What to do in Barbados when it rains

We’d better start off by saying that rain is very rare here in Barbados! The island is well known for its beautiful weather, with over 3,000 hours of sunshine every year.

 

However, rainy days do happen now and then, but don’t panic! A bit of rain doesn’t need to ruin your day and could even lead to some of the best days of your holiday.

That’s because there’s loads to see and do around Barbados, whether it be historic sites, shops or art galleries.

Here are some of our favourite things to do on a rainy day in Barbados.

Mount Gay Rum Distilleries

Rum is by far the number one drink in the Caribbean, and as it happens, Barbados is home to the world’s oldest.

Mount Gay has been distilled on the island for over 300 years and they have a distillery and visitor’s centre which you can take a look around.

There are all kinds of exhibits and artefacts you can take a look at, as well as plenty of rum to try! Simply sit back, enjoy some quality rum, and wait for the clouds to clear!

Harrison’s Cave

There are plenty of things which make a nice alternative when the rain is pouring, but Harrison’s Cave is one where the rain can actually enhance the experience!

Situated 160 feet under the island, the many waterfalls and streams throughout the cave flow much more on a rainy day.

There’s a tram tour through the cave, a walking tour, an eco-adventure and a scenic gully tour too!

However you choose to experience the caves, you’ll be blown away by the impressive rock formations below.

Barbados Museum and Historical Society

If you want to learn more about the history of the island, you’ll want to head to the Barbados Museum and Historical Society. It’s only a small building so it might not take up your whole day, but there are plenty of exhibits to enjoy.

The museum itself is found in the 19th-century military garrison and you can still see some of the original cells.

All aspects of the island’s history are covered here, whether it be culture, the links with the sugar and slave trades or the natural landscape.

George Washington House

Did you know that George Washington only ever left the US once, and it was to visit Barbados?

Well, you can visit the house that the 19-year-old future president stayed at in 1751. It’s a typical example of the traditional plantation house and is a good glimpse into what life was like on the island in the 17th and 18th centuries, with a museum and café to relax in while you wait for the rain to clear.

Limegrove Lifestyle Centre

What better way to spend a rainy day than a bit of retail therapy? Luckily, Barbados is home to its own luxury shopping centre the Limegrove.

The Limegrove is home to all the big brands but also has its own art gallery, cinema, restaurants, cafes and bars to enjoy, all without having to step outside.

Barbados Concorde Experience

Not many people have the chance to set foot on board Concorde these days, but that’s exactly what you can do at Grantley Adams Airport.

One of the most impressive feats of engineering of the modern era, the supersonic jet has been grounded since 2003, but you can still see this surviving model here in Barbados.

It’s a unique attraction which you might not have known about when you booked your holiday, so certainly one to check out if the beach is off the cards.

Morgan Lewis Windmill

Only two sugar mills are still intact in the Caribbean and this is one of them. The Morgan Lewis Windmill shows how sugar was produced back when the industry relied heavily on wind power.

If you visit during the season, you’ll be able to taste from fresh sugar cane juice. And while it might be so great on a rainy day, the mill is still located atop a hill with some of the most breathtaking views of the island.

St. Nicholas Abbey

One of the first plantation houses on the island, this three-storey mansion has been lovingly restored to resemble its 17th-century self.

One of the most notable attractions of historical significance in Barbados, you can really see the British influence on the house. It also has its own rum distillery and a café too.

We hope this has given you a couple of ideas for things to do if you do happen to get caught in the rain while visiting Barbados! Be sure to keep an eye on our blog for more great tips and island news.