Barbados Museum & Historical Society
Barbados Museum & Historical Society
Barbados Museum & Historical Society
4
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About
The Home of Barbadian Heritage and Culture! Come explore the island’s rich history, culture and heritage. Located in the UNESCO World Heritage Property at St Ann’s, Garrison and housed in a 19th-century military prison building, there are many artefacts and stories about the island waiting to be discovered. With a collection of over 500,000 artefacts dating from prehistoric times through the 21st century, every gallery narrates the stories and historical events of Barbados and Barbadians.
Duration: 1-2 hours
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- LorraineNew York34 contributionsRecommend this museum!Great museum with interesting things. I was surprised how such a small museum on a small island had so much, and things I had never seen before. And very reasonable entrance fee and nice gift shop too.Visited November 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 21 November 2023
- Frank MFlorence, South Carolina90 contributionsBarbados MuseumWent on a thursday to see the museum. i would budget 1-1.5hr for this. interesting historical exhibits. the admission price is definitely right, and they give a discount to folks with mobility issues. Pushing a wheelchair around is doable in most of the areas, but they do have a rather steep ramp to the upper area and the office for tickets is not really accessible.Visited April 2024Travelled with familyWritten 19 April 2024
- Scott GWashington DC, District of Columbia450 contributionsPleasant and quiet, good for kids/familiesA good way to learn about Barbados' history and geographical background. it is informative, educational and interesting. Great for families. There are different aspects to the museum including a kid's museum that is interactive. The grounds are pretty.Visited June 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 24 June 2024
- Robert D4,374 contributionsExcellent museumThe museum building was built in 1818 as a military prison and is now the Barbados Museum. The museum has eight galleries that cover various aspects of Barbados' history. One gallery features the animals on the island. Another gallery is devoted to the human history of Barbados. They were the richest of Britain's colonies, due largely to the sugar they produced. You can see a spider and puncheon. A puncheon is a barrel used to transport molasses. It held 110 gallons (500 litres) and weighed 600 pounds (270 kg). The spider was used to transport the puncheon. They also had temporary exhibitions. The curator showed me around the "Looka: Dismantling the Colonial Gaze" exhibit. Six artists chose a vintage postcard and created an artwork in reaction to it. The postcards were taken by white men and reflected their world view of the people they photographed. The artists wanted to empower their subjects. For example, one artwork was based upon an early 20th century postcard "Inside Insane Asylum". The artwork by Joy Maynard was painted to raise mental health awareness and is titled "Power in Community Kindness". I spent three hours in the museum and enjoyed it immensely.Visited May 2024Travelled soloWritten 29 June 2024
- Eileen108Mount Shasta, California5,100 contributionsRooms with Informative DisplaysUnfortunately I was short on time and could only visit a few rooms quickly. There were informative displays but several rooms seemed to be closed, and no one else was there visiting when I was (about 11am on Friday). The area was well maintained and pretty.Visited March 2024Travelled soloWritten 12 August 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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4.0
342 reviews
Excellent
112
Very good
141
Average
63
Poor
16
Terrible
10
Andrea
2 contributions
June 2022 • Friends
My cousin and I went to the National Museum of Barbados Historical Society in Dalkeith Road, Bridgetown on 16/06/2022. Before setting off we Googled the opening times and ticket prices. On their website the admission fee stated was $15 (BBD) per person.
Upon our arrival there was a female member of staff at the reception (cashier) unfortunately I am unable to remember her name. The lady (for some reason) asked what Country we came from, we informed her that we were from the UK. To our astonishment she then quoted $20 (BBD) for the entry fee. Naturally we challenged this, stating that we had seen it on the National Museum of Barbados Historical Society website for $15 (BBD). In addition, my cousin had taken a screen shot of this information. We challenged this as we googled all the information for our trip and it stated that it is $15 BBD for entry. When we clarified the ticket price (money in hand) the cashier called two very rude and very unprofessional young ladies from the office who proceeded to interrogate us in an unprofessional manner. They responded with an arrogant, patronising, rude mannerism and tone of voice. Her communication implied that we were being dishonest, especially when she asked where and when did we take this screenshot? Even when we attempted googled it again whilst in her presence as evidence to confirm what we had seen, she remained nonchalant, uninterested and unapologetic. Adding insult to injury, she suggested that the screenshot was not taken recently, as the prices has been increased. However, there were no signs displayed at the entrance to the museum to indicate that there had been an increase or on their website. The manager/ another colleague
was called on the phone and to our surprise she/ he seemed to exhibited identical characteristics to their colleague. The cashier was the only person who took acknowledged the error but kept quiet when the two other ladies came to speak with us from the office. The ladies from the office took no accountability and denied the price that was stated on the National Museum of Barbados Historical Society website, as their reasoning was it had been changed recently but it was obvious that their old information had not been taken down.
In view of the passive aggressive style of communication from these two ladies, which was a unpleasant experience, we decided not to continue with our planned visit to this museum. Please don’t misconstrued my point, we would not squabble over this amount of money, our decision was made purely out of principle. I strongly recommend that the staff at the National Museum of Barbados Historical Society receive adequate training in customer service and conflict resolution. I am disappointed and bewildered that such individuals are in a position to represent the National Museum of Barbados Historical Society website and work with the general public.
Upon our arrival there was a female member of staff at the reception (cashier) unfortunately I am unable to remember her name. The lady (for some reason) asked what Country we came from, we informed her that we were from the UK. To our astonishment she then quoted $20 (BBD) for the entry fee. Naturally we challenged this, stating that we had seen it on the National Museum of Barbados Historical Society website for $15 (BBD). In addition, my cousin had taken a screen shot of this information. We challenged this as we googled all the information for our trip and it stated that it is $15 BBD for entry. When we clarified the ticket price (money in hand) the cashier called two very rude and very unprofessional young ladies from the office who proceeded to interrogate us in an unprofessional manner. They responded with an arrogant, patronising, rude mannerism and tone of voice. Her communication implied that we were being dishonest, especially when she asked where and when did we take this screenshot? Even when we attempted googled it again whilst in her presence as evidence to confirm what we had seen, she remained nonchalant, uninterested and unapologetic. Adding insult to injury, she suggested that the screenshot was not taken recently, as the prices has been increased. However, there were no signs displayed at the entrance to the museum to indicate that there had been an increase or on their website. The manager/ another colleague
was called on the phone and to our surprise she/ he seemed to exhibited identical characteristics to their colleague. The cashier was the only person who took acknowledged the error but kept quiet when the two other ladies came to speak with us from the office. The ladies from the office took no accountability and denied the price that was stated on the National Museum of Barbados Historical Society website, as their reasoning was it had been changed recently but it was obvious that their old information had not been taken down.
In view of the passive aggressive style of communication from these two ladies, which was a unpleasant experience, we decided not to continue with our planned visit to this museum. Please don’t misconstrued my point, we would not squabble over this amount of money, our decision was made purely out of principle. I strongly recommend that the staff at the National Museum of Barbados Historical Society receive adequate training in customer service and conflict resolution. I am disappointed and bewildered that such individuals are in a position to represent the National Museum of Barbados Historical Society website and work with the general public.
Written 17 June 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.
Joseph M
London, UK2 contributions
Aug 2022
Made an effort to travel down to the musuem as we wanted to learn more about Barbados history.
Upon entry there was a donation box. We were told the ‘donation’ is $20BBD per person. This is in fact not a donation but an entry charge,
We decided due to their attitude to no longer visit and left and went elsewhere. I think if an entry fee is advertised it would work better for this musuem as it would allow people to assess it in advance of leaving. A forced ‘donation’ is not a donation and as the musuem looks quite out of date i don’t think it warranted $80BBD for 2 adults and 2 kids.
Upon entry there was a donation box. We were told the ‘donation’ is $20BBD per person. This is in fact not a donation but an entry charge,
We decided due to their attitude to no longer visit and left and went elsewhere. I think if an entry fee is advertised it would work better for this musuem as it would allow people to assess it in advance of leaving. A forced ‘donation’ is not a donation and as the musuem looks quite out of date i don’t think it warranted $80BBD for 2 adults and 2 kids.
Written 24 August 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.
Michael B
Bellflower, CA24,492 contributions
Mar 2022
While exploring The St Ann’s Garrison we paid a visit to the Barbados Historical Societies Museum, located in the 19th-century military prison building. The museum was established in 1933 and presents an excellent display on the colonial times under British rule with over 500,000 artifacts dating from prehistoric times through the 21st century, every gallery narrates the stories and historical events of Barbados and Barbadians.
It’s slightly old-fashioned as museums go but still worth a visit. It's next to the racecourse, and about a five-minute walk from the red Clock Tower and Main Guard building.
There is lots of parking space if you are driving, also somewhere within the building complex is a bronze statue of British naval officer Admiral Horatio Nelson, 1st Viscount Nelson who was removed in 2020 from its location in National Heroes Square (Trafalgar Square) in Bridgetown to the museum.
Tip: If driving, it's right next to the huge horse racing venue 'Garrison Savannah' just outside of Bridgetown.
I would apricate a thumbs up below if you found this review informative. Thank you.
It’s slightly old-fashioned as museums go but still worth a visit. It's next to the racecourse, and about a five-minute walk from the red Clock Tower and Main Guard building.
There is lots of parking space if you are driving, also somewhere within the building complex is a bronze statue of British naval officer Admiral Horatio Nelson, 1st Viscount Nelson who was removed in 2020 from its location in National Heroes Square (Trafalgar Square) in Bridgetown to the museum.
Tip: If driving, it's right next to the huge horse racing venue 'Garrison Savannah' just outside of Bridgetown.
I would apricate a thumbs up below if you found this review informative. Thank you.
Written 29 April 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.
Frank M
Florence, SC90 contributions
Apr 2024 • Family
Went on a thursday to see the museum. i would budget 1-1.5hr for this. interesting historical exhibits. the admission price is definitely right, and they give a discount to folks with mobility issues. Pushing a wheelchair around is doable in most of the areas, but they do have a rather steep ramp to the upper area and the office for tickets is not really accessible.
Written 19 April 2024
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.
Simon Bailey
Nottingham, UK778 contributions
Oct 2021 • Couples
We decided to look around this museum whilst visiting Bridgetown. Unfortunately the some areas of the museum were closed, unsure if it was due to COVID or if they are changing things about. The parts we did get to look around were filled with facts, so you can certainly learn about the history of Barbados. It would be nice if there was a little Café or something similar to get a drink & bite to eat.
Written 28 October 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.
Thank you very much for your feedback, we certainly appreciate it!
Written 1 February 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Lucinda W
6 contributions
Feb 2022
Whilst I think it is a little old fashioned as a museum, I did learn a lot about Barbadian history particularly leading up to its now independent status. I understand that there will be a dedicated museum to the slave history of Barbados which is much needed. The museum is one of the better places to visit in Bridgetown. Not sure why we couldn't take photos.
Written 16 February 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.
RochPatCat
London, UK117 contributions
Sept 2024 • Couples
There is ample car parking spaces at the front of the building. We were welcomes at the reception area, paid and were given a map of the museum as this was a self guided tour.
I'd allow 1.5/3hrs depending on how much reading you wish to do on the day.
The Barbados Museum is a fantastic destination for anyone interested in the rich history and natural beauty of the island. The exhibits provide a comprehensive overview of Barbados, featuring a wide range of natural artifacts, including corals and native animals, alongside fascinating historical items from colonial times through to the modern era.
It's well-curated and gives visitors a deep sense of the island's cultural and historical development. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious about Barbados, this museum is a must-see and offers a well-rounded educational experience. Highly recommended!
I'd allow 1.5/3hrs depending on how much reading you wish to do on the day.
The Barbados Museum is a fantastic destination for anyone interested in the rich history and natural beauty of the island. The exhibits provide a comprehensive overview of Barbados, featuring a wide range of natural artifacts, including corals and native animals, alongside fascinating historical items from colonial times through to the modern era.
It's well-curated and gives visitors a deep sense of the island's cultural and historical development. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious about Barbados, this museum is a must-see and offers a well-rounded educational experience. Highly recommended!
Written 2 October 2024
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.
Serena P
Toronto, Canada5 contributions
Dec 2023 • Family
The museum is well curated but really difficult to navigate for people with mobility needs. At the outset we asked if there was seating available throughout, as one of our party has a chronic pain condition and needs to rest at regular intervals. We were assured that there was seating.
Unfortunately we found that much of the seating is not for sitting on (is actually a display item), has no back rest (uncomfortable benches unsuitable for those who need core support), is in the middle of high sun in the courtyard for much of the day, or is missing entirely for long stretches.
While there is a section of the museum addressing changing attitudes towards disability in Barbados, we found all of the staff we spoke to were either dismissive or actively condescending. It's a shame that the public facing people who work there are such a deterrent to accessing an otherwise well assembled collection with very culturally relevant work. A few adequate chairs would also go a long way.
Unfortunately we found that much of the seating is not for sitting on (is actually a display item), has no back rest (uncomfortable benches unsuitable for those who need core support), is in the middle of high sun in the courtyard for much of the day, or is missing entirely for long stretches.
While there is a section of the museum addressing changing attitudes towards disability in Barbados, we found all of the staff we spoke to were either dismissive or actively condescending. It's a shame that the public facing people who work there are such a deterrent to accessing an otherwise well assembled collection with very culturally relevant work. A few adequate chairs would also go a long way.
Written 4 January 2024
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.
quillboy
London, UK103 contributions
Feb 2023 • Couples
Visited the museum as part of a walk around the very large and interesting garrison area - many interesting building’s although, sadly, most are disused and somewhat dilapidated.
The museum itself was well worth a visit with thousands of interesting artefacts each area concentrating on a particular topic of history or geography. Based in the former military prison, there is even an original cell. There is a great interactive science based room for children that kept us adults amused too. Staff were very welcoming and knowledgeable.
The museum itself was well worth a visit with thousands of interesting artefacts each area concentrating on a particular topic of history or geography. Based in the former military prison, there is even an original cell. There is a great interactive science based room for children that kept us adults amused too. Staff were very welcoming and knowledgeable.
Written 24 February 2023
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.
Eileen108
Mount Shasta, CA5,100 contributions
Mar 2024 • Solo
Unfortunately I was short on time and could only visit a few rooms quickly. There were informative displays but several rooms seemed to be closed, and no one else was there visiting when I was (about 11am on Friday). The area was well maintained and pretty.
Written 12 August 2024
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.
kellymhtaylor
Clermont, Barbados
Do you have to book in advance or can you just walk in?
Written 24 May 2019
I am will be in Barbados @ December 15. How can I get to the visit the museum from the port?
Written 20 November 2015
Hi,
The easiest way to get to the Barbados Museum from the Cruise Terminal is via taxi. You can easily arrange this once you disembark. You can also ask you driver to collect you from the Museum and take you to other sites around the around.
Written 3 December 2015
Hi, I will be returning to Bridgetown, Barbados in Feb. next year and was wondering if shipping records/newspapers of the 1800's
would be available to view. I am particularly interested in the sugar trade to Ireland.
Regards,
Jim Murphy
Written 1 November 2015
Hi Jim,
Please contact our Librarian at the Shilstone Memorial Library which is a dedicated research facility.
Tel: 427 0201
Written 3 December 2015
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