Bridgetown

Bridgetown is the capital city of Barbados and the main shopping hub of the island.

Known locally as simply “Town” this is the only city in Barbados.

Full of history and architecture.

Things to see:

  • Barbados Museum, St. Ann’s Garrison, St. Michael (On the western edge of the race course). Housed in the former British Military Prison, the Barbados Museum is an excellent place to go to catch up on the history of the island though you’ll have the place to yourself. The exhibits start from the time the coral island first appeared; briefly cover the history of the indigenous people of Barbados; the arrival of Europeans and African slaves and the culture of the island during the colonial period; the emancipation of slaves; independence from the British; and more recent history. There is an interactive children’s section that the young ones will enjoy. A small concession serves cold drinks.
  • St. Mary’s Church, Bridgetown, Barbados. The current Georgian building was constructed in 1827 but there has been a church here since 1630. 
  • Careenage. Once a port for ships, the Careenage now houses restaurants, bars, and boutiques set in what used to be warehouses and and stores for ship supplies. Well protected from the open sea, walk along the Careenage with period buildings on one side and fishing and pleasure boats on the other, stop off for a rum at the Waterfront Cafe, and (with a bit of imagination!) you can almost step 150 years back in time!
  • Parliament, Broad Street, Barbados (Near Trafalgar Square). The neo-Gothic parliament buildings are open to the public when parliament is in session.
  • Broad Street
  • Swan Street
  • St. Mary’s Church
  • Cheapside Market