Your Ultimate Guide To Barbados

February's Viewings

Hopefield Manor, Christ Church
 - February 2nd, 2011

A fine, classically designed Barbadian house built in 1831 and filled with artwork and well-preserved antiques. It is now home to Sir David Scale and Lady Scale, of R.L. Scale and Co., Ltd. They also own the nearby Foursquare Rum Distillery and Heritage Park. Prepare to stroll; the gardens are expansive and beautiful, and even the stables are impressive. So are their occupants; the Hopefield horses have won at least five Cockspur Gold Cups!

Featured talk took place by Dr. Henry Fraser on Rum

Porter's Great House, St. James - 
February 9th 2011

Built in 1735, this truly magnificent and stately house was for many years the Barbados estate of Martogh Guinness. The magic begins as you drive through its mahogany woods to be greeted by the stately house which has its own private chapel. Looking eastwards across extensive grounds, the hilltop is graced with a domed folly from where the view west towards the house is unparalleled. The house was opened on that particular afternoon courtesy of Altman Real Estate.

Congo Road Plantation, St. Philip
 - February 14th, 2011
(Monday Tour - Valentines Special)

Sprawling grounds, a lovely old home and outbuildings, and an equestrian centre are only part of the attraction. The main event is a rare exhibition of the world's best Sailors' Valentines elaborate shell mementos that originated in Barbados in the mid 19th century. Here at Congo Road, the art form has not only been revived by our hostess, but has reached a new zenith. Overseas 'Valentiners' have brought their masterpieces, too.

Reed Court, Pine Hill, St Michael - 
February 23rd, 2011

Set amidst acres of well manicured lawns, trees and shrubs. Reed Court is the Grand Lady of Pine Hill. This afternoon, the home will be partially furnished but let your imagination run wild and you can provide the other furnishings. Reed Courts neighbours include the British High Commissioner's residence, the Canadian High Commissioner's residence, the Governor of the Central Bank residence and the magnificent Governor General's residence. Owned by the Leo Leacock family, this home was opened courtesy of Altman Real Estate.

The Synagogue & Nidhe Israel Museum, Bridgetown, St Michael
 February 27th, 2011 (Sunday Special)

By 1654 Sephardic Jews in Barbados had consecrated Nidhe Israel, one of the two earliest temples in the western hemisphere. This architectural jewel shares a walled urban sanctuary with a stylish and engaging museum, an intriguing cemetery, and a spring-fed mikvah (ritual bath) whose recent discovery 12ft underground is of tremendous historical importance. The whole atmosphere is mystical.

Featured talk took place by Dr. Karl Watson shares excerpts from his forthcoming book, 'History of the Sephardic Jews of Barbados'.

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