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Chamberlain Bridge: A Gateway to Bridgetown's Charm

Cross the historic Chamberlain Bridge in Bridgetown, a landmark connecting Barbados's vibrant past and present, adorned with national symbols.

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Chamberlain Bridge is a landmark in the heart of Bridgetown, Barbados, offering passage over the Careenage and a glimpse into the island's history. Named after Joseph Chamberlain, it connects the city's past with its present, standing as a testament to Barbadian resilience and progress.

A brief summary to Independence Arch

  • Chamberlain Bridge, Bridgetown, Saint Michael, BB
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Take a stroll along the Bridgetown boardwalk west of the bridge for scenic waterfront views.
  • Visit Independence Square at the southern end of the bridge for a relaxing break.
  • Look for the Independence Arch at the bridge's southern end, adorned with Barbadian national symbols.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From most points within central Bridgetown, Chamberlain Bridge is easily accessible on foot. ориентируйтесь на Careenage (Constitution River); the bridge is a prominent crossing point. The walk is generally flat and takes approximately 5-15 minutes from key areas like Broad Street or Heroes Square. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    Local buses frequently serve Bridgetown. Look for bus stops along major roads like Broad Street or Swan Street. Board a bus heading towards the 'Careenage' or 'Bridgetown Waterfront' and ask the driver to be let off at Chamberlain Bridge. The standard bus fare is BDS$3.50 (approximately US$1.75). From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the bridge.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis are readily available throughout Bridgetown. Hail a taxi or use a ride-sharing app to request a ride to Chamberlain Bridge. Taxi fares within Bridgetown typically range from BBD 15-20 (approximately US$7.50-US$10), depending on distance and traffic. Ensure the taxi is licensed (blue license plate starting with 'Z').

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Discover more about Independence Arch

Chamberlain Bridge, situated in the vibrant capital city of Bridgetown, is more than just a crossing; it's a symbol of Barbados's enduring spirit and rich history. Spanning the Careenage, a marine inlet vital to the island's commerce for centuries, the bridge provides access to the inner basin, a safe harbor for catamarans and fishing boats. Originally constructed as a swing bridge in 1872, it was named in honor of Joseph Chamberlain, the British Colonial Secretary who played a key role in securing financial aid for Barbados after the devastating hurricane of 1898. The original swing bridge was manually operated by two men. In 2006, the outdated steel structure was replaced with a modern lifting bridge, featuring a single-leaf bascule design made from fiber-reinforced plastic. This upgrade ensures the bridge remains a functional and aesthetically pleasing landmark for years to come. At the southern end of Chamberlain Bridge stands the Independence Arch, erected in 1987 to commemorate Barbados's 21st anniversary of independence. Adorned with national symbols like the flying fish, pelican, and the Pride of Barbados flower, the arch embodies the island's heritage and culture. The Coat of Arms of Barbados crowns the arch, bearing the motto "Pride and Industry". Nearby, Independence Square offers a tranquil space to relax and observe the boats navigating the Careenage. A stroll along the Bridgetown boardwalk to the west of the bridge is also highly recommended.

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