Even 250 years ago, Barbados had a reputation for beauty. In its strategic position among the trade winds, it was known for having a gentle, restorative climate. So it was that Bridgetown ended up being the only city outside the United States to be visited by the young George Washington.Nearly four decades before he became president of the newly formed United States of America, the 19-year-old George Washington and his brother Lawrence visited Barbados in 1751. Desperately seeking a cure for Lawrence’s tuberculosis, they came to Barbados for the sunshine, medical expertise and revitalising sea breezes of the island. Sadly, Lawrence didn’t get better, and further tragedy seemed imminent when George contracted smallpox. Barbadians credit Dr Lanaham, a local medic, with saving the day, curing George, enabling him to go on to be a powerful world leader.For two months, George Washington lived in ‘Bush Hill House’ in Bridgetown, a yellow building with green shutters which is now preserved by the Barbados National Trust. The exhibits inside give a glimpse of life in Barbados centuries ago – as you walk around you can imagine what it was like for George and his brother.On the ground floor, immerse yourself in 18th-century Barbadian life. There’s a face basin and chamber pot – the house had no indoor plumbing of course. An ingenious arrangement of stacked masonry jars show how a simple and effective technology was used to filter and chill water using diffusion and evaporation. There are also dishes and utensils on display in the kitchen, recently recovered when archaeological work was carried out here.Further on inside the house, there is an exhibition of 18th-century medical implements, similar to those used by Dr Lanaham when he treated the Washington brothers. Keep exploring and you’ll also find a small display on the slave history of the island, from farming artefacts and cooking implements, to manacles and other tools representing the darker side of slavery.
George Washington House Tours and Activities
Visit George Washington House
Popular places to visit
Garrison Savannah
Catch an event at Garrison Savannah and enjoy other activities in Bridgetown such as surfing.Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.
Needhams Point
Explore the lovely green spaces of Needhams Point and enjoy the surfing in Bridgetown. Stroll along the area's seaside or simply savour its seafood restaurants.
Carlisle Bay
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Carlisle Bay during your travels in Bridgetown. Amble around this family-friendly area's beautiful beaches and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.
Brownes Beach
If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Brownes Beach might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Bridgetown. Wander the area's seaside or simply enjoy one of its top-notch restaurants.
Barbados Parliament Buildings
Barbados Parliament Buildings is just one of the places to see in Bridgetown, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Discover the area's beautiful sunsets and seafood restaurants.
St. Michael's Cathedral
Find out about the history of Weymouth with a stop at St. Michael's Cathedral. Wander the beautiful beaches or discover the area's beautiful sunsets.