Explore: Gun Hill

Although Barbados is known for its abundance of white sand beaches and bright blue seas, the island also possesses many notable attractions rich with history for you to discover. Located 700ft above sea level on the highlands of the parish of St. George, Gun Hill Signal Station has arguably one of the most impressive views of the island, overlooking the East, moving through the South and finally the captivating West Coast of Barbados.

Built in 1818, Gun Hill Signal Station is one of a series of six stations strategically located throughout the island used to sight approaching ships and with the use of the appropriate combination of flags, warn about incoming enemy attacks, slave rebellions and even cane field fires. The stations were also used for hurricane warnings which were determined by a sudden drop in barometric pressure. Gun Hill Signal Station was also used as a rest camp for injured or sick soldiers in the army of British Garrison to recover.  The location of the signal station proved to be very strategic and advantageous for the soldiers during that time.

As one can imagine, time moved slowly during this time. Captain Henry Wilkinson, along with four other soldiers stationed at Gun Hill, carved the statue of a lion out of a single piece of rock in 1868. The statue of the lion is still at Gun Hill and is a popular attraction for both tourists and locals! This attraction is a must-see and is included in many island tours and island safaris!

During the decline of signal stations, Gun Hill fell into a state of disrepair. Instead of letting the significant sight remain in ruins, the Barbados National Trust restored Gun Hill in 1981, complete with a military memorabilia collection on display located in the back of the signal tower.