Overview:

is a former British military base located in the capital city of Barbados, Bridgetown. It is located on the west side of the city along the shore of Carlisle Bay and is now a popular tourist destination. Garrison Savannah contains a wide range of historic sites, forts, museums and other attractions which show the history of Barbados. It was the site of the first major battles during the Napoleonic Wars and was also the base from where the HMS Cavalier departed for the Battle of Trafalgar. It also contains the Garrison or Graeco-Roman type of architecture that was used during the British colonial rule, which can still be seen today. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Barbados
Prominent Features:

Garrison Savannah: The 18th century British Garrison in Bridgetown, Barbados, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built to house troops and act as a center of government, Garrison Savannah is a large open grassed area surrounded by sandstone defensive walls. The grounds are home to the Barbados National Stadium, the Barbados Turf Club, the Barbados Museum and Historical Society, as well as many military memorials and monuments. Bridgetown: The capital of Barbados, Bridgetown is a thriving port city located in the south-central part of the island. It is the center of cultural, commercial and entertainment activities, boasting many historical sites, heritage buildings, vibrant markets, duty-free shopping, and luxury resorts. Popular attractions include the Parliament Buildings, Carlisle Bay, St. Michael's Cathedral, and the National Heroes Square. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Barbados.

History:

Garrison Savannah is an historic military base and horse racing track in Bridgetown, Barbados. Located close to the Barbados Parliament buildings, the Garrison Savannah is one of the oldest equestrian venues in the Caribbean. The site of the current Garrison Savannah was formerly known as the "Nut Field" and was part of a large estate owned by the Codrington family. In 1869 it was leased to the British Army to be used as a base for the Royal Garrison Artillery. Initially, the Garrison was used as a training ground for the local Barbadian militia, but its popularity soon grew and in 1875 it was opened to the public for horse racing. Since then, the Garrison Savannah has become Barbados’ foremost racing venue, playing host to the Barbados Derby, the Barbados Triple Crown and several other coveted races. The Garrison Savannah is also considered the birthplace of the sport of polo in Barbados, as several members of the local militia introduced the game in the late 19th century. In 2008, UNESCO declared the Garrison Savannah a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This recognition came about due to the Garrison Savannah’s exemplary conservation efforts. The preservation of the Garrison Savannah’s natural features, colonial architecture, and historical artifacts were key reasons for its designation as a World Heritage Site. Today the Garrison Savannah is one of the most popular equestrian venues in the Caribbean, playing host to some of the most prestigious races in the region. In addition, the Garrison Savannah serves as a tourist destination, providing visitors with the opportunity to see an important part of Barbados’ past. Visit one of the famous monuments of Barbados with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Garrison Savannah is the only racecourse in the western hemisphere to offer a horserace viewing platform open to the public. 2. The races at the Garrison Savannah have been taking place since the 1845, making it one of the oldest racetracks in the world. 3. The legendary racehorse Colonial Garrison won the Gold Cup at the Garrison Savannah in 1847 and is seen as the father of Barbadian horse racing. 4. The Barbados Derby is a highly regarded annual event that has been taking place at the Garrison Savannah since 1967. 5. The Garrison Savannah is home to two grandstands which are named after influential Barbadian figures in the horseracing world. The Jubilee Stand is named after Charles Turner Williams who was the chief race steward until his retirement in 1941, while the Patron’s Stand is dedicated to Sir Wesly Hall who was the patron saint of Barbadian racing and was instrumental in making the Barbados Derby a reality. 6. The Garrison Savannah is also home to the Barbados Museum and Historical Society which features displays of Barbadian art, culture, and history. 7. The combination of the Garrison Savannah and the Barbados Museum and Historical Society have established the area as one of the most important tourist attractions in Bridgetown. One of the historical monuments of Barbados, it tells the story of a bygone era