There’s not much to do or see at Codrington College, but it is wonderfully tranquil and the setting is extremely picturesque, making it well worth dropping by if you’re passing. You arrive down a majestic avenue of lofty cabbage palms, with the coral-stone college immediately ahead.

Walking through the dramatic three-arched portico takes you to a lawn affording splendid views across to the fishing village of Conset Bay. As you enter the portico, note the handsome wood-panelled chapel, on the right; opposite is the hall, containing a bust of the benefactor. In front, a spring-fed ornamental lake is covered with water lilies and surrounded by magnificent kapok, mahogany and cedar trees.

History

The college is named after Christopher Codrington, a wealthy Barbadian who was Governor of the Leeward Islands from 1699 to 1702. He died a few years later, bequeathing his estate to an Anglican missionary society, hoping that a theological institution would be founded. Although the building was completed in 1743, for various reasons, the envisaged theological college didn’t actually happen until 1829–1830. Since then it has had a troubled history, struggling with finances, hurricanes and even a fire. It still trains would-be Anglican vicars but is now affiliated to the University of the West Indies.

Practical Info

Daily 10am–5pm

Adults BD$10; Children BD$2; Guided tour BD$35

By car: Take Highway 4 ENE out of Bridgetown, travelling for 13 miles (22km) (40min).

By bus: The #7 bus to Sargeant Street from Granville Williams Bus Terminal (Bridgetown) passes the college driveway. Check the bus timetable.

1 246 4168051

codringtoncollege.edu.bb