Villa De Mar

Embarking on the scenic drive up the West Coast of Barbados, just before reaching the island's northern tip, you'll encounter the charming town of Speightstown in the parish of St Peter. Steeped in history, this town, over 350 years old, wears its colonial past proudly. Once a bustling port facilitating trade with Bristol in the United Kingdom, Speightstown earned the moniker "Little Bristol." Its significance as a fortified port during the 1650s, repelling the attempted invasion by Admiral Sir George Ayscue, is evident in the remnants of ancient cannons that still dot the coastline.

Speightstown's coastal allure offers enchanting spaces like the Speightstown Esplanade, a favourite among locals and visitors. With its stunning ocean views and shaded areas, it's the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk or a tranquil evening basking in the cooling Caribbean breeze, accompanied by a breathtaking sunset.

Delving deeper into Speightstown's colonial roots, architectural gems like Arlington House, constructed around 1750, stand as living landmarks. Transformed into a modern, interactive museum, the three floors narrate Speightstown's memories, plantation histories, and wharf tales. A testament to the town's resilience and evolution through time. Not to be missed is St Peter's Parish Church, an architectural marvel rooted in Barbadian history. Built in 1837, its Gothic-influenced Georgian style, fortified mediaeval tower, and incorporation of the number 7 in design make it a unique spiritual haven.

Exploring Speightstown extends beyond history and architecture. Local markets beckon with fresh fish, fruits, and vegetables, inviting conversations with friendly vendors. Nearby shopping centres offer a taste of village life, and dining options, like the renowned Fisherman's Pub, immerse you in authentic Bajan flavours.

Art enthusiasts will be captivated by the 'trompe l'oeil' mural adorning Jordan's Supermarket. Spanning 80 feet by 20 feet, the mural, a collaborative masterpiece by local artist Don Small and renowned muralist John Pugh, intricately weaves together symbols of Barbadian culture in a mesmerising visual spectacle.

Speightstown, the most northern Barbadian town, seamlessly blends its colonial heritage with modern vibrancy. While it may be a tranquil escape from the hustle of other areas on the island, the rich experiences it offers make the journey well worth it. In Speightstown, history, culture, and everyday life converge to create an authentic and unforgettable Barbadian experience.

Read more about Barbados

About Barbados

At first glance you could be mistaken for thinking that Barbados is purely a beach holiday destination, but you're urged to reconsider this common belief. The island of Barbados is peppered with astonishing landscapes (both coastal and inland), enchanting locals, sublime cuisine, intriguing rums, fascinating wildlife, symbolic architecture and a selection of striking holiday villas.

Delve deep into the history of the island and start your holiday by visiting Sunbury Plantation House & Museum. This former plantation was built in 1660's and the premises are scattered with antiquities that delicately detail a recent history of Barbados. St. Nicholas Abbey also provides an insightful representation of Sugarcane production, Bajan artefacts and a wonderful observation point at Cherry Tree Hill. If you’re keen to visit one of the oldest Parliamentary buildings within the Commonwealth and appreciate the democratic legacy of Barbados, drop by The Parliament Buildings. This neo-gothic congress can be found in Bridgetown and act as a representation of Barbados’s Independence. There is so much history present throughout the island and as a result, Bridgetown and its Garrison has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, which the locals are very proud of.

Great efforts have been made to persevere the natural beauty of Barbados, so if you’re drawn to the exploration of National Parks and multicoloured gardens, it won’t take you long to realise that Barbados is a haven for such paradises! Within the Andromeda Botanic Gardens, Farley Hill National Park, Flower Forest, Hunte's Gardens and Welchman Hall Gully - visitors, and Botanist alike, will be lost for hours admiring these astonishing botanical parklands. Keep an eye out for the Pride of Barbados… it’s the national flower of Barbados.

Bajan’s take their food very seriously! If you and your fellow travellers are enticed by the gastronomic aspect of holidaying, we believe you’ve selected the right island. With every aspect of cookery mastered; from pickling to freshly prepared dishes, sweet & savoury, fragrant & spicy and of course, the bountiful choice of seafood. Check out the food stalls in Paynes Bay Church – where vendors exhibit locally made dishes & street food that will scintillate the taste buds. At the end of every working week, locals and tourists both flock to Oistins, for 'Fish Fry Day'. This is a must for those who haven’t undergone the experience! The evening starts with barbecues and then ascends into a joyful party. This caps off a busy few days of work for locals as well as the 'strains' associated with serious holidaying.

Barbados is of course iconic for its Beaches & Rum…so why not bring them together? You will have to go out of your way not to be able to find a beach bar along the west coast of the island, as well as the countless Rum Shops. Yes, you’ve read correctly, Rum Shops! These small and locally run businesses embrace the Bajan spice of life, in liquid form. Very delicious! If you’re searching for something a little more special, take a trip to the east coast and visit Sand Dunes Bar and Restaurant at Windy Hill, for an unforgettable experience.

Barbados is a distinct and striking part of the Caribbean. It’s a great fit for all types of travellers, as the island really does have it all. For a little more information about this delightful island, check out our guide to a remarkable stay!

Prior to Booking

Please be aware that Barbados is an island nation that experiences weather patterns dictated by the Atlantic Ocean to the north of the island and the Caribbean Sea to the south of the island. This tropical rainforest climate results in the island experiencing a hurricane season, which usually occurs between June to November. When thinking about booking your holiday to Barbados, please consult Foreign travel advice for more information.

Entry Requirements

Tourists who are British Citizens will not require a visa upon arrival and Departure Tax is included in most flight costs. Please check Entry Requirements before departure.

Getting There

Barbados is served by Grantley Adams International Airport in Bridgetown.

From the US:
Direct flights are available from Charlotte, Miami and New York with AA, JetBlue and US Airways.

From the UK:
Direct flights are available from London on BA and Virgin Atlantic. Chartered flights are also available from several other UK airports.

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Grantley Adams International Airport, Christ Church, Barbados: 

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