Arlington House Museum: A Journey Through Time in Speightstown
Discover Barbados' captivating history at Arlington House Museum in Speightstown. Interactive exhibits bring the island's past to life for all ages.
Arlington House Museum, nestled in the heart of Speightstown, St. Peter, Barbados, offers an immersive journey through the island's rich history. Housed in a restored 18th-century building, once home to wealthy merchants and a ship chandler, the museum provides a captivating glimpse into Barbados' past. The museum spans three floors, each dedicated to a different theme. "Speightstown Memories" explores the lives of the island's first settlers and the town's early days. "Plantation Memories" delves into the impact of colonization, the sugar industry, and slavery on Barbados. "Wharf Memories" recounts Speightstown's significance as a bustling port and trade center, complete with a talking pirate. Interactive exhibits, including sound effects, videos, and electronics, engage visitors of all ages. The museum also features an escape room experience that combines historical learning with problem-solving fun. Arlington House itself is architecturally significant, serving as a model for other merchant homes in 18th-century Speightstown. Its restoration has helped preserve the town's unique character and architectural heritage.
Local tips
- Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds and have a more relaxed experience.
- Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully explore all three floors of exhibits.
- Check out the gift shop for books on Barbadian history and unique souvenirs.
- Combine your visit with a stroll through Speightstown to admire the town's historic architecture.
A brief summary to Arlington House Museum
- Speightstown, Saint Peter, BB
- +1246-422-4064
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9 am-4 pm
- Friday 9 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9 am-3 pm
- Sunday 9 am-3 pm
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Bridgetown, take the #27 bus from the Lower Bank Hall Roxy station to Speightstown Terminal. The journey takes approximately 26 minutes and costs $2 BBD. Arlington House Museum is a short walk from the bus terminal.
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Walking
Arlington House Museum is located in the heart of Speightstown, a short walk from most points in the town. From the Speightstown bus terminal, walk north along Queen Street. The museum will be on your left. Walking allows you to appreciate the historic architecture of Speightstown.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in Barbados. A taxi from Bridgetown to Speightstown will cost approximately $40-$50 USD and take around 18 minutes. Ask the driver to take you to Arlington House Museum on Queen Street in Speightstown. Note that traffic flow changes have been implemented in Speightstown, with some streets becoming one-way.
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Driving
If driving from Bridgetown or Holetown, take Highway 1 north to Speightstown. Parking can be limited in Speightstown, but there is a small shopping center at the southern entrance to the town where parking may be available for customers. Designated two-hour maximum parking spaces may be found along Queen Street, Orange Street, and Sand Street. Be aware of one-way streets.
