Barbados Parliament Buildings

Established in 1639, the Barbados Parliament is the Commonwealth’s third-oldest and sat at various locations in Bridgetown until the Parliament Buildings were completed. Today, Barbados’ Senate and House of Assembly meet in the East Wing. The West Wing, meanwhile, houses the Museum of Parliament and National Heroes Gallery, which chart Barbados’ history; both are closed until further notice.

The Parliament Buildings complex is a top Bridgetown attraction for its Gothic revival design, most notable in its pointed arches and parapets that echo many British Victorian public buildings. You can view these exterior features independently, or on city walking tours and shore excursions, which typically cover the site alongside landmarks like St. Mary’s Anglican Church and Nidhe Israel Synagogue. Other ways to see the buildings include Bridgetown tours that also add on beach stops and tastings of Bajan food.

• The Barbados Parliament Buildings will interest history, politics, and architecture enthusiasts.

• Most Bridgetown tours include time to view the buildings’ exteriors.

• Tours inside the Senate and Assembly are sometimes offered when the chambers are not in session. On the day of your visit, ask about availability at the buildings.

The Parliament Buildings overlook National Heroes Square on Bridgetown’s Broad Street. The nearest transport hub is Granville Williams Bus Terminal on Fairchild Street, around a 5-minute walk away; buses from much of the island terminate here. If you’re driving, Bridgetown parking is strictly regulated, so most visitors use the payable parking lots dotted around its center.

You can walk around the Barbados Parliament Buildings at any time of day. Consider coming after dark in November and December, when you might catch them lit up in celebration of Barbados’ Independence Day and Christmas. It’s worth noting that Bridgetown gets congested on weekday rush hours around 7:30am–9am and 4:30pm–6pm; driving isn’t recommended during these times.

Built from coral limestone, the Parliament Buildings have several features worth a closer look. View the green courtyard railings and West Wing’s clock tower: two pieces of solid Victoriana, which contrast beautifully with the tropical-style louvered shutters on many windows. The clock tower is interesting for having replaced its original East Wing predecessor, demolished in 1884 when it was found to be sinking.