Explore the Historic Garrison

By

Ins & Outs of Barbados

March 27, 2020

There is plenty to explore in the Garrison Historic Area where sturdy but elegant Georgian military buildings surround one of the oldest racetracks in the world.

The Barbados Museum

Based in the splendid old military prison, the Barbados Museum depicts the island’s rich and fascinating history, including its African heritage. Children can use a state of the art interactive gallery.

The Children's Gallery at the Barbados Museum

Changing of the Sentry

This takes place in front of the 1804 Main Guard (Clock Tower) at the Historic Garrison every Thursday at 12 noon. An authentic staging of an activity that would have been performed numerous times a day in the 19th century.

It is presented by the ‘Sentries & Corp of Drums of Barbados’ (retired or current servicemen). The Sentries dress in the distinctive Zouave uniform; originally selected for the famous West India Regiments by Queen Victoria in 1856.

The George Washington Attraction

George Washington only once ventured out of America and that was when he visited Barbados in 1751. The house he stayed in has been renovated as The George Washington Attraction.

The house where George Washington stayed

Open 7 days a week from 9am until 4pm, the museum tour includes an interesting film about Washington’s visit, as well as a chance to explore the recently rediscovered network of ‘secret’ tunnels running beneath the Garrison.

The Garrison Tunnels

Private ‘Dinners with George’ can be booked for up to 30 people. Their popular café opens at 7am.

Dinner With George at the George Washington Attraction

A 3-hour Garrison Tour of the whole area is offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays, including St. Ann’s Fort and the National Armoury & Cannon Museum which houses the world’s finest collection of 17th century English iron cannon. The end of the tour occasionally coincides with the Changing of the Sentry Ceremony.

Contact James Blades on 233-2601 or Peter Stevens 233-1648.