Garrison Historic Area

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2011, along with Bridgetown's historic district, the former British garrison barracks are one of Barbados' heritage gems.

Construction of the complex dates back to 1705, shortly after the War of Spanish Succession. Numerous forts had been built to defend the island (including the nearby Fort Charles), but the need was felt to better protect the bridgehead of the colonial empire in the Caribbean. Fort St-Anne, a tribute to Queen Anne of England, was erected. This hexagonal fort was the first piece of defense. The rest of the Garrison was built in the following years, and entered service in 1780. From the 18th century until 1905, the Garrison was the headquarters of the British West Indies Regiment in Barbados. Today, the splendid Georgian-style buildings, the red color of the coats worn by British servicemen at the time, and the many cannons on display everywhere, bear witness to Barbados' importance and prestige within the colonial empire.

The site is enormous, and can be divided into several parts for a better understanding.

Fort St. Anne: this is the Garrison's first line of defense and its oldest building. It cannot be entered, as it is now the headquarters of the Barbadian armed forces. However, its high walls can be admired from afar.

The guardhouse (1802-3): the most elegant of the complex, it's impossible to miss as it's flanked by a clock tower. The tower's base features an impressive British coat of arms. The nerve center of the Garrison, this is where soldiers reported for duty and received their orders. Every Thursday at 11 a.m., veterans perform a sentry change ceremony, complete with costumes and music.

Garrison Savannah and barracks: the old barracks are arranged around the former parade ground (now a racecourse). Architecturally identical, they are all in different states of restoration. They could house up to 4,000 soldiers.

George Washington's house and its tunnels (see guide).

The Barbados Museum (see guide) and other historic houses along Garrison Road, such as the Cadet Headquarters or The Pavilion, the former home of the Garrison Surgeon General.