Chamberlain Bridge

The basics

Chamberlain Bridge connects National Heroes Square on one side to Independence Arch and Independence Square on the other. Walk across the bridge independently while sightseeing or join one of the Bridgetown walking tours that includes a stop here, which typically combine the bridge with other highlights. You'll often find food and souvenir vendors on both sides of the bridge, plus locals offering boat and bike rides to visitors.

Things to know before you go

• Motor vehicles are not allowed on the Chamberlain Bridge.

• There is no cost to cross the bridge.

• Depending on maritime traffic, the bridge is typically raised a few times daily to allow larger ships to pass underneath.

How to get there

The Chamberlain Bridge connects The Wharf Road to the north and Pier Head Lane to the south. If you are coming from Bridgetown Harbour Cruise Pier, it's a 1.2-mile (1.9-kilometer) walk along the Princess Alice Highway. Cruise ships typically offer shuttles that drop off near the square and you can find taxis queued nearby.

When to get there

The bridge is open 24 hours a day to pedestrian traffic. The only time you cannot cross the bridge is if it is being raised to allow boats to pass underneath, when you can walk across nearby Bridge Street instead—and take in views of Chamberlain raising.

Things you can do on the water in Barbados

Barbados is known for its stunning beaches and you can find some within a short walk of the Chamberlain Bridge along Carlisle Bay. Scuba and snorkeling cruises are popular in the area, as are sunset catamaran cruises. Head over to the Boatyard Beach Club, where you can reserve an umbrella and lounge chair in the sand and try out the rope swing and ocean slide.