Standing majestically side by side the two remaining stone sugar mills and the remains of the still house of Betty’s Hope provided the livelihood for many generations of Antiguans from the time is was established in 1650 during British Colonial rule. As the first large-scale sugar plantation on the island it flourished successfully under the ownership of Sir Christopher Codrington – Governor of the Leeward Islands who in 1674 name the estate Betty’s Hope after his daughter.
No longer a functional plantation Betty’s Hope restoration and conversion into an open air museum and national park began in 1990 by the Government of Antigua & Barbuda under the OEC/ESDU Eco-Tourism Enhancement Project. As active restoration continues new sails have been installed on the mill and the crushing machinery has been restored to working condition which is only demonstrated on special occasions since the mill’s walls are old and fragile. Future restoration plans are in place for the Cistern Complex to serviceable condition, the Great House, the Still House and the Boiling House which housed 16 copper hoppers used to boil cane juice to produce crystalline sugar.
Betty's Hope
Because of its rich history Betty’s Hope is a popular tourist and picnic stop open daily and visitors can tour the museum which was once the cotton house storeroom. The museum showcases Betty’s Hope early estate plans, pictures, maps, artifacts and much more. Its historic, picturesque and romantic appeal was the reason it was recently featured on the popular ABC TV Show The Bachelorette. Located in the limestone district of Antigua it is a 30-minute scenic and beautiful drive through our countryside filled with snapshots of village living, so don’t forget to bring your camera.
Experience this historical and romantic exploration for yourself with our year round 2-for-1 room rate special saving as much as US$50 daily. Capture the perfect sunset with your favourite cocktail during happy hour or dine under the sultry moonlight at our Bay House Restaurant & Bar. We beckon you to take a few minutes, and browse through our website, then click BOOK NOW for that exotic, peaceful, idyllic and tranquil escape to Trade Winds Hotel.
