Overview:

: Folkestone Marine Park and Museum, Saint James In Barbados, is an 18 acre public park along the west coast of Barbados. It lies off the western tip of the world famous St. James' Parish Church and contains a collection of shipwrecks, coral reefs, and other aquatic life. The museum consists of various exhibitions and educational resources concerning the natural coastal and marine environment found in and around Barbados. The park is an essential part of Barbados’ environmental protection efforts to educate visitors about preservation and protection of their natural habitats. In addition, Folkestone has a picnic area, a Dive Centre, and is recognized as an underwater snorkeling and diving destination. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Barbados
Prominent Features:

Folkestone Marine Park and Museum: Located on the Caribbean Coast of Barbados, the Folkestone Marine Park and Museum offers an educational and entertaining experience for visitors. The 8-acre marine reserve boasts a variety of coral reefs, mangrove trees, and shoals that are home to many species of colorful tropical fish, including parrotfish, angelfish, and sea stars. Additionally, visitors have a chance to explore the fascinating underwater world through glass-bottomed boat rides or snorkeling excursions. The park's museum showcases the local marine wildlife with displays of shells, landscapes, and specimens. St. James: Located on the picturesque west coast of Barbados, the charming St. James area offers an array of activities and attractions. Visitors can relax on the golden sandy beaches, enjoy an array of watersports, or explore the historic St. James Church. The town is also home to the renowned St. James Rum Distillery, as well as several restaurants and boutiques. At night, the colorful streets come to life with vibrant music and street party festivities. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Barbados.

History:

Folkestone Marine Park and Museum, located in the parish of St James in Barbados, is a historic landmark situated on the westernmost tip of the Caribbean island. It was once the site of a defensive battery, the remains of which can still be seen today. The Marine Park was established in 1982 and both the park and the museum are managed by the Barbadian National Trust. The museum houses a number of artifacts including a replica of an early sea-going ship, 20th century artifacts, sea shells and other sea life specimens. Research and conservation is also a priority of the museum, which studies marine creatures and coral species. The Marine Park also has an education centre with interactive displays on various topics such as oceanography and the history of Barbados. The Folkestone Marine Park is a popular attraction for both locals and tourists, as it is one of the few places on the island with stunning views of its rocky shoreline. Visitors to the park can often spot sea turtles swimming up close to the shore and bird species such as the brown pelican, frigatebirds and ospreys. The park has become a hotspot for visitors looking to take part in a variety of activities, such as snorkeling, sailing, diving, windsurfing and waterskiing. On-site amenities include rest rooms, a gift shop, a snack bar and an interpretive centre highlighting the history of the Barbadian people and their knowledge of the sea. The surrounding area is a protected beach and a natural habitat for many species of coral, fish and other marine life. Visit one of the famous monuments of Barbados with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. The Folkestone Marine Park and Museum was first established in 1991, making it one of the oldest museums in Barbados. 2. It is situated on the rugged southern coast of Barbados, in the town of St James and is open to visitors all year round. 3. It is located in a natural marine environment and is home to a wide variety of tropical marine life. 4. The museum holds over 800 exhibits featuring many coral species, shells, turtles, crabs, and lobsters. 5. There’s also living coral specimens which have been raised in laboratory conditions to be used as teaching material. 6. The museum also houses a wide range of artifacts associated with Barbados’s rich cultural heritage including traditional fishing gear, model boats, and much more. 7. The Folkestone Marine Park also has a turtle nursery where visitors can learn about the conservation of endangered sea turtles native to the Caribbean. 8. The museum also hosts regular workshops and interactive activities throughout the year for visitors of all ages. One of the historical monuments of Barbados, it tells the story of a bygone era