
Government House British Virgin Islands
Discover the history of the British Virgin Islands at the former Governor's residence, now a museum with stunning harbour views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Avoid weekend closures

Government House British Virgin Islands
Best Time
Avoid weekend closures
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the history of the British Virgin Islands at the former Governor's residence, now a museum with stunning harbour views.
"A neat little museum with lots of royal family memorabilia and great views of the harbour."

🎯 Check Tour Days
Tours are usually Mon-Fri. Confirm hours before you go! :calendar:
🚶 Easy Walk from Port
A pleasant 15-20 min walk from cruise terminal. :athletic_shoe:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Government House
Road Town, Tortola
Explore the former residence of governors, now a museum filled with royal memorabilia and island history.

Harbour Views
Museum Veranda
Enjoy a relaxing sea breeze and picturesque views of the harbour from the museum's porch.

Royal Memorabilia
Museum Exhibits
Discover a fascinating collection of items related to the British royal family.

Lush Garden Area
Museum Grounds
Stroll through a lovely garden area adjacent to the museum.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Opening Days
Easy Walk from Port
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Tour Days
Tours are usually Mon-Fri. Confirm hours before you go! :calendar:
🚶 Easy Walk from Port
A pleasant 15-20 min walk from cruise terminal. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Affordable Admission
Entry is only $5, offering great value for history buffs. :moneybag:
☕ Relaxing Views
Enjoy the harbour views and sea breeze from the veranda. :ocean:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Tour Days
Tours are usually Mon-Fri. Confirm hours before you go! :calendar:
🚶 Easy Walk from Port
A pleasant 15-20 min walk from cruise terminal. :athletic_shoe:
💰 Affordable Admission
Entry is only $5, offering great value for history buffs. :moneybag:
☕ Relaxing Views
Enjoy the harbour views and sea breeze from the veranda. :ocean:
🏛️ Guided Tours Available
Friendly staff offer guided tours, enriching your visit. :guide_dog:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Government House a relaxing and historically rich experience, especially appreciating the affordable admission and beautiful harbour views. While some note the potential for traffic exhaust on the walk from the port, the friendly staff and engaging exhibits make it a worthwhile stop for many, particularly cruise ship passengers.
"It was relaxing to visit. Not crowded, nice view of the sea from the porch/seats, nice sea breeze...the walk from the cruise terminal is 15 minutes, but unfortunately we experienced traffic exhaust."
Roger Yu
"A 20 minute walk from the cruise port. Beautiful building and gardens. Lots of history."
Fred Humphrey
"Great little museum in the old Governor House. Only $5. 5 minutes walk from the cruise ship port. Friendly staff. Toilet available. Great views of the harbour from the veranda."
Duncan mountford
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Government House Museum is an easy 15-20 minute walk from the Tortola cruise terminal. Follow the signs towards Road Town. While the walk is generally pleasant, some visitors have noted traffic exhaust along the route.
Information on dedicated parking at Government House is limited, but given its proximity to Road Town, street parking or nearby public lots may be available. Walking from the cruise port is the most recommended method.
Taxis are readily available at the cruise port and can take you directly to Government House. It's a very short ride, making it a convenient option if you prefer not to walk.
Local buses operate in Road Town, and you can likely catch one that passes near Government House. However, given the short walking distance from the port, it's often more straightforward to walk or take a taxi.
The museum is located across the street from a park and has a veranda. While specific accessibility details are scarce, the ground floor exhibits and garden areas are likely accessible. It's advisable to contact them directly for detailed information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Government House Museum is typically open for tours Monday through Friday. It's crucial to verify the exact hours before your visit, as it may be closed on weekends and public holidays.
Admission to the museum is currently $5 per person. This affordable price makes it an accessible historical attraction for most visitors.
Advance booking is generally not required for individual visitors. However, for larger groups or specific tour requests, it might be beneficial to inquire in advance.
The museum offers guided tours led by friendly staff who can share insights into the island's history. It's worth asking about any special events or themed tours that might be happening during your visit.
Photography policies can vary. It's best to check with the staff upon arrival regarding any restrictions on taking photos inside the museum exhibits.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You can explore the historic building, which served as the governor's residence, and view exhibits of royal memorabilia and local history. The veranda offers great harbour views, and there's a lovely garden area to wander through.
Information about a dedicated gift shop is not widely available. However, you might find small souvenirs or local crafts available for purchase at the museum.
Yes, restrooms are available for visitors at the museum.
Engaging with the friendly staff for a guided tour is highly recommended. They can provide context and stories that bring the history of the island and the house to life.
A visit to Government House typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, allowing time to explore the museum, enjoy the views, and walk through the gardens.
🎫 🌳 Gardens & Views
Yes, the gardens offer a pleasant and relaxing space to explore. They provide a nice contrast to the historical exhibits inside the museum.
From the veranda and grounds, you can enjoy beautiful panoramic views of the harbour and the surrounding sea. It's a great spot for photos.
While there isn't specific mention of picnic facilities, the garden area might be a suitable spot for a quiet snack. However, it's best to confirm if outside food is permitted.
The gardens are generally well-maintained, showcasing the tropical flora of the British Virgin Islands. Their beauty can be enjoyed throughout the year.
Typically, access to the gardens is associated with a museum visit. It's advisable to check if the gardens can be accessed independently, though it's unlikely.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🚢 Cruise Ship Passengers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into BVI History
Today, it functions as a museum, showcasing a collection of royal memorabilia and artifacts that tell the story of the islands' colonial era. Visitors can learn about the administrative history and the lives of the governors who resided there. The museum's location also provides stunning views of the harbour, making it a picturesque stop for history enthusiasts and casual tourists alike.
While the stamp collection has been moved for safekeeping, the remaining exhibits offer a rich narrative. The friendly staff are often eager to share their knowledge, providing guided tours that enhance the visitor experience. It's a relatively small museum, making it an ideal stop for those with limited time, especially cruise ship passengers looking for a nearby cultural excursion.
Navigating Your Visit: Practicalities
Opening hours are a key consideration; tours are typically offered Monday through Friday. It's essential to confirm these hours before your visit, as weekend closures can occur. The admission fee is a modest $5, offering excellent value for the historical insights and scenic views provided.
Beyond the museum exhibits, take time to appreciate the lovely garden area and the panoramic views of the harbour from the veranda. These elements add to the relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere of the visit. Restrooms are available on-site for visitor convenience.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit