Holidays in Barbados 2023/2024

Right in the heart of Barbados lies one of its best natural living wonders: Harrison's Cave. Head deep below the forested hillside to discover a 1.5-mile long cavern dripping with mammoth stalagmites and stalactites that catch the eye in some of the cave’s landmarks, such as the Village and the Great Hall. Hop on a tour aboard a tram and go deep into its spectacular galleries, winding past subterranean streams, glassy mineral pools and a luminous waterfall. It’s a magical underground world laced with a fascinating history which will leave you gasping at every turn.

Set in the super-cool atmosphere of St Lawrence Gap, Cocktail Kitchen is our number one pick for soaking up beachside views. Its innovative menu matches the pulse of this hip waterfront area, where traditional fare rubs shoulders with more contemporary international food. For the ultimate three-course meal, our pick would be the braised oxtail to start, followed by the parmesan-crusted catch of the day and finished off with the spiced banana sticky toffee pudding. But it’s the cocktails that set this fun diner apart (the clue’s in the name) and whichever you choose, it’s going to taste good when you’re admiring the fine views of the bay from its rooftop bar…

If you’re after the best view of Barbados, then Hackleton’s Cliff arguably has it. The climb up this near-1,000 foot escarpment – one of the highest points on the island – is worth it for the panoramic views of the lush rugged slopes and wild Atlantic coastline. It’s an epic sight of Scotland – no, you aren’t back on the British Isles, rather it’s the Barbados district affectionately named by former settlers as a reminder of their homeland.

Though Bridgetown may have the lion’s share of Barbados’ British history, one of the island’s finest colonial jewels lies in its far north. St. Nicholas Abbey is a sugar plantation and rum distillery built in 1658 and remains one of only three Jacobean mansions in the western hemisphere. The well-preserved grounds, architecture and furniture are a treat to wander, while a charming museum sheds more light on its captivating history. Tours will often include rum tasting and with Barbados considered the birthplace of rum, there’s no better place to savour this spirit.

The calm waters of Barbados’ west Caribbean coast are ideal conditions for a relaxing catamaran cruise. Admire the calm sea views before taking a dip to snorkel with turtles or see a shipwreck resting on the ocean floor. Dry off for a tasty Bajan buffet meal served on deck with rum punch. You can choose from day or sunset cruises, the latter adding a splash of romance to your watery adventure.

No vaccinations are recommended for Barbados but the country is regarded to have a risk of contracting the Zika virus. However, please consult your GP at least four to six weeks prior to travel for current advice.

The time difference is GMT -4 hours.

The flight time from London to Bridgetown is from around nine hours.

The currency is the Barbadian dollar, although US dollars are widely accepted.

British passport holders don’t need a visa to travel to Barbados.