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Barbados Museum

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Barbados Museum & Historical Society is a premier cultural institution housed within the historic walls of a former British military prison, dating back to 1817. Located within the St. Ann’s Garrison, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the museum was established in 1933 to preserve and showcase the island's multifaceted narrative. Its galleries take visitors on a journey through time, starting with the island’s unique coral formation and the arrival of the indigenous Amerindians, moving through the turbulent era of European settlement, the sugar trade, and emancipation. Highlights include a memorable collection of rare African artifacts, historic military uniforms, and fine art galleries featuring Caribbean artists. The building's architecture, with its sturdy stone walls and shaded courtyards, provides an evocative backdrop for the exhibits. More than just a collection of artifacts, the museum serves as a research hub for genealogy and social history, offering deep insights into the roots of Barbadian identity and the forces that shaped the Caribbean today.

Location: Barbados
Top sights: Garrison Savannah Racetrack · George Washington House (Barbados) · Saint Ann's Fort
Nearby: Oxnards (4 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	26	26	26	27	28	28	28	28	28	28	28	27
Rain mm	34	19	19	28	52	72	74	95	98	132	107	49

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Barbados Museum is housed in a former military prison and is open to the public. It preserves the natural and social history of the island.

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Typical hours

The museum is typically open Monday to Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm. Sundays and holidays may be closed.

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Photography

Photography without flash is allowed in the exhibition rooms. Flash is generally not permitted for conservation reasons.

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Time needed

A museum visit typically takes one to two hours. For a thorough viewing of all exhibits, allow two hours.

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Combine with

The museum is in Bridgetown, near National Heroes Square and the Parliament Buildings. Carlisle Bay beach is also not far.

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Getting there

The museum is in downtown Bridgetown, reachable on foot, by bus, or taxi. Paid parking is available nearby.

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Insider tip

Ask for the audio guide, which provides extra information on exhibits. The museum has a small gift shop with local crafts.

Geography

Coordinates

13.08030, -59.60470

Facts

Founded in 1933
Housed in former prison from 1817
Collection: over 500,000 objects
Exhibition area: 1,200 m²
Arawak artifacts from 500 CE
Part of UNESCO Garrison World Heritage site

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Barbados Museum & Historical Society<1 km · NEExplore →

Bridgetown Jewish Cemetery2 km · SEExplore →

Ilaro Court2 km · NEExplore →

Graeme Hall Nature Sanctuary2 km · NExplore →

Green Hill3 km · EExplore →

Pine Hill Dairy3 km · NExplore →

Hothersal Turning4 km · NEExplore →

Cave Hill4 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

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Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Barbados Museum (3)

Garrison Savannah Racetrack📍 landmark

Horse racing track in the historic garrison district of Bridgetown.

George Washington House (Barbados)📍 landmark

House where George Washington stayed in 1751 during his visit to Barbados.

Saint Ann's Fort📍 landmark

Historic 18th-century fort, now housing the ministry of defence.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What does the Barbados Museum showcase?

The island's history, from natural history to the colonial era.

Where is the museum located?

In a former British military prison within the Garrison area.

Is there a library there?

Yes, the Shilstone Memorial Library is an important research center.

Is the museum interesting for children?

Yes, there is a special children's gallery with interactive elements.

How much is the entrance fee?

Adults pay approximately 20-30 BBD, while children pay significantly less.

Barbados Museum: where is it located?

Barbados Museum is located in Barbados.

Barbados Museum: what is there to see?

Highlights include Garrison Savannah Racetrack, George Washington House (Barbados), Saint Ann's Fort.

Barbados Museum: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.

Barbados Museum: why is it worth visiting?

The Barbados Museum & Historical Society is a premier cultural institution housed within the historic walls of a former British military prison, dating back to 1817.

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