Saint Thomas: Caves, Nature and History

Saint Thomas can be explored through very different experiences: observing nature at Welchman Hall Gully, visiting caves at Harrison’s Cave and seeing a monument with historical significance. Manicured gardens, coastal views and seasonal polo are also among the possibilities. Comparing the nature and cave experiences shows just how varied an exploration can be.

Nature, Trails and Views

Welchman Hall Gully is a nature reserve with about 200 plant species. Along the trail through Welchman Hall Gully, you can observe butterflies, millipedes, hummingbirds and monkeys. Which animals you see may vary. The walk combines views of the plant life with the opportunity to spot different animal species.

Harrison’s Cave features limestone formations, underground streams and waterfalls. The grounds of Bagatelle Great House include manicured gardens, paths and ponds. The expansive grounds of Lion Castle Estate offer views of the south and west coasts of Barbados. The locations have different landscape features: gardens, paths and ponds shape the Bagatelle grounds, while Lion Castle offers coastal views.

Two Ways to Explore Harrison’s Cave

A tram ride through Harrison’s Cave takes you about 160 feet below the surface. During the ride, guides share stories about the cave’s history and the origins of the names of some formations.

The Harrison’s Cave Eco-Adventure Tour includes three hours of exploring cave passages and caverns by headlamp. It begins with a walk along nearby nature trails, from which visitors can observe the flora and fauna above the caves. The difference is clear when choosing: a narrated tram ride at an approximate depth or a three-hour headlamp exploration.

History, Craft and Seasonal Sport

The Rock Hall Freedom Monument was unveiled in 2005 and depicts a freed family. It was created by Barbadian artist Stanton Haynes and also commemorates the first free village established after emancipation.

Earthworks Pottery makes red-clay ceramic pieces, which are fired into a wide selection of individually designed products. This adds an insight into ceramic design to the experiences of nature, caves and history.

During the playing season, visitors can experience polo at the Lion Castle Polo Grounds. If you’d like to include this experience in your travel plans, check the match schedule for your travel dates.

A Broader Look at Barbados

Historic Bridgetown is a well-preserved old town dating from the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries and an outstanding example of British colonial architecture. Bridgetown and its Garrison are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

On Barbados, Andromeda Botanic Gardens is located between the parishes of St. Joseph and St. John, about 300 yards from the Atlantic Ocean on the east coast. The six-acre site is home to more than 500 different plant species. The garden was established both as an ornamental garden and as a botanical garden for research purposes.

Discover more destinations: Hopewell, St James, St Andrew, St Peter, Christ Church, St Lucy, Saint Joseph, Saint Michael.

Go to the main travel overview: Barbados.