconic spirit. Visitors are welcomed into a vibrant and engaging space where they can delve into the history of Mount Gay Rum through interactive exhibits showcasing artifacts, vintage bottles, and captivating narratives. The tour guides provide insights into the rum-making process, from sugarcane harvesting to fermentation, distillation, and aging in oak barrels, highlighting the importance of local ingredients and time-honored techniques. A highlight of the visit is the tasting session, where guests can sample a selection of Mount Gay's signature rums, guided by knowledgeable staff who explain the nuances of each blend. The Visitors' Centre also explores the brand's connection to sailing and Barbadian culture, emphasizing its role as the 'spirit of sailing'. Different tour options are available, including the Signature Rum Tasting Experience, Cocktail Workshop, and Bajan Buffet Lunch Tour.
Local tips
- Check the Mount Gay Rum website for tour schedules and to book in advance, especially during peak season.
- Consider taking a taxi or shuttle if you're not staying in Bridgetown, as public transport can be crowded.
- Wear comfortable shoes for the tour, as you'll be doing some walking.
- Remember that the legal drinking age in Barbados is 18.
- Explore the gift shop for unique Mount Gay Rum merchandise and souvenirs.
A brief summary to Mount Gay Visitors' Centre
- Exmouth Gap, 497F+4F6 Mighty Grynner Highway, Bridgetown, Saint Michael, BB
- +1246-227-8862
- Visit website
- Monday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-4:30 pm
Getting There
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Walking
If you are near the Bridgetown Cruise Terminal or in the city center, the Mount Gay Visitors' Centre is easily accessible by foot. Head west along the Mighty Grynner Highway. The center is located on Exmouth Gap, a short walk from Brandons Beach. Allow approximately 15-20 minutes for a leisurely walk from the city center.
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Public Transport
From various points in Barbados, you can take a public bus to Bridgetown and then transfer to a bus that stops near Brandons Beach or the Mighty Grynner Highway. Blue buses with a yellow stripe are operated by the Barbados Transport Board. The bus fare is BDS$3.50 (approximately US$1.75). Princess Alice Terminal and Fairchild Street Terminal are two main bus terminals in Bridgetown. From the bus stop, walk west along the highway to Exmouth Gap.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available throughout Barbados. A taxi from the Bridgetown Cruise Terminal to the Mount Gay Visitors' Centre will cost approximately BDS$19. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Tipping is customary, around 10% of the fare.
Attractions Nearby to Mount Gay Visitors' Centre
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Seaduced Luxury Charters
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Brandons Beach
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Boyceterous Watersports
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Calabaza Sailing Cruises
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Tide Dancer Luxury Charter
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Prestige Catamaran
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Atlantis Submarines
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Atlantis Submarines Barbados
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Rascals of Barbados , Restaurant & Waterpark
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Silver Moon Catamaran Cruises
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Tiami Catamaran Cruises
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Rascals
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Rihanna Drive Monument
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Kensington Oval
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Cricket Legends of Barbados
Landmarks nearby to Mount Gay Visitors' Centre
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Harvest Bible Chapel Barbados
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Mighty Gyrner Monument
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Reverend sir wesly winfield hall statue
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Cruise Terminal
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Pelican Island Historic Site
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Barbados Stamp mural
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Barbados
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St Mary's Church
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Old Town Hall
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Montefiore Fountain
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Codd's House Monument
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The Nidhe Israel Synagogue and Museum
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Walking Street
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Carlisle Wharf Plaza
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Bridgetown Duty Free Broad Street