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Gun Hill

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Landmark
—°3
Gun Hill (Barbados)

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Gun Hill Signal Station in the parish of St. George is a premier historic site in Barbados, originally built in 1818 to form part of a chain of signal stations across the island. Its primary function was to relay military messages and warnings of approaching ships using a system of flags and lanterns. The most iconic feature of the site is the Gun Hill Lion, a massive sculpture carved from a single piece of limestone in 1868 by Captain Henry Wilkinson. The lion stands as a testament to the British colonial presence, depicted with a paw resting on a serpent. From its elevation of roughly 210 meters, the station provides an unparalleled 360-degree view of the southern plains and the Caribbean Sea. The meticulously maintained grounds and the restored station buildings now house a collection of military memorabilia, offering a vivid glimpse into the 19th-century history of the island's defense systems.

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Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C262626272828282828282827
Rain mm34191928527274959813210749

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
Gun Hill is a natural hill, freely accessible from outside and the top. There is no entrance fee as it is open terrain. Enjoy the panoramic view over the southern plains.
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Typical hours
The hill is accessible at any time as there are no gates or opening hours. Best visited during daylight, especially early morning or late afternoon for better light.
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Photography
Photography is unrestricted here; the wide view gives excellent panoramic shots. A wide-angle lens is recommended to capture the entire landscape. Tripod is fine.
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Time needed
Allow about 30 minutes to one hour for the hilltop stay. If you hike or explore the surroundings, it may take longer. The ascent is moderate.
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Combine with
Gun Hill is near Gun Hill Signal Station, so a combination is handy. The nearby village of Codrington is also worth a visit.
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Getting there
The hill is accessible by car via a paved road that leads to a parking area. From there, it's just a few minutes' walk to the top. Public transport is scarce.
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Insider tip
Come early to enjoy the best view without haze. Bring water as there are no drink stalls on site.

Geography

Coordinates
13.14360, -59.55390

Facts

  • Height: 150 m
  • Year station built: 1810
  • Height of stone lion: 3 m
  • Cannons on display: 2
  • Museum area: 500 m²
  • Annual visitors: 15,000

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Gun Hill GardensGun Hill Gardens<1 km · SEExplore →
WorkmansWorkmans1 km · NWExplore →
ConstantConstant2 km · SWExplore →
Fisherpond Great HouseFisherpond Great House2 km · NEExplore →
St. George's Parish ChurchSt. George's Parish Church2 km · SEExplore →
StepneyStepney3 km · SExplore →
Mount JoyMount Joy3 km · NWExplore →
WildernessWilderness3 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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

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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Gun Hill (3)

Gun Hill Signal Station📍 landmark

Historic signal station on Barbados, featuring a white lion carved from stone.

Newbury, Barbados📍 landmark

Settlement in the parish of Saint George, Barbados, with a rural character.

Ellerton, Barbados📍 landmark

Village in the parish of Saint George, Barbados, located near the coast.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is Gun Hill Signal Station?
It is a historic signal station built in 1818, used for communication across the island.
Who created the famous Gun Hill lion?
The white lion was carved from a single limestone rock in 1868 by Captain Henry Wilkinson.
Is there a good view from there?
Yes, it provides one of the best panoramic views over southern Barbados and Bridgetown.
Is there a museum on-site?
Inside the signal station, there is a small exhibition of military artifacts and historical items.
When is the signal station open?
Usually daily from 09:00 AM to 05:00 PM; it is often closed on Mondays.
Gun Hill: where is it located?
Gun Hill is located in Barbados.
Gun Hill: what is there to see?
Highlights include Gun Hill Signal Station, Newbury, Barbados, Ellerton, Barbados.
Gun Hill: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Gun Hill: why is it worth visiting?
Gun Hill Signal Station in the parish of St.
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