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Blackman's Gully Bridge

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Blackman's Gully Bridge is a significant historical landmark located in the parish of St. Joseph, Barbados. Completed in 1682, this stone arch bridge is one of the oldest surviving structures of its kind in the Western Hemisphere. It was built during the height of the sugar industry to facilitate the movement of carts and livestock across the deep limestone gullies that crisscross the island's interior. The construction is famous for its use of coral stone and a unique mortar made from a mixture of coral lime and egg whites, a traditional colonial technique that provided extraordinary strength and durability. The bridge spans a lush, verdant gully typical of the rugged eastern geography of Barbados. Despite its age and exposure to centuries of tropical weather, the bridge remains in remarkable condition, standing as a testament to 17th-century masonry and engineering. It is now a popular stop for those exploring the scenic 'Scotland District' of the island, offering a glimpse into the colonial past and the island's natural botanical heritage.

Location: Barbados
Top sights: Hunte's Gardens · Branchbury · Saint Joseph, Barbados
Nearby: Belleplaine (4 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	26	26	26	27	28	28	28	28	28	28	28	27
Rain mm	34	19	19	28	52	72	74	95	98	132	107	49

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The bridge is a historic stone structure you can view and cross on foot. It spans a deep gully in St. Joseph, and the surrounding area is publicly accessible.

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Typical hours

The bridge is outdoors and always visible without any restrictions. Best visited during daylight hours for clear views and safety.

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Photography

Photograph the bridge from the roadside or the gully below. The stone arches and lush vegetation create excellent compositions.

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Time needed

Allow 15 to 30 minutes to admire the bridge and take photos. Combine with a short walk along the gully edge for additional views.

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Combine with

Nearby attractions include the St. Joseph parish church and the scenic Scotland District. The area gives several historic plantation houses to explore.

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Getting there

Drive along the main road through St. Joseph; the bridge is easily spotted from the road. Park safely on the shoulder and walk back to the bridge.

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Insider tip

Visit after a rainfall to see the gully with flowing water. Bring insect repellent as the area is lush and humid.

Geography

Coordinates

13.19000, -59.54000

Facts

Year built: circa 1750
Length: 20 meters (65.6 ft)
Width: 4 meters (13.1 ft)
Height above gully: 8 meters (26.2 ft)
Material: coral limestone
Protected heritage status since 1990

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Horse Hill<1 km · SEExplore →

Shorey Village2 km · EExplore →

Saint Jude's2 km · NWExplore →

Joe's River Forest2 km · NEExplore →

Fisherpond Great House2 km · WExplore →

Cole's Cave3 km · SExplore →

Blackman Field3 km · NExplore →

Workmans3 km · SWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Blackman's Gully Bridge (3)

Hunte's Gardens📍 landmark

Botanical garden in Saint Joseph, set in a limestone gully with tropical plants and sculptures.

Branchbury📍 landmark

Settlement in Saint Joseph, known for its rural setting and historic plantation architecture.

Saint Joseph, Barbados📍 landmark

Parish on the east coast, featuring cliffs, bays, and the well-known village of Bathsheba.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is this bridge located?

It is located in the parish of Saint Joseph in a lush, green gully.

Is the bridge old?

Yes, it is a historic stone arch bridge from the colonial era.

Can you park there?

There is limited space on the roadside as the road is narrow.

What is there to see nearby?

The surrounding area provides dense tropical vegetation and old mahogany trees.

Is the bridge safe for pedestrians?

Yes, but you must watch out for traffic as the bridge is part of a public road.

Blackman's Gully Bridge: where is it located?

Blackman's Gully Bridge is located in Barbados.

Blackman's Gully Bridge: what is there to see?

Highlights include Hunte's Gardens, Branchbury, Saint Joseph, Barbados.

Blackman's Gully Bridge: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.

Blackman's Gully Bridge: why is it worth visiting?

Blackman's Gully Bridge is a significant historical landmark located in the parish of St.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

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