How to Plan Your Speightstown Historic Walking Tour

If you’re visiting Barbados, add Speightstown to your itinerary. It’s a charming town in the northern part of the island, with a rich colonial history that deserves exploring. One of the best ways to learn about the history of Speightstown is to take a guided walking tour. In this post, we’ll show you how to plan your historic Speightstown walking tour.

Step 1: Choose Your Tour

There are several walking tours of Speightstown available, but for the purposes of this post, we’ll focus on the guided walking tour offered by GetYourGuide. This tour is conducted by a local guide and takes you on a walking tour of the town, where you’ll learn about its history, architecture, and culture. You can book the tour online at the following link: book the tour here.

Step 2: Review the Tour Itinerary

The Speightstown historic walking tour lasts approximately 2 hours, during which you’ll be taken on a stroll through the town with a knowledgeable guide. You’ll learn about the town’s history, including its importance to the British Empire and its role in historical conflicts on the island. You’ll also get to admire beautiful colonial architecture from the early settlements, and meet some of the locals such as wayside hawkers and proprietors of rum shops. The tour includes a light snack and water, as well as audio equipment with disposable headphones. Note that this tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments.

Step 3: Plan Your Transportation

Before the tour, you’ll need to plan your transportation to Speightstown. If you’re staying in a hotel on the island, you can check if the tour includes transfers. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi or use public transportation to get to Speightstown. The town is easily accessible by bus, and there are several bus routes that run through Speightstown.

Step 4: Prepare for Your Tour

To get the most out of your walking tour, it’s important to come prepared. Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather. We recommend wearing lightweight clothing, as Barbados can get quite hot and humid. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the beautiful colonial architecture and scenery.

Step 5: Enjoy Your Tour

On the day of your tour, arrive at the meeting point at least 10 minutes before the tour starts. Your guide will give you an introduction to the history of Speightstown, and then take you on a stroll through the town. Listen carefully to their stories and ask questions if you’re curious about anything. Take advantage of the audio equipment provided to hear your guide more clearly. Enjoy the light snack provided, and take plenty of photos to remember your tour.

Conclusion

Taking a Speightstown historic walking tour is a fantastic way to learn about the history and architecture of this charming town. By following the steps outlined in this post, you can plan your tour with confidence and make the most out of your experience. Book your tour today, and enjoy a memorable journey through Speightstown.

An Insider’s Guide to Speightstown, Barbados: How to Plan Your Historic Walking Tour

Speightstown, located in the northernmost parish of Saint Peter, is one of the oldest towns in Barbados and boasts a rich historical significance that offers something for everyone. This guide will help you plan your walking tour of Speightstown and discover some of the hidden gems this charming town has to offer.

Local Attractions

Speightstown is home to several historical landmarks, including St. Peter’s Church, one of the oldest churches on the island, and the Arlington House Museum, a restored 18th-century building that showcases the history of Speightstown and Barbados. Another must-see attraction is the Speightstown Mural, a colorful 80-foot mural that depicts the town’s history and culture.

For a taste of the island’s colonial past, visit the nearby St. Nicholas Abbey, one of only three remaining Jacobean-style mansions in the Western Hemisphere, and explore its sugar cane fields and rum distillery.

Dining Spots

If you’re looking for the best local cuisine, head down to the Speightstown Fish Market, where you’ll find a variety of freshly caught fish and seafood from local fishermen. For a more upscale dining experience, check out The Fish Pot restaurant, which offers contemporary Caribbean cuisine with a stunning view of the ocean.

For a taste of the region’s famous rum, visit the rum shops dotted around Speightstown, where you’ll find locals enjoying the island’s favorite beverage and good conversation.

Cultural Experiences

Immerse yourself in the island’s culture by visiting the Old Town Hall, which has been converted into an art gallery showcasing the works of local artists. You can also explore the town’s craft markets and pick up unique souvenirs like pottery, handmade jewelry, and other crafts.

For a glimpse of local life, take a stroll around Speightstown’s fisherman wharf, where fishermen dock their boats and sell their daily catch to the local community.

Local History

Speightstown tells the story of Barbados’ colonial past, and nowhere is this more apparent than in the historic buildings that line its streets. As you walk around, pay attention to the architectural details of buildings like the old courthouse and the former Custom House. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Sunbury Plantation House, a 17th-century plantation house turned museum that provides insight into the island’s colonial history.

Off the Beaten Path

If you’re looking to escape the crowds and experience the natural beauty of Barbados, take a short hike to the nearby Animal Flower Cave. This sea cave’s natural beauty, complete with crystal-clear waters, will take your breath away.

Another hidden gem is the historic Arlington House, a restored 18th-century building that showcases Speightstown’s history. The museum offers visitors a glimpse into daily life in Speightstown during the 18th and 19th centuries.

In conclusion, Speightstown is a charming town that offers a fascinating glimpse into the island’s past and present. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just good food, Speightstown is the perfect place to explore and discover Barbados’ unique charm.