St John is one of the eastern parishes on the island of Barbados. Much like other parishes, there are historical sites and many opportunities to interact with its residents and, if you’re looking for an eco-tourism experience, St John is one of the few parishes where you can also find a blend of relaxing bays, dramatic cliffs and rich countryside just within minutes of each other.
Top Places to Visit in St John
St John is one of the eastern parishes on the island of Barbados. Much like other parishes, there are historical sites and many opportunities to interact with its residents and, if you’re looking for an eco-tourism experience, St John is one of the few parishes where you can also find a blend of relaxing bays, dramatic cliffs and rich countryside just within minutes of each other.
- Ocean Echo Stables - To experience the tranquillity of St John and explore the parish by horse or by foot, Ocean Echo Stables is a one-stop-shop. You can book your stay in one of their on-site self-catering apartments which capture the breeze from the Atlantic Trade winds while providing a stunning view of the sun as it rises over the east coast. Start your day with invigorating yoga sessions; listen to the sound of the nearby waves; take a walk through the natural, lush landscape; or journey on horseback through the countryside, to nearby beaches or to the many lookout points which the parish has to offer. These activities are open to everyone whether you’re staying in the apartments or not, and they are a guaranteed delight for both visitors and residents.
- Hackleton’s Cliff - St John has some of the most spectacular views on that side of the island. A popular lookout spot stands at the top of a perpendicular cliff, approximately 1000 feet above sea level – Hackleton’s Cliff. According to legend, this incredible site got its name because of a resident, lost the love of his life and subsequently committed suicide by riding his horse off this cliff. While that tale has been the subject of many stories, the area is better known for its panoramic views of the island’s east coast. On a clear day, you can stand on the cliff and see from the far north to the south-east coasts of the island It’s no wonder that this is a favourite stop for anyone doing an island tour!
- Codrington College - There is no shortage of fantastic views in St John and those at Codrington College are no exception. Officially opened as a grammar school in 1745 and then restructured in 1830 specifically to prepare young men for priesthood, Codrington can boast of being the oldest theological college attached to the Anglican church in the Western Hemisphere. Visitors to this historic site travel down the driveway lined with lofty palm trees which seem to guide you into the archways of this statuesque building and onto the vast lawn which overlooks the Atlantic Ocean. It is not unusual to see persons relaxing in the sun on the lawns or in the natural shade provided around the lily pond. The pond is home to ducks and a variety of fish in their natural habitat. It is the perfect spot for a family excursion, a romantic evening or simply a moment of quiet reflection.
- St John’s Parish Church - Just a few minutes away is the serenity of St John’s Parish Church. With the original construction dating back to the mid-late 17th century, this is one of the oldest consecrated spaces on the island. However, like many other local Anglican churches, the one which stands today was built in the 19th century since the previous buildings were destroyed by fire and hurricanes, making the current building the 5th church on that site. With its striking stained-glass windows, magnificent indoor woodwork and Gothic-style architecture, the church is an absolute must-see. But the beauty extends beyond the physical building. A walk through the graveyard on the grounds of the church reveals the graves of Thomas Hughes and also Ferdinando Paleologus who was a relative of the Christian Emperor Constantine the Great. And as a bonus, in the clearing beyond the graves, you will find yet another exquisite view of the island’s entire east coast.
- Clifton Hall Plantation - Paleologus lived in Barbados for some 20 years and it is, therefore, no surprise that he would have owned property on the island. He was said to be the first owner of the great house at Clifton Hall Plantation in 1656. This great house is one of the island’s oldest and most impressive properties from this era. Nestled in a lush, tropical landscape of mature gardens, the current great house was restored in 2009 by its current owners. This restoration retained the elements of its original architecture which reflected a fusion of medieval and Georgian features while enhancing the property with modern conveniences. Visitors can contact the owners for a tour of the immaculately maintained grounds and the stately house.
- Bath Beach and its waterfall - No trip to St John would not be complete without visiting Bath Beach and its waterfall. Bath, as it is referred to by residents, is one of the few calm beaches along the east coast thanks to the offshore coral reef. The tall trees providing shade by the seaside make this a much-loved picnic spot among residents in Barbados. While some prefer to frolic along the beaches and in the waters of the Atlantic Ocean, others would rather journey to the only existing over-ground waterfall on the island. There you can refresh your feet in the small pools created at the base of the waterfall or you can take an easy hike up the hill and through the vegetation along the water’s path to find the source of its stream. You could also ask a knowledgeable resident to guide you to see the remains of the train line which was used to connect the east coast to the city of Bridgetown during colonial times.
- Martin’s Bay - Hiking northward along that old train line will lead you into another bay and fishing village called Martin’s Bay. Like Bath, the reefs provide safety from the strong Atlantic currents, making this a safe beach for shallow water swimming. If you are visiting Martin’s Bay, be sure to go to the Bay Tavern Restaurant on Thursdays for their much-loved weekly seafood event when you are guaranteed to sample some of the village’s finest catches, including lobster caught in the nearby reefs. While you cannot see the setting sun on this side of the island, Martin’s Bay offers a brilliant view of the evening sky against the open ocean, providing a backdrop that could be any photographer’s dream!
- The Village Bar - If you prefer to sample some of the island’s pork delicacies, that too can be found in St. John in Lemon Arbor at The Village Bar. Bringing the parish to life on weekends, The Village Bar is a hub of activity as residents travel from around the country to purchase their portions of pudding and souse – a local Saturday delicacy! As is common in this parish, your dining experience at The Village Bar will be accompanied by scenic views and a cool breeze to keep you comfortable. While they are best known for their pork dishes, non-pork eaters are most certainly welcomed as the chefs have also mastered their offerings of fish, chicken, beef and salad platters.
- Hope Sanctuary or Ocean Acres Animal Sanctuary - St John also provides refuge for abandoned and homeless animals. Continuing the work that was started by the Hope Sanctuary, Ocean Acres Animal Sanctuary operates in the parish and provides care and shelter for cats and dogs. They also offer rehabilitative animal care and run an animal adoption programme. The staff at the shelter work diligently in this labour of love to ensure that their animals are healthy, loving and trusting companions for potential owners. They are a non-profit organisation, so feel free to donate to their cause. Or, if you’re smitten by the beauty of Barbados and are considering buying a property here, be sure to visit the sanctuary and adopt at least one of these loving animals into your new family home.
The parish of St John is a diverse one with its cliffs and bays; great houses and villages; awe-inspiring Atlantic views and natural lush landscapes. When you plan your trip to Barbados, be sure to schedule your visit where you can fall in love with everything that the parish has on display!