St. George is one of two parishes that does not have the luxury of borders kissed by the ocean. However, this parish boasts lush vegetation and elevated peaks that provide unmatched views of Barbados. Away from the hustle of the city and filled with attractions and unique spots, St. George is waiting for you to experience all it has to offer.
St. George's Top Things To Do
St. George is one of two parishes that does not have the luxury of borders kissed by the ocean. However, this parish boasts lush vegetation and elevated peaks that provide unmatched views of Barbados. Away from the hustle of the city and filled with attractions and unique spots, St. George is waiting for you to experience all it has to offer.
St. George Parish Church
The Anglican history is tethered tightly to the story of Barbados, and standing in St. George is a testament of this. The St. George Parish Church stands as the oldest church on the island, built in 1784. However, records show that this is the second such place of worship on the site. The first structure was destroyed by a hurricane in 1780, however, no record states the original date of construction. Since its reconstitution, its Georgian structure has survived many hurricanes that have wreaked havoc on Barbados, in particular the devastating hurricane of August 1831 which destroyed much of the island’s infrastructure. Today, the church holds within its walls magnificent commissioned artwork, stained-glass motifs, and beautiful architecture must be seen.
Gun Hill Signal Station
If you are interested in a bird's eye view of the wonderful south-east side of the island, then Gun Hill Signal Station in St. George must be on your list of attractions when you visit the island. The aged but wonderfully restored and maintained bastion of British Military communications in colonial times sits on an elevated ridge allowing it to have unhindered views of the island. From this vantage point, you can see the south, east and parts of the west of the island. Built in 1818, the Gun Hill Signal Station was one of six stations used mainly to signal the approach of enemy ships and to glimpse any early signs of slave uprisings on the plantations. The signal station sits on a beautifully landscaped parcel of land where the Pride of Barbados flowers dominate the fauna with their splendour.
The Lion at Gun Hill
Keeping guard just below the Gun Hill Signal Station is Captain Henry Wilkinson's stone masterpiece of a lion. The lion was carved from a single piece of coral stone in 1868 by the captain while he was stationed at Gunhill signal station. The lion represented the power and dominance of the British Empire but represents a great photo opportunity today. Scripted in Latin are the words "He shall have dominion also from sea to sea, and from river to river, unto the ends of the earth." Suggesting the extended reach of the British Empire at the time.
Brighton Farmers’ Market
Every Saturday morning from 6 to 10 am the Brighton Plantation becomes a lovely mix of produce, unique treats, jewellery and more. The Brighton Farmers’ Market is an open-air market located in St. George. With lovely views of the St. George Valley, you can join the many Barbadians and visitors to the island, who make their way down to get farm-fresh produce and a wide selection of gourmet delights. Get there early to enjoy first come first served breakfast which includes delicious pastries, coffee and tea. The Brighton Farmers' Market is a lively bright way to start your Saturday adventures.
Exclusive Cottons of Barbados
Barbados is famous the world over for its sugar, rum, the hospitality of its people, pristine beaches and yearlong summer weather. There is something else that you should add to the list of Barbadian finery, the cotton. West Indian Sea Island Cotton, is unique and it is set apart from other strains by its silk-like quality. when manipulated into finished products such as scarfs, bedsheets and designer clothing, its finish and texture have been compared to cashmere and the finest silk. At Exclusive Cottons of Barbados, you are given a first-hand look at how the cotton is processed; from the fields where the cotton is handpicked to the final products which can be found in the gift shop.
Orchid World and Tropical Flower Garden
Sometimes you have to wonder what is in the name of an attraction. With Orchid World, however, there is no guessing needed. With well over 1000 Orchids and thousands of Caribbean plants and flowers, the six-acre property is truly a floral world tucked away from the rest of civilization. Walkways that slope and twist through the tropical garden lead to not only beautiful flowers and orchids but to comfortable spaces to rest and enjoy the atmosphere and the view of the countryside. The garden is an optimal place to take lots of photographs to capture and share its splendour. On your self-guided tour, you will come upon a coral grotto and five orchid houses. In the end, you can relax with a cold or hot beverage on the covered deck and finally visit the gift shop before heading off.
Country View Bar
Away from the everyday sounds of a busy city, is a place where the breeze blows fresh and the beer is served cold. The Rum is plentiful and the atmosphere makes time slow to a halt. Country View Bar in St. George is a Rum shop get-away that will have you forgetting your plans for the rest of the day. The delectable Bajan menu, hospitality and the view, we cannot forget the view, is a priceless combination that must be on your to-do list.
Mayfield Plantation
She said “Yes”', now it is time to create the perfect wedding day with the help of the beautiful Island paradise of Barbados and the majestic grounds of Mayfield Plantation. Found in the parish of St. George, the Mayfield Plantation is the ideal spot to have both the ceremony and reception for your union. Set against the stunningly manicured gardens and countryside, the first-class service will take all your concerns away. Let your imagination and creativity go, as the plantation grounds and surrounding building offer you a palette to express your every want.
There is much to do and experience in the parish of St. George. From the Saturday morning experience of the Brighton Farmers’ Market to the stunning beauty of Orchid world and Tropical Gardens, Remember to have your cameras ready because there is beauty at every turn.