Mount Gay lays claim to being the world’s oldest commercial rum distillery, founded in 1703.

Those keen to sample the famous spirits should swing by the visitor centre, just north of Bridgetown – and within walking distance (just over a mile) of the cruise ship terminal – but since it’s only the site of the bottling plant, the tour (plus the sampling of four rums) is short and sweet. Alternatively, learn to mix and muddle (and sample) in the increasingly popular cocktail-making workshops.

Mount Gay also transports visitors to the actual distillery, set in the rolling wilds of St Lucy, in the North, for a more in-depth exploration of the historic estate, before the rum-tasting or cocktail-making masterclass.

Note: If you’re staying on the South Coast, you can spend an awful long time getting to and from the distillery. We suggest organising an independent visit if you’re hiring a car to explore The North – check out Northern Barbados In-a-Day itinerary – or visiting Foursquare Rum Distillery in stead, which is much nearer.

Practical Info

Visitor Centre: Mon–Fri 9am–5pm, Sat 8am–4pm. Rum tasting US$25 (1hr); rum tasting and lunch US$70 (2hr); cocktail-making workshop US$55 (2.5hr)

Distillery: Selected days (book online) US$70, or US$113 (with more rum!); cocktail making US$110. Rates include shared transfers; reduced rates if you opt out of transport when booking.

Transport: A ZR4 from Princess Alice Terminal (Bridgetown) can drop you at the top of the side road leading to the Visitor Centre. Bus #1B and 1C from Speightstown and Princess Alice Terminal in Bridgetown pass by the entrance to the distillery in St Lucy.

1 246 2278864

Mount Gay rum tours