Clarence House
The Clarence House, which overlooks the Dockyard, is one of the finest examples of 19th century living in not only Antigua and Barbuda but the entire area. Clarence House, built-in 1804 for the Navy Commissioner, was intended to impress visiting Admirals, Captains, and royally appointed Governors while on duty.
The mansion was turned over to the Governor of the Leeward Islands as his country retreat after the Dockyard's demise as a naval post. Clarence House became a meeting place for visiting dignitaries and a respite for the Governor from the heat of St. John's by the 1860s. HRH Queen Elizabeth II, who is celebrating her Silver Jubilee, as well as significant dignitaries like Winston Churchill, have attended ceremonial receptions here. HRH Princess Margaret, on the other hand, spent the first night of her honeymoon at Clarence House. Unfortunately, her two-week getaway was cut short due to incessant paparazzi harassment, prompting the newlywed pair to flee to Barbuda on a yacht for the remainder of their vacation.
In the 1990s, the structure was severely damaged by a series of hurricanes, and in 2004 it was officially turned over to the National Park Service for restoration. Sir Peter Harrison, a sailor, won the Antigua Sailing Week in 2011. Sir Peter handsomely funded the restoration of Clarence House to commemorate his victory. In 2012, work on the project began with a stonemason apprenticeship program using traditional methods and solely local woodworkers. Clarence House, which has been meticulously renovated, now serves as a museum and a venue for weddings and other major events. Decorated in a classical style, undergoing the forging of nature and history, but still giving yourself something very ancient and long-lasting beauty. Wearing a yellow shirt that blends in with the blue of the earth and sky, the picture becomes incredibly beautiful and peaceful. That's why Clarence House is on the list of the most beautiful historical sites in Antigua and Barbuda.
Location: Antigua and Barbuda, nearby to Copper & Lumber Store Hotel Boutique, English Harbour, and Saint Helena.
