{"id":7500,"date":"2024-01-03T22:35:36","date_gmt":"2024-01-04T02:35:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/barbados.org\/blog\/?p=7500"},"modified":"2024-01-03T22:46:37","modified_gmt":"2024-01-04T02:46:37","slug":"open-house-programme-returns","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/barbados.org\/blog\/open-house-programme-returns\/","title":{"rendered":"Open House Programme Returns!"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

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!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Official Residences<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

One of the highlights of the 2024 calendar is the inclusion of two official residences – Ilaro Court<\/a><\/strong> (residence of the Prime Minister<\/strong>) and State House<\/a><\/strong> (residence of the President <\/strong>– 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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"
Ilaro Court *<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Stepping Back In Time<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The season kicks off with the opening of Clifton Hall<\/strong>, a historic plantation home nestled in the serene countryside. Here you’ll discover exquisite architecture, lush gardens, and a living piece of Barbadian history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Next up is George Washington House & Museum<\/a><\/strong> reflecting a bygone era… and concealing a network of tunnels!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"
Tunnel at George Washington House<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Tyrol Cot House<\/strong> showcases a fascinating adaptation of Palladian architecture to the tropical climate of Barbados, maximizing airflow and minimizing heat. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Religious Places<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Religious buildings are also part of this years Programme with visits to St. John’s Parish Church<\/strong>, The Synagogue Historic District<\/strong>, and All Saints Church<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Nidhe
Nidhe Israel Synagogue<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Don’t Forget The Rum!<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

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<\/strong> renown for its commitment to craftsmanship, traditional methods, and quality rum production.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n