Hunte's Gardens
Hunte's Gardens
5
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
About
You might hear this garden before you see it, its delightfully eccentric owner, Anthony Hunte BCH, plays classical music throughout the garden. This is the working end of old Castle Grant plantation, where sugar cane was once processed into syrup. Step through the gate and you'll soon tread on the old weigh bridge, where loads of cane were tallied. Just past the old stone outbuildings, where statues lurk among exotic plants, you'll find yourself on the lip of a great, hemispherical sinkhole in the limestone substrate. Steps lead down and paths branch out through an exquisite profusion of flowering plants, with towering trees around the edges. Both here and farther along the top are a series of small secret gardens, where you can sit to absorb the serenity and enjoy a picnic. Be sure to climb the upper level steps to Mr. Hunte's house, a transformation of the old stables. He'll invite you for refreshments-including his legendary rum punch or freshly made lemonade (for sale).
Duration: < 1 hour
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- Peter SLondon, United Kingdom204 contributionsMagical placeA very beautiful and tranquil place. The planting is sensational and the background music is perfectly pitched. Lots of seating to sit and just relax although some of the seats could benefit from a clean. When we went Mr Hunte wasn’t there so we didn’t get the chance to talk and enjoy a drink as some reviewers have said. It’s well worth a visitVisited September 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 8 October 2023
- Christopher P1 contributionA plant lovers paradiseA wonderful tropical garden. Stunning array of beautiful plants, shrubs and tropical trees! All accompanied by tranquil music. A lovely cafe provided refreshments in an open sided former stable. Everyone was welcomed by the owner and creator, Anthony Hunte. We were even offered a little taste of his specially produced rum! Its a must see trip we can definitely recommend.Visited October 2023Travelled with familyWritten 24 October 2023
- Daniella80London, United Kingdom488 contributionsPeaceful and beautifulVisited Hunte’s gardens few days ago and absolutely loved it. The garden itself is not huge. However, it’s absolutely stunning and well worth visiting. You can see how much work and effort goes into maintaining the areas and looking after beautiful plants. It’s well laid out with lots of colours around. We enjoyed our walk very much.Visited October 2023Travelled with familyWritten 24 October 2023
- Kelly S2 contributionsMost wonderful place on the planetThe most beautiful place on the planet. I have never been at such peace. What a beautiful place to visit. The gift shop was very cute and original. The man who owns the gardens, Mr. Hunte was very hospitable. Makes some delicious rum. A place you have to put on your bucket list.Visited October 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 29 October 2023
- Sophie W1 contributionA Garden like no other!What a unique and utterly breathtaking experience! Beautiful gardens to explore with lots of seating along the way, in which to sit and enjoy the views. Anthony Hunte has created a magical garden and is the perfect host. Lots of local crafts to buy in the gift shop.Visited November 2023Travelled with familyWritten 1 November 2023
- anniepepper123Lincoln, United Kingdom11 contributionsParadise GardensAlthough visited Island many times but never been here - outstanding venue. Such a beautifully designed garden not suitable for people with any form a disability (eg wheelchairs or walking difficulties) and you need your best foot forward as you descend into this tropical paradise - very humid as you get lower but designed so there are many seating areas where you can enjoy the peace. Meet Mr Hunt at the end of your tour and enjoy a tot of Hunts Rum with him.Visited October 2023Travelled with familyWritten 4 November 2023
- Calvin ZRome, Italy12 contributionsA must see and meet the owner for a shot of rum. Mr Hunt can even create the best site to see in the island! Priceless:)Anthony Hunt was delightful! At 81 he’s sharp as a whip! Amazing stories and answered all our questions about his spectacular sanctuary! The colours are vibrant and the air is refreshing. Of course the experience may start with a shot of 4 Square Rum!:). Nigel the dog was charming and friendly. Get away from your busy schedule and go see this unique property! It fits perfect after the Harrison Caves tour!Visited November 2023Travelled with friendsWritten 13 November 2023
- PawelJZPoznan, Poland601 contributionsTherapeutic OasisVisiting Hunte’s Gardens was one of the highlights of my 11 days holiday on Barbados. So much planning and effort has been put into creating this truly enchanting oasis by Mr Anthony Hunte - the final effect is simply amazing. It’s no wonder that this is the most highly valued and rated of Barbados attractions. Definitely not to be missed when visiting the island!Visited November 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 15 November 2023
- Heidi G14 contributionsReturn visitMy friend and I first visited in 2017, and the beauty and tranquillity of the gardens stayed with us. On our return to Barbados, it was top of our agenda to return. We were not disappointed it was still as beautiful as we remembered. With the music playing, it was enchanting, the gardens are spectacular. We then went to have a drink, where Tony Hunte was a joy and delight to meet, and we spent a good half an hour drinking rum punch listening to him. Would we return for a 3rd visit? absolutelyVisited November 2023Travelled with friendsWritten 15 November 2023
- Lynda G3 contributionsEnchanting!!Hunte's Gardens has all the enchanted forest vibes one can ask for, and then some – it’s absolutely gorgeous at every turn! Getting to meet Anthony Hunte himself and have a chat will be a highlight for sure! This gem is a must-see for any trip to Barbados!!Visited October 2023Travelled with friendsWritten 17 November 2023
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5.0
5,051 reviews
Excellent
4,571
Very good
388
Average
60
Poor
20
Terrible
12
frankum62
London, UK24 contributions
Dec 2019
We visited Huntes gardens on New Years eve, driving out through lovely countryside, and stopping several times to look at the wonderful views over the hills and down to the sea
The gardens are simply stunning, set in a natural crater formed millions of years ago, My Hunte has designed and planted out the gardens over a 30 year period, and they are magical. classical music plays throughout the gardens, and there are many places to sit and just take in the beauty of this place. It has lots of shady spots under the enormous palm trees, with carefully placed sculptures and seating areas. Even at midday, there was a cool breeze, and we were not too hot. It is a very tranquil and beautiful place and all of our group would like to return again before we leave the island. There are a few outbuildings in the gardens, which are full of interesting and very stylish items, We met the delightful Mr Hunte, and had a delicious rum punch and a piece of cake in his house ( which used to be the stable block). He told us a little bit about the history of the land, which was once part of a large plantation, and more about the gardens and how he keeps the gardens stocked throughout the year. Huntes gardens are a 'must-do' trip when you are in Barbados. Do not miss it!
The gardens are simply stunning, set in a natural crater formed millions of years ago, My Hunte has designed and planted out the gardens over a 30 year period, and they are magical. classical music plays throughout the gardens, and there are many places to sit and just take in the beauty of this place. It has lots of shady spots under the enormous palm trees, with carefully placed sculptures and seating areas. Even at midday, there was a cool breeze, and we were not too hot. It is a very tranquil and beautiful place and all of our group would like to return again before we leave the island. There are a few outbuildings in the gardens, which are full of interesting and very stylish items, We met the delightful Mr Hunte, and had a delicious rum punch and a piece of cake in his house ( which used to be the stable block). He told us a little bit about the history of the land, which was once part of a large plantation, and more about the gardens and how he keeps the gardens stocked throughout the year. Huntes gardens are a 'must-do' trip when you are in Barbados. Do not miss it!
Written 2 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Princess Bilinda J
Barbados10 contributions
Jan 2020
Today was a rainy day in Barbados, But the garden was still beautifull, so do go even if raining, under your huge Huntes umbrella see the rain bring the garden alive with shine, and tiny pools for the birds to drink from. Also the rain never lasts long, I also enjoyed searching for the painted rock, part of Local color OBX, Barbados rock hunt. Anthony was his usual happy, interesting self, full of charm, answering any questions about his garden. The best way to enjoy the garden is to take a picnic and relax, the worst way is to have a taxi waiting , as you will not want to leave.
Written 22 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
MerlotRouge
London, UK43 contributions
Jan 2022
Friendly staff greet you at the entrance and Mr Hunte himself ( and cats) welcomes you in the quirky veranda cafe and gift shop, giving visitors a little potted history of the gardens so be ready with your questions for him! He serves the best rum punch I tasted on the island, not too sweet with a little hint of ginger.
Steep flights of steps down to the bottom of the gardens and up to all the little secluded areas mean you have to be relatively fit to make the most of the spectacular surroundings. These steps can be ​slippy after it has rained but there are hand rails to one side.
It's cash only, toilets are available, parking outside was easy ( we went around 10.30 so I don't know if it gets busier later)
Very well signposted from all all over island.This magical garden is not to be missed.
Steep flights of steps down to the bottom of the gardens and up to all the little secluded areas mean you have to be relatively fit to make the most of the spectacular surroundings. These steps can be ​slippy after it has rained but there are hand rails to one side.
It's cash only, toilets are available, parking outside was easy ( we went around 10.30 so I don't know if it gets busier later)
Very well signposted from all all over island.This magical garden is not to be missed.
Written 18 January 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Joanna H
Denver, CO44 contributions
Dec 2019
We experienced these lushes gardens as part of a tour. The grounds appeared very well maintained. This is a self guided tour with stairs. My mom who is in her 70's was able to do the stairs without much problem. There is shade and places to sit. We went on a Tuesday and it wasn't very busy but we heard it gets busier on the weekends.
Written 2 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Bob T
Cambridge, United Kingdom8 contributions
Aug 2021
A truly amazing experience. We decided to make our own way there instead of signing up for a trip and took a bus into Bridgetown and then got the Sugar Hill bus and asked the driver to let us know when we were there.
As you enter the gardens, a former sink hole, and ring the bell Anthony, the owner/creator comes to greet you, takes your entrance fee, $B20 each and then gives you a $B% token to use if you buy a cake. Anthony showed us a hummingbird nest, the size of half a walnut shell and we actually saw the hummingbird sat on the nest, wonderful.
You're free to roam the gardens at your leisure and there is some very soft piano music playing. Once we got to the higher level we could view the expanse of the garden we sat on a wicker sofa and just soaked the whole pleasant atmosphere in.
From there we went up to the veranda where we bought some cold lemonade and a smashing piece of homemade carrot cake, using our discount voucher of course, and Anthony told us a little more about the garden and it's development.
When it came time to leave Anthony gave us a little tip on travelling back using an alternative route which enabled us to view more of Barbados, but tha's another story.
Certainly well worth a visit.
As you enter the gardens, a former sink hole, and ring the bell Anthony, the owner/creator comes to greet you, takes your entrance fee, $B20 each and then gives you a $B% token to use if you buy a cake. Anthony showed us a hummingbird nest, the size of half a walnut shell and we actually saw the hummingbird sat on the nest, wonderful.
You're free to roam the gardens at your leisure and there is some very soft piano music playing. Once we got to the higher level we could view the expanse of the garden we sat on a wicker sofa and just soaked the whole pleasant atmosphere in.
From there we went up to the veranda where we bought some cold lemonade and a smashing piece of homemade carrot cake, using our discount voucher of course, and Anthony told us a little more about the garden and it's development.
When it came time to leave Anthony gave us a little tip on travelling back using an alternative route which enabled us to view more of Barbados, but tha's another story.
Certainly well worth a visit.
Written 14 September 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
rufus04
Amherst, MA10 contributions
Feb 2020
We took a taxi from the cruise port, and the driver stayed at the entrance to the gardens, telling us to take our time until we were ready to return. Think of any tropical greenhouse you've visited. These gardens were all open-air, ten times better than any conservatory I've visited. Even with the light rain we encountered, the umbrellas offered at the ticket counter were enough to make the visit pleasurable. We were dumbfounded with the extraordinary variety of plants, flowers, and presentations. However, it being a wet day, the frequent benches and chairs were wet; we did find one dry place towards the end of the tour, to sit down and rest, and then the house, where one could purchase gifts and drinks, was also dry and offered some seating. Give yourself at least two hours on site to really enjoy it.
Written 20 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Bernadette F
14 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
I have travelled to many places but this is amongst one of the most glorious. The beauty of the gardens, the music gently playing and the wonderful bird song is worth every one of the $15 entry fee. Then to meet Anthony Hunte is the icing on the cake. Sit and enjoy a rum cocktail, or two, with people from around the world we actually had to extend our taxi booking as no one wanted to leave. You simply must go. The holiday carrots loved it too!
Written 2 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
bajancanadian
14 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
Hunte's Gardens is a beautiful and peaceful diversion from the hectic pace of life. The gardens have been beautifully landscaped with all sorts of exotic and local trees, plants and flowers. Colour abounds and every turn brings something new. If you have time, take a picnic lunch with you and enjoy it in one of the many shaded and secluded seating areas throughout the gardens. The owner and creator of this gem is a true character welcoming all and takes pride in regaling you with the history of the property and the gardens. Well worth the visit.
Written 13 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
4791HRJ
Portsmouth, UK117 contributions
Mar 2020 • Friends
We visited these magnificent gardens as part of a trip which also took in the Harrison’s Cave (another must do).
The garden is a maze of stepping stones which weave you up, down and round the plants, shrubs and statues planted. In the centre is a large board with photos of the things (plants, people and pets) to look for as you explore. There are also two wonderful old and eccentric out buildings to look at, all at your own leisure. We met Anthony Hunte at the end who gave a speech about the gardens, how long his family have lived in Barbados and how long he’s owned the gardens and how they are maintained. A very hospitable, humble and kind person. The only sad part of this is that due to Covid_19 (Coronavirus) he has made the decision to close the gardens indefinitely. He himself is in his 70’s and social distancing is relatively difficult in these gardens if you need to pass someone. Once it’s open again, it is a definite must
The garden is a maze of stepping stones which weave you up, down and round the plants, shrubs and statues planted. In the centre is a large board with photos of the things (plants, people and pets) to look for as you explore. There are also two wonderful old and eccentric out buildings to look at, all at your own leisure. We met Anthony Hunte at the end who gave a speech about the gardens, how long his family have lived in Barbados and how long he’s owned the gardens and how they are maintained. A very hospitable, humble and kind person. The only sad part of this is that due to Covid_19 (Coronavirus) he has made the decision to close the gardens indefinitely. He himself is in his 70’s and social distancing is relatively difficult in these gardens if you need to pass someone. Once it’s open again, it is a definite must
Written 21 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Graeme M
2,604 contributions
Feb 2020
These tranquil botanical gardens created in the 1950s by horticulturist Anthony Hunte are a fantastic place to visit whilst on holiday in Barbados. If you enjoy horticulture (with the odd hummingbird flitting around) then this is a must.
If you have a hire car the gardens are well signposted and there is limited off road parking at the entrance. Most people seem to take cabs to and from the gardens and the drivers are use to waiting an hour or so for you to wander around. We took a taxi from Worthing Beach (south of Bridgetown) to Hunte’s Gardens, spent 90 minutes walking about, then continued onto see the Atlantic Coast at Bathsheba, before spending the afternoon at the Barbados Wildlife Reserve for two hours. Less stress than a hire car and also about the same price (B$ 230). Most taxi’s seem to charge about B$ 40 per hour when touring about.
The garden’s are an absolute delight and you can wander about for as long as you want. At the top of the hill (near the entrance) is the old house, where you can meet and chat to Mr Hunte himself.
So glad that we went.
If you have a hire car the gardens are well signposted and there is limited off road parking at the entrance. Most people seem to take cabs to and from the gardens and the drivers are use to waiting an hour or so for you to wander around. We took a taxi from Worthing Beach (south of Bridgetown) to Hunte’s Gardens, spent 90 minutes walking about, then continued onto see the Atlantic Coast at Bathsheba, before spending the afternoon at the Barbados Wildlife Reserve for two hours. Less stress than a hire car and also about the same price (B$ 230). Most taxi’s seem to charge about B$ 40 per hour when touring about.
The garden’s are an absolute delight and you can wander about for as long as you want. At the top of the hill (near the entrance) is the old house, where you can meet and chat to Mr Hunte himself.
So glad that we went.
Written 9 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
What is the entrance fee for Hunte's Gardens?
Written 30 July 2019
We rented a car from Drive O Matic. Very reasonable price and excellent service. We rented a small car which is good as the roads are narrow and it hardly used any gas. Tours are expensive and with a car to get you around you get the same tour for a fraction of the total price.
Written 26 June 2019
Coming from the cruise port we would like to catch bus 5g. We only have euro’s and us dollars. Can we pay the bus with US$ too or otherwise: how can we get some B$.
Written 26 February 2019
Yes you can pay with USD and it’s 1USD one way
Written 12 March 2019
Is this something you need to go with a tour or can you go on your own?
Written 22 January 2019
We took a taxi from the port which we had for a total of 4.5 hours at a cost of $70. Our cruise ship didn't do a tour to these gardens, but we had been before 10 years ago and I in particular wanted to visit them again. We visited the Orchid Gardens, Andromeda Botanical Gardens and Hunte's Garden which are all within 10 minutes of each other. In hindsight it might have been cheaper to hire a car and have more time in each garden. By going on our own rather than as part of a tour, we had the gardens virtually to ourselves, and the final garden, Hunte's, meant that my long suffering husband who isn't really into gardens could sit and chat to the owner, Anthony, in his quirky cafe area.
Written 23 January 2019
Are there a lot of steps or steep hills that would cause problems for someone with breathing issues?
Written 15 October 2018
The steps are not steep and they are layered, there are benches and chairs on every level to rest. I took a 85 old lady with bad knees and she had no problem.
Written 18 November 2018
How long is the bus ride to the gardens? Is it easily picked up by the cruise ship port?
Written 13 August 2018
I took bus no 5 towards Sugar hill from the bus station in central Bridgetown. 2bbd one way. Took approx 40 minutes.
Written 22 January 2019
Hi, what bus route/ number would be the best? Looking to travel from Christ church to Huntes garden?
Written 14 July 2018
Go to the Fairchild Street Terminal in Bridgetown. Take the Sugar Hill bus. Number 5.
Written 19 July 2018
I see several tour operators offering combo 1/2 day trips with Hunte's Gardens and Harrison Cave, or even combining these 2 with other attractions for a full day tour. My question is this: Is this too much to combine into 1/2 day or one day? If you really want to see the Gardens at a moderate/leisurely pace, how much time should be allowed? We're looking at spending a week in Barbados, so don't see the need to be pressed for time.
Written 18 February 2018
I think you could do both Hunte's Gardens and Harrison Cave in 1/2 day and do both of them justice. They are close together so driving time wasn't an issue. Personally, we rented a car so we weren't limited by a tour, and we enjoyed the freedom immensely. An hour is plenty of time to explore the garden.
Written 19 February 2018
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