For just over half a century – between 1881 and 1937 – Barbados possessed a railway line, which eventually ran 24 miles (39km) from Bridgetown, across the relatively flat southern parishes, then all the way up the East Coast to Belleplaine. Though there are relatively few visible remains of the railway today, it nevertheless provides the route for the Colin Hudson Great Train Hike, which is undertaken each year by numerous hardy hikers – both resident and visiting.

Some walk only sections of the route; others cover the whole distance, most starting at Independence Square (this entry’s map location) in Bridgetown, which was once the site of the train station. You’ll stride through cane fields, clamber across gullies, push your way through tropical forest and hike along the scenic East Coast, though the last stretch is a bit of a slog along the hot tarmac of the Ermy Bourne Highway.

The annual event is held in memory of Dr Colin Hudson, whose brainchild it was, and who, for years, led many of the National Trust’s regular Sunday hikes.

Note that although the route is fairly flat, it can get rough underfoot and inevitably it gets hot, so you’ll need a hat, plenty of sun protection, sturdy footwear and lots of water and energy-giving food.

Practical Info

The Hike Barbados webpage has details of the Great Train Hike, as well as the weekly hikes.

Hikes are also advertised on What’s On In Barbados.