Attractions in Barbados

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Harrison's Cave

With an abundance of stalactites, stalagmites, streams, lakes and waterfalls, leading speleologists consider it to be among the finest showcases in the world.

The Caves are located near the geographical centre of Barbados, near the southern end of Welchman Hall Gully in the parish of St. Thomas. First mentioned in historical documents in 1795, the caves were virtually forgotten for nearly two centuries until Barbadian Tony Mason and Danish speleologist Ole Sorensen “rediscovered” them in 1976. In 1981, Harrison’s Cave was officially opened to the public as a “show” cave, giving visitors an opportunity to view a variety of natural features unique to the geophysical structure of Barbados.

Upon arrival at the cave you may relax, pick up souvenirs and gifts at the souvenir shop or grab a bite at the snack bar. The tour starts in our theatre with an audiovisual show documenting the fascinating and unique geological history of Barbados and how the wonders of the cave came about. Unlike most in the world, Harrison’s is a living cave. The droplets of calcium-rich water that drop from the roof are still adding to the cast formations. After the show you board the trams for the spectacular ride underground accompanied by guide and driver

The first stop on the tour is dramatic! To the right, some exquisite formations overlooking a fast-flowing stream. To the left “The Great Hall” – a vast cavern over 100ft high and 150ft across. Hanging from the roof and rising from the floor are literally thousands of stalactites and stalagmites. From “The Great Hall” we pass “The Village”, a perfusion of all sizes of formations. In some cases the stalactites and stalagmites have met in the middle after thousands of years to create columns. The next stop is “The Rotunda Room” where you disembark to get a closer view of the beautiful cavern. Many consider the formations in the Rotunda to be the most stunning in the Caves. “Explorers Pool” is the location of the natural entrance to the Caves. At the far side of the pool is a narrow passage that winds its way to the surface.

The water that runs through the Cave is fed by two separate underground streams. At “Twin Falls” these two streams cascade into the lake beneath. You are encouraged to disembark for a closer look! Looking up, you can admire the delicate formations called “soda straws”, a fragile tube-like stalactite in the early stages of growth, that adorn the ceiling. As the tram winds its way back it enters the lower level of “The Great Hall” about 120ft below the surface. Many refer to this view as “The Cathedral”.

Barbados Museum

The Barbados Museum & Historical Society is a “must see” both for Barbadians and for visitors to the island. Set on the grounds of a 19th century military prison in the historic Garrison Area, an exploration of the galleries and courtyards of this magnificent institution is truly unforgettable. Special features of the Museum’s eight galleries are:

Natural History
Amerindian culture
Barbadian social & military history
Antique maps, prints and paintings
New African Gallery
Fun and interactive Children’s Gallery

The Museum also houses an unrivalled research library with over 5,000 titles and documents on Barbadian and Caribbean history, and a gift shop with exclusive selections of souvenirs and books.

Opening Hours:

Monday - Saturday: 9:00 a..m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sunday: 2:00 to 6:00 p.m.

Closed on public holidays.
Tel: 427-0201 or 436-1956
Email: museum@caribsurf.com Website: www.barbmuse.org.bb

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Attractions in Barbados

Harrison's Cave

Barbados Museum