Formerly an important port nicknamed ‘Little Bristol’, charming Speightstown has an authentic edge which contrasts with the more tourist-targeted Holetown to the south. While no longer a seafaring hub, it’s still busy and enjoyably historic. A museum and gallery of Caribbean Art are among its attractions, as are its beautiful beaches which are quieter than many of those along the coast.
North of the town, the Six Men’s Fish Market is the place to be on Friday and Saturday nights. Its fish fry is quite the occasion, where you can enjoy the fresh catch under the night sky, along with live entertainment. A 165ft-long shipwreck called the Pamir lies just off Six Men’s Bay, and is part of the reason this is a popular spot for scuba-diving too.
Head south of Speightstown, and the glamorous ‘Platinum Coast’ awaits you. The area around Holetown is something of a playground for the rich and famous, attracted no doubt by its secluded coves, white sand beaches and cool waterfront restaurants. Plenty of luxury stores and hotels have made their mark in Holetown, and there’s lots of nightlife, especially around First and Second Streets. A stroll along the boardwalk is a great way to soak up the atmosphere of this most upscale of Barbadian towns.
Inland from Speightstown lies the natural beauty of the Farley Hill National Park, just eight minutes’ drive from town. The park was once the site of a beautiful Georgian mansion house which entertained royalty – the remains of it are still there today. Enjoying a fresh Atlantic breeze from the east, it’s a fine place for a picnic or to enjoy live entertainment – events such as the Barbados Reggae Festival are often held at Farley Hill.