Attraction Guide: Arlington House Museum, Speightstown, Barbados

Arlington House Museum Guide

Step Back in Time: A Glimpse into 18th-Century Barbados Guide

Journey back to the 18th century at Arlington House Museum, an interactive museum located in a beautifully restored historic building in Speightstown, Barbados. This museum offers a fascinating insight into the lives of the early settlers and the bustling port town that Speightstown once was. Through engaging exhibits and multimedia presentations, you'll discover the stories of merchants, planters, and enslaved people who shaped the island's history. Arlington House is one of the oldest buildings in Speightstown, dating back to around 1720. It served as a merchant's residence and business premises, reflecting the town's importance as a major trading hub in the 18th century. The museum has been carefully restored to recreate the atmosphere of the period, providing visitors with an authentic glimpse into the past. The building itself is a significant historical artifact, showcasing the architectural style of the era. Visitors can explore the museum's three floors, each dedicated to a different aspect of 18th-century life in Barbados. Interactive exhibits bring the stories to life, allowing you to experience the sights and sounds of the past. Learn about the sugar trade, the lives of enslaved people, and the challenges faced by the early settlers. Speightstown itself offers a taste of Bajan culinary traditions, with numerous restaurants serving local specialties like cou-cou and flying fish.