Welchman Hall Gully: A Collapsed Cave Paradise

Welchman Hall Gully, located in the parish of St. Thomas, is a captivating natural wonder in the heart of Barbados. This three-quarter-mile-long gully is a testament to the island's rich history and biodiversity. Unlike the typical sandy beaches Barbados is known for, Welchman Hall Gully offers a tranquil escape into a lush tropical forest, inviting visitors to explore a world shaped by time and nature.Originally part of a cave system, Welchman Hall Gully was formed over a million years ago when the roofs of these caves collapsed, creating a dramatic ravine. Evidence of its former cave structure can still be seen in the ravine. Throughout the gully, you'll see evidence of the same types of stalactites and stalagmites found in Harrison's Cave. The gully is still geologically connected to Harrison's Cave.In the 17th century, the land was owned by a Welshman named General William Asygell Williams, hence the name Welchman Hall Gully. Williams, a former soldier, cultivated the land, planting exotic trees and an orchard, including the grapefruit, which is believed to have originated here. The first reference to the grapefruit was in 1750, when it was described by Rev Griffith Hughes, a botanist, as the Forbidden Fruit of Barbados. Today, the gully is home to over 150 species of plants and trees, creating a vibrant tapestry of green that delights the senses.Welchman Hall Gully is also home to a troop of Barbados Green Monkeys. Most days, particularly in the mornings, you can see them playing in their natural environment. The monkeys are fed daily between 10:30 am and noon on a specially built platform near the gully entrance. Please do not put out your own food or feed the monkeys by hand.Welchman Hall Gully is more than just a tourist attraction; it's a place of conservation and education. The Barbados National Trust acquired the gully in 1962 and works to protect its biodiversity and promote environmental awareness. The gully also hosts summer camps for children, teaching them about nature and the importance of conservation.