The Old Town Hall: A Glimpse into Bridgetown's Past
Discover the historical charm of Bridgetown's Old Town Hall, a resilient landmark that has witnessed centuries of Barbadian history and culture, now a beautifully restored commercial space.
The Old Town Hall in Bridgetown stands as a proud testament to Barbados' rich colonial history. Built in 1730, it is one of the few structures to survive the devastating fires and hurricanes that plagued the city in the 18th and 19th centuries. Originally serving as a multi-purpose building, it housed the Barbados Assembly, the Vestry, a town jail, and the office of Bridgetown's first mayor. The building played a crucial role in the island's governance and witnessed significant events, including speeches by national heroes like Clement Payne, who fought for the rights of the people. Though it fell into disrepair, the Old Town Hall was lovingly restored in 2003, preserving its architectural heritage and now functions as commercial offices. A visit offers a unique opportunity to connect with the island's past and appreciate the blend of history and culture that permeates Bridgetown.
A brief summary to Old Town Hall
- Bridgetown, Saint Michael, BB
Local tips
- Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds and have a more intimate experience with the historical site.
- Combine your visit with a walking tour of Bridgetown to explore other nearby historical landmarks and gain a deeper understanding of the city's past.
- Take a moment to appreciate the architectural details of the Old Town Hall, reflecting the blend of colonial influences and Caribbean craftsmanship.
Getting There
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Walking
The Old Town Hall is centrally located in Bridgetown and easily accessible on foot. From Heroes Square, head north on Broad Street. Turn left onto Cumberland Street. The Old Town Hall will be on your left, across from St. Mary's Anglican Church. This is a short walk of approximately 5 minutes, allowing you to take in the sights and sounds of the city.
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Public Transport
If arriving by public transport, use the Fairchild Street Bus Terminal or the Princess Alice Terminal, both within a 15-minute walk of the Old Town Hall. From either terminal, follow the directions for walking from Heroes Square. Bus fare is BDS$3.50 (approximately US$1.75), payable in local currency. Ensure you have the correct change, as drivers may not provide it.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available throughout Bridgetown. A short taxi ride from the cruise terminal or a hotel in the city center to the Old Town Hall will typically cost between BDS$15-20 (US$7.50-US$10). Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
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Driving
If driving, navigate to Cumberland Street in Bridgetown. Limited street parking is available nearby, but it can be challenging to find during peak hours. Paid parking lots are located within a short walking distance. Expect to pay around BDS$1-2 (US$0.50-US$1) per hour for parking. Be aware of one-way streets in the city center.
Discover more about Old Town Hall
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Bridgetown Duty Free Broad Street
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Wasn't Me Catamaran Cruises
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Montefiore Fountain
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National Heroes Square
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Parliament Buildings
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Unmissable attractions to see
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St Mary's Church
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Barbados Stamp mural
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Cool Runnings Catamaran Cruises
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Bridgetown Fish Market
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Walking Street
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Elegance Catamaran
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Blackwoods Screw Dock Barbados
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Dre's Bar Pelican Village Craft Centre
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The Nidhe Israel Synagogue & Museum
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The Nidhe Israel Synagogue and Museum
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Essential places to dine
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The Balcony Restaurant
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Tradewinds Restaurant and Bar
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De Office Cafe and Bar
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Tim's Restaurant
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Rolli's Bar and Grill
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The Boatyard Beach Club
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Lobster Alive
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Caf'e A La Mer
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LowTide Cafe
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Palm Grill & Bar
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
City Centre Mall
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The Bionic Shop
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No Limit Boutique
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Little Switzerland
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Limer's Bar
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