Saint John: Coral Reefs and Codrington College

Saint John in Barbados brings together several very different attractions: coral reefs shape Bath Beach and Martin’s Bay, Codrington College adds an architectural highlight, and Hackleton Cliff is associated with a local legend. If you are planning a stay, you can prioritize these themes according to your interests.

The coastal character of Bath Beach and Martin’s Bay

Thanks to an offshore coral reef, Bath Beach is considered one of the few calm beaches on the east coast of Barbados. The reef shapes the beach’s character. Bath Beach is also associated with a waterfall, considered the only above-ground waterfall on the island.

Martin’s Bay offers a different appeal. Reefs protect the beach from strong Atlantic currents and make it suitable for swimming in shallow water. When comparing these coastal attractions, a specific question arises: Is the calm character of Bath Beach more important to you, or Martin’s Bay’s suitability for swimming in shallow water?

Codrington College: Architecture and grounds

At Codrington College, architecture takes center stage. The chapel has a vaulted coffered ceiling and an altar made of ebony and Cordin wood. The main building was designed to evoke an Oxford quadrangle. The college is also considered the oldest theological college of the Anglican Church in the Western Hemisphere. Its architectural features span different scales: specific details of the chapel and a design reference that defines the main building. Together with its institutional distinction, they create a different focus for a visit than the beaches do.

Benches and picnic tables are available on the grounds for use as picnic areas; there is also a playground for children. These details complement the architectural perspective with practical options for taking a break and an area for children to play.

Hackleton Cliff and the local legend

According to a local legend, Hackleton Cliff was named after a resident who took his own life after losing the love of his life by riding over the cliff with his horse. The legend thus adds a local story to the architecture and coastline.

A wider view of Barbados

Barbados as a whole also offers other cultural and garden attractions. Historic Bridgetown is a well-preserved old town dating from the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries and an outstanding example of British colonial architecture; Bridgetown and its Garrison are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Andromeda Botanic Gardens are located between the parishes of St. Joseph and St. John, about 300 yards from the Atlantic on the east coast. The six-acre site is home to more than 500 different plant species and was created both as an ornamental garden and as a botanical garden for research purposes. Hunte’s Gardens is located on the grounds of a former sugar plantation.

Discover more destinations: Guinea, Clifton Hall, Saint Joseph, Saint George, Christ Church, St James, Saint Philip, St Lucy.

Return to the main travel overview: Barbados.