Arawa | Provice Area

Sunbury Plantation House is a historic sugar plantation house located in Saint Philip, Barbados.

This 17th-century structure offers a glimpse into the island's colonial past.

Visual Characteristics

The house is constructed primarily from coral stone, giving it a pale, weathered appearance. It features a two-story main building with a pitched, tiled roof. Architectural elements include arched doorways and windows, characteristic of colonial Barbadian design. The interior walls are thick, designed for thermal regulation. Surrounding the main house are various outbuildings, including stables and a boiling house, also built from coral stone.

Location & Access Logistics

Sunbury Plantation House is situated approximately 25 kilometers east of Bridgetown. Access is via Highway 4 (St. John's Road) which becomes Highway 5 (Four Roads) as it heads south. Turn onto Sunbury Road, clearly marked. Ample on-site parking is available for vehicles. Public transport options are limited; the nearest bus route is approximately 2 kilometers from the property, requiring a walk or taxi.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of Sunbury Plantation House began in 1670, making it one of the oldest plantation houses in Barbados. It was originally built as a residence and operational center for a sugar plantation. The house has undergone several renovations and expansions over its history. The land itself is part of the fertile interior of Barbados, historically suitable for sugarcane cultivation.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can explore the main house, which is furnished with period antiques. The grounds include restored outbuildings such as the old kitchen, stables, and the rum shop. Guided tours are available, detailing the history of the plantation and the lives of its inhabitants. The property also features a small museum showcasing artifacts from the plantation era.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on the property. Shaded areas are provided by mature trees and the covered verandas of the outbuildings. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally available. Limited food and beverage options are typically offered on-site, primarily light refreshments.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography is mid-morning or late afternoon when the sunlight is less direct, reducing harsh shadows on the coral stone. The driest months in Barbados are generally from December to May, offering pleasant weather for exploring the grounds. There are no tide-dependent activities at this location.

Facts & Legends

A notable historical detail is that Sunbury Plantation House was rebuilt after a fire in 1770, with much of the current structure dating from that period. Local lore suggests that the original plantation was one of the first to utilize a water wheel for grinding sugarcane, though this is difficult to verify definitively.

Nearby Landmarks

• St. John's Parish Church (2.5km Northwest)
• Hunte's Gardens (3.0km West)
• Andromeda Botanic Gardens (3.5km Northwest)
• Bathsheba (4.0km North)