Destination guide: The Concorde Experience

The Concorde Experience in Barbados is a must-see attraction for aviation and history enthusiasts.

Located just a short distance from the Grantley Adams International Airport in the parish of Christ Church, the experience offers visitors a chance to see the iconic Concorde aircraft up close and personal and get a glimpse into what it was like to fly on the legendary plane.

Situated in a hanger-like museum the British Airways Concorde G-BOAE (aka Alpha Echo), which was loaned to the island in recognition of the role it played in the aircraft’s success, is proudly displayed in the middle of the large space and commands your attention with its sleek curves and cutting-edge design.

Before stepping inside the plane, visitors are given an opportunity to learn about the early history of aviation, the first attempts at flight, and how the industry has developed over the decades. The museum also houses exhibits on the concept of supersonic flight and shows how the Concorde plane went from an idea to reality.

A multimedia presentation demonstrates how passengers were able to “fly at Mach 2 speed in comfort and style”, and there’s even a departure lounge modelled on the famous Concorde Room at London’s Heathrow Airport.

Display panels located throughout the complex explain more about the history of aviation in Barbados, dating back to the first flight from the Garrison Savannah in 1913, and you are also given the chance to sit at the controls and “fly” a Concorde via a flight simulator.

After you’ve seen what the plane is like inside, you can walk up to a strategically placed observation deck to see the Concorde plane from above and watch aircraft as they come in to land and take off from Barbados’ airport.

The museum is open Tuesdays to Saturdays from 9am – 5pm (last tour at 4pm) and costs $20 (BBD) for adults and $12.50 for children aged 2 – 12 years. An extensive gift shop means you can’t go home without a souvenir of your visit.

The Concorde Experience is a one-of-a-kind museum and an experience you are certain to enjoy and remember for a long time.

(Please note the Barbados Concorde Experience is currently closed – visit its Facebook Page for more updates.)