Clifton Hall is one of Barbados’ oldest, largest and grandest great houses. Its fascinating history as a plantation begins in 1656 with its first known owner, Ferdinand Paleologus. A direct descendent of Constantine, the last Byzantine (Greek) Emperor, Paleologus is buried nearby at St. John’s Church. Clifton Hall appears in Robert Schomburgk’s 1848 classic, ‘The History of Barbados,’ and its large and stately residence has been chronicled in such publications as ‘Historic Houses of Barbados,’ Country Life Magazine, Maco Caribbean Living, and The Spectator.  

 

This historic Bajan plantation was rescued from ruination when owners Massimo & Karen Franchi purchased the near derelict property in 2009 and began renovation.  By 2014, the house and grounds were totally transformed.  Overall, the original historical character was retained yet a few modern comfortable family areas can be seen. The beautifully furnished five-bedroom mansion has three wings—the stunning Caribbean Georgian structure which was added in the late 18th/early 19th century together with the two original medieval-style wings that date back to the mid-1600’s. To further add to the history and fascination of Clifton Hall, British-born / American architect Peter Harrison, who has been called "the greatest architect who ever worked in America" is responsible for the redesign of four major buildings in Barbados including Clifton Hall Plantation.

 

In January 2014, Barbados National Trust featured Clifton Hall Great House in their ‘Open House’ programme, describing this pink mansion as a ‘gem’ of Barbados.  Since the official opening, hundreds of people annually have visited the house, exclaiming of its magnificence, its elegance and the unbelievable revival! 

 

A tour gives you the opportunity to explore and appreciate this stately home, with its gracious Palladian double entrance staircase, arcaded gallery, and spacious reception rooms. You’ll also get to see and learn about the ‘poor relations room’ (remember Jane Eyre?) concealed upstairs. Expansive gardens including an orchard with 300 fruit trees complete the experience.

 

The owner, Massimo Franchi, will usually conduct your interesting and entertaining private tour. To book, call 240-5198 in Barbados or email  info@cliftonhallgreathouse.com.  The tour will end with complimentary refreshments and cake whilst you sit and relax in this historical home. Cost $50 BDS ($25 USD) including refreshments. 

 

Directions: Follow signs for St John’s Church. As you drive past the church, the church should be on your right. You are half a kilometre from the house. Continue straight on and do not deviate; stay on the main road. You will then navigate a sharp left 90 degree bend at the bottom of the hill followed by a straight run of road.  In the distance, you’ll see a green setting, including tall palm trees and a 4-foot wall. Follow the main road straight into the laneway (do not follow bend to right).  You can’t miss the house on the right.  It is a marshmallow pink dream.