History
Speightstown is the 2nd largest and northern most town in the island. Rooted in history, Speightstown houses many buildings dating back to the early settlement days. It also has a very historic feel; as you walk along the town you see many vendors selling fruits and vegetables as well as various handmade jewellery. Speightstown was one of the busiest ports in Barbados as it used to be an important cog in the island’s trading activities in the 17th century. It was was settled by landowner William Speight in 1630 and was originally named Spykeses Bay before it was named after him. The town is over 350 years old and its main street, Queen Street, runs directly though the centre of the town.
Museums
Arlington House Museum
- Frangipani Art Gallery – displays a collection of paintings and prints and useful to visit for those wish to explore local art.
- Arlington House Museum – an interactive 3 story museum that offers a unique experience. There are interactive audio-visual features in the museum which makes learning about Barbadian heritage fun and engaging.
Accommodation
Port St. Charles
- Schooner Bay – luxurious apartments located at the southernmost end of Speightstown.
- Port St. Charles – luxury beachfront and waterfront villas.
- Port Ferdinand – consists of various waterfront villas.
Food
- Has various well known fast food outlets such as KFC and Chefette.
- Fisherman’s pub – serves affordable local goods and is very popular among locals and tourists. Offers nice beachfront dining for lunch and dinner.
- L’Attitude Beach Bar and Grill – provides the option of beachfront dining or inside dining, allowing you to either enjoy the fresh breeze or sit inside surrounded by beautiful paintings.
- La Mer – overlooking the Port St. Charles marina, this restaurant serves international cuisine and is a great fine dining experience in Speightstown.
- Juma’s Restaurant – serves Classic French, Bajan and Thai cuisine.
Other places you can enjoy a quick bite include The Garden of Eden health shop, Little Bristol for those with more of a sweet tooth and Suga Bowl Café.
Shopping and Stores
Speightstown has two malls that house various stores such as Up Beat and Fashion Nation. There are also various other stores in and around Speightstown selling clothes, shoes and jewellery. Courts Barbados located in the centre of the town, is the only place available to purchase various electronics and appliances.
Attractions and Recreational Activities
- Speightstown Esplanade – a place near to the sea where persons can sit and relax. Usually hosts seasonal activities such as concerts.
- Beaches – Speightstown has a few beaches for liming and sea-bathing including Godings Bay, Speightstown Bay and Heywood’s beach.
Those who desire more action oriented activities can seek out Reefers and Wreckers Dive Shop (for diving), Radical Watersports and Just Chillin Watersports (for water sports such as skiing).
Getting Around
Speightstown is a very easy place to access either by van, bus or route taxi. Speightstown, Mile and a Quarter, Boscobelle and Connelltown buses all pass through the area.
