Mélange Travel & Lifestyle Magazine January 2019 | Page 50

Clarence
House
This elegant Georgian country estate in
English Harbour is a visual reminder of
the gentrified living that was once a way
of life for some on the island of Antigua.
Built in 1806, it was formerly the residence
of the Commissioner of the Royal Navy’s
Dockyard. Constructed of stone with
wood-lined interior, this great house
suffered many hurricanes and repairs over
the years and eventually succumbed to
the excessive battering from the weather.
It lay in ruins until recently restored. At
its scenic location overlooking Nelson’s
Dockyard, it is now a World Heritage Site,
resplendent in its former glory. Prince
Harry had the honour of re-opening it
when he visited the island in 2015.
Now the home of the island’s Governor
General, guided tours will take you
through this historic residence which is
tastefully laid out with period furniture,
including a chamber pot built into a chest
of drawers that will without a doubt take
you back centuries.
You can come here for a tour of the house,
to revel in the antique furnishings and
gasp as history is re-told, or you can come
for the magnificent view of the harbour
and enjoy the beautiful garden.
Private events, including weddings, are
often held on the beautiful grounds of this
historic Georgian estate.
Photo Credit: Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority