St. Nicholas Abbey: A Timeless Plantation Experience
Step back in time at St. Nicholas Abbey, a beautifully preserved 17th-century Jacobean mansion, rum distillery, and heritage railway offering a captivating glimpse into Barbadian history.
St. Nicholas Abbey, nestled in the lush hills of St. Peter, Barbados, is a beautifully preserved 17th-century Jacobean mansion, rum distillery, and heritage railway. This unique plantation offers visitors a captivating glimpse into Barbadian history and culture. Explore the meticulously restored Great House, wander through the fragrant gardens, and witness the rum-making process from sugarcane to bottle. A ride on the St. Nicholas Abbey Heritage Railway provides stunning views of the island's rugged east coast, culminating at Cherry Tree Hill. With its rich history, architectural grandeur, and immersive experiences, St. Nicholas Abbey is a must-see destination for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Barbados. Don't miss the opportunity to sample the award-winning rum, learn about the plantation's fascinating past, and create lasting memories in this enchanting setting. Whether you're a history buff, a rum enthusiast, or simply seeking a beautiful escape, St. Nicholas Abbey promises an unforgettable journey through time.
A brief summary to St. Nicholas Abbey and Steam Railway
- Cherry Tree Hill St. Peter, Saint Peter, BB26007, BB
- +1246-422-5357
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during peak season (November to March), and allow ample time to explore the entire estate.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking on the grounds and through the Great House.
- Take the Heritage Railway tour for stunning panoramic views of the island's east coast and a unique perspective on the plantation.
- Don't miss the opportunity to sample the St. Nicholas Abbey Rum, made on-site using traditional methods.
- Check the schedule for the syrup factory and distillery operations to witness the rum-making process in action (typically January to May).
Getting There
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Driving
From the popular Cherry Tree Hill viewpoint, St. Nicholas Abbey is just a short drive away. Continue along Highway 1 towards the north. The entrance to St. Nicholas Abbey will be on your left, clearly signposted. Parking is available on-site and is included in the ticket price.
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Public Transport
From Speightstown, take the 1A, 1E, or SE1 bus towards Boscobelle. Ask the driver to let you off at the 'Castle (Boscobelle)' bus stop, which is the closest to St. Nicholas Abbey. From the bus stop, it's approximately a 15-minute walk to the Abbey. Follow the road towards Cherry Tree Hill, and you'll see signs for St. Nicholas Abbey on your right. The bus fare is approximately $2 BBD.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
From Speightstown, a taxi or ride-share to St. Nicholas Abbey will take approximately 10-15 minutes. Expect to pay around $30-$40 BBD for the trip. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before you set off.
Discover more about St. Nicholas Abbey and Steam Railway
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Saint Clement's Church, Barbados
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Unmissable attractions to see
St.Nicholas Abbey Destillerie
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Cherry Tree Hill Reserve
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Professional Scammer
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Magnetic Hill
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Cherry Tree Hill
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Barbados Wildlife Reserve
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Grenade Hall Forest & Signal Station
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Farley Hill National Park
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Morgan Lewis Windmill
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Ride Barbados
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Pico Teneriffe
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Morgan Lewis Beach
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All Saints Anglican Church
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Cove Bay
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Cove Yard
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Essential places to dine
It's a Mirage
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Angie’s Kitchen
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LK's Hideaway & Kitchen
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Sharad's Bar & Grill
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Sand Dunes
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11 Parishes Sports Bar & Restaurant
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Pizza Mania
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La Salsa
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Pitstop Bar and Grill
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The Chattel Bar, Caribbean Restaurant
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Black Bess Canteen
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Hidden Bar + Grill
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The Black Urchin
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The Haymans Social
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Pizza Bums (Mobile Location)
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Brie's Minimart
3.2 km
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Sol Shop Convenience Store
3.8 km
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Chataik Boutique
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Junction Hardware
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Trimart Supermarket, Mile & A Quarter
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Island Naturals Boutique
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Weekes Variety
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Sobers Cool Spot
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Saint Luke Barbados
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Haymans Market
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Treats By Legacy
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Sunset Bar
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The Constitution Bar
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Date Tree Delight
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Leslie's Bar
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Wizzard's Bar
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Bishops Tenantry
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Big Don Food & Bar
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Candales Outback
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Tiki Bar
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