After a 3 year pandemic break, the very popular Open House Programme by the Barbados National Trust returns in 2024! Starting in January and running through February and March, the Programme will see the return of some favourites as well as new venues, from historic homes to official residences and even a modern farm!
Official Residences
One of the highlights of the 2024 calendar is the inclusion of two official residences – Ilaro Court (residence of the Prime Minister) and State House (residence of the President – formerly Government House, residence of the Governor General). The former is a lovely home built in 1928 and set in a wonderful garden, while the latter is an exquisite 18th century mansion that is classically furnished.
Stepping Back In Time
The season kicks off with the opening of Clifton Hall, a historic plantation home nestled in the serene countryside. Here you’ll discover exquisite architecture, lush gardens, and a living piece of Barbadian history.
Next up is George Washington House & Museum reflecting a bygone era… and concealing a network of tunnels!
Tyrol Cot House showcases a fascinating adaptation of Palladian architecture to the tropical climate of Barbados, maximizing airflow and minimizing heat.
Religious Places
Religious buildings are also part of this years Programme with visits to St. John’s Parish Church, The Synagogue Historic District, and All Saints Church.
Don’t Forget The Rum!
There’s an old joke that there are an equal number of churches and rum shops in Barbados! Perhaps it’s fitting then that the oldest running rum distillery is also part of the Programme! Venture north to explore Mount Gay Distillery renown for its commitment to craftsmanship, traditional methods, and quality rum production.
Farm Fun
PEG Farm and Nature Sanctuary makes its debut to the Programme, offering a chance to explore a biodynamic farm and a medicinal plant sanctuary, combined with stunning panoramic views of the east coast.
Garden Delight
Visit Landis Garden for breathtaking views of the south-east coastline as well as stunning landscaping! The gardens have also been featured in the Open Garden Programme of the Barbados Horticultural Society.
Afternoon tea will be available when the property opens on March 13th.
Fabulous Fustic House
Fustic House is a historic plantation house transformed by English theatrical designer Oliver Messel. The home captures the elegance of the plantation era while incorporating modern amenities and is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and tropical grounds.
📅 See the full calendar of events and get directions to the properties at http://barbadosnationaltrust.com/openhouse/
Jan 10 Clifton Hall
Jan 17 George Washington House & Museum
Jan 27 PEG Farm
Jan 31 St. John’s Parish Church
Feb 7 Mount Gay Distillery
Feb 14 Ilaro Court
Feb 21 The Synagogue Historic District
Feb 28 State House
Mar 6 All Saints Church
Mar 13 Landis Garden
Mar 20 Fustic House
Mar 27 Tyrol Cot
🎫 Pricing
Adults: US $25 BDS $50
Members of National Trusts: US $20 BDS $40
Members of BARP/AARP/CARP: US $20 BDS $40
Children aged 12-17 (with an adult): US$10 BDS $20
Students of BCC, UWI, Polytechnic: US$10 BDS $20
Children under 12: free
Photo Credits
* By Barbados National Trust – https://whatsoninbarbados.com/event/36218-open-house-ilaro-court/, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=101105364
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