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Greenwood Great House: A Glimpse into Jamaica's Plantation Era

Step back in time at Greenwood Great House, a beautifully preserved 18th-century plantation home with stunning views and fascinating history.

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Perched high in the hills near Montego Bay, Greenwood Great House offers a captivating journey into Jamaica's colonial past. This well-preserved 18th-century plantation house showcases antique furnishings, rare musical instruments, and a rich family history, providing an intimate and authentic experience of a bygone era.

A brief summary to Greenwood Great House

Local tips

  • Visit during the week to avoid crowds and enjoy a more intimate tour experience.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves walking through the house and grounds.
  • Bring your camera to capture the stunning architecture, antique collections, and panoramic views.
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Getting There

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Montego Bay or Falmouth, taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available. A taxi from Montego Bay to Greenwood Great House typically costs between US$40-US$60, and the journey takes approximately 40 minutes. From Falmouth, the taxi fare is around US$30-US$45, with a travel time of about 25 minutes. Be sure to negotiate the fare before starting your journey. There are no tolls on this route.

  • Driving

    If driving from Montego Bay, take the A1 coastal highway east towards Falmouth. Turn right into Greenwood and follow the signs for Greenwood Great House. The house is located one mile from the main road. Be aware that the secondary roads may have some bumps. From Falmouth, take the A1 highway west towards Montego Bay and turn left into Greenwood. Follow the signs uphill to the Great House. Parking is available on site.

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Discover more about Greenwood Great House

Greenwood Great House, located between Montego Bay and Falmouth, is a window into Jamaica's plantation era. Built in the 1780s by Richard Barrett, a cousin of the famous poet Elizabeth Barrett Browning, the house stands as a testament to the Barrett family's wealth and influence. Unlike many great houses in Jamaica, Greenwood survived the slave rebellion of 1831 unscathed, largely due to the Barrett's relatively humane treatment of their enslaved workers. Inside, visitors can explore rooms filled with original furniture, rare books dating back to 1697, and a remarkable collection of musical instruments. Highlights include a piano that once belonged to King Edward VII and a working barrel organ. The house also features a library with over 300 books, some signed by members of the Barrett family, and a 1626 map of Africa. Today, Greenwood Great House functions as a museum, offering guided tours that delve into the history of the Barrett family, the realities of plantation life, and the unique artifacts within the house. The house is a national monument, carefully restored and maintained to preserve its original splendor. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea from the upper balcony, providing a stunning backdrop to their historical exploration.

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