Garrison Historic Area

Barbados was the most vital British military base in the southern Caribbean in the seventeenth century, through the Napoleonic wars and beyond. This remained in place until the dawn of the twentieth century. There is much to explore here, mostly right around the Savannah and underneath too! 

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.  

sentires dressed in the zouave uniform

Tour: Historic Garrison, National Armoury Museum & Tunnels

This 3 hour walk and coach tour describes the attempted invasion of Barbados and the role of Barbados in the American War of Independence. It takes in George Washington House, the mysterious Garrison Tunnels, Charles Fort in Carlisle Bay, the Officers’ Mess for a drink and a tour of St. Ann’s Fort and the National Armoury Museum. The tour concludes at the Main Guard.

canons in the historic garrison

Book a Tour:

  • Email: jamesblades@caribsurf.com • (246) 233-2601 | 233-1648 
  • Adults BB$120 • Children 5-12yrs BB$90 (includes return transportation)
The Garrison Tunnels

Tour: George Washington House & The Garrison Tunnels

The very place where America’s first president George Washington spent 7 weeks in 1751 at the age of 19. He kept a detailed diary which is reflected in the small but interesting museum. Tour includes house, gardens, exhibit including cinema with a 16min documentary and access to the garrison tunnels built around 1820. Partial wheelchair access. The popular café has re-opened and is serving breakfast and lunch.