Plantation House & Jonathan
Meet Jonathan, the world's oldest tortoise, and explore a historic plantation house on the remote island of St. Helena.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Tortoises are most active
Plantation House & Jonathan
Best Time
Tortoises are most active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Meet Jonathan, the world's oldest tortoise, and explore a historic plantation house on the remote island of St. Helena.
"Debbie, our tour guide was fabulous! So friendly and funny. And the another lady who plays piano.."
📸 Photo with Jonathan
You can take photos with Jonathan! A small fee may apply to access the grounds for interaction. :camerawithflash:
☕ Afternoon Tea Surprise
Enjoy a delightful afternoon tea with coffee, tea, and scones. An unexpected treat during your visit! 🍵
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.8 · 26 reviews
Type
Historical Landmark
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Jonathan the Tortoise
Plantation House Grounds
Meet the world's oldest living land animal, a gentle giant over 190 years old. A truly unique and unforgettable encounter.
Plantation House Tour
Plantation House
Step back in time with a fascinating guided tour of this historic plantation house, filled with stories and artifacts.
Giant Tortoise Interaction
Plantation House Grounds
Beyond Jonathan, interact with other friendly giant tortoises like David, Emma, and Frederick. A delightful experience for all ages.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Meet Jonathan: The Ancient Tortoise
Explore Historic Plantation House
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Photo with Jonathan
You can take photos with Jonathan! A small fee may apply to access the grounds for interaction. :camerawithflash:
☕ Afternoon Tea Surprise
Enjoy a delightful afternoon tea with coffee, tea, and scones. An unexpected treat during your visit! 🍵
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Don't just see the house; wander the attractive grounds and enjoy the company of the other tortoises. 🚶
🗣️ Engaging Tour Guides
The tour guides are incredibly knowledgeable and funny, making the history come alive. Ask questions!
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photo with Jonathan
You can take photos with Jonathan! A small fee may apply to access the grounds for interaction. :camerawithflash:
☕ Afternoon Tea Surprise
Enjoy a delightful afternoon tea with coffee, tea, and scones. An unexpected treat during your visit! 🍵
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Don't just see the house; wander the attractive grounds and enjoy the company of the other tortoises. 🚶
🗣️ Engaging Tour Guides
The tour guides are incredibly knowledgeable and funny, making the history come alive. Ask questions!
🛍️ Souvenir Stall
A small stall outside offers mementos. Perfect for a small keepsake from your visit. 🎁
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Plantation House for its unique combination of historical significance and the unforgettable experience of meeting Jonathan, the world's oldest tortoise. The engaging guided tours and the unexpected delight of afternoon tea are frequently highlighted as positive aspects. While the focus is often on the tortoises, the well-maintained house and grounds add to the overall charm.
"The best tour in Santa Helena.
We had a great time with a big group in Plantation House. Well decorated and beautiful place to visit. Debbie, our tour guide was fabulous! So friendly and funny. And the another lady who plays piano..
They prepared coffee, tea and scones for us. So we met nice people in the tour and of course, we took a photo with Jonathan!"
Aymee Mariah B. Braglia
"I have too much to recommend about this place. I visited here twice in one week. There are two famous and much loved people here. Jonathan the tortoise who is super nice despite his age and eyesight. Then there is Debbie the house favourite of them all who will give you the most detailed tour you will ever experience in any st Helena attraction. This house is the most well kept historical building on St Helena. The grounds are also attractive, do not miss an opportunity to go here when you visit St Helena. I will shortly be posting content on my visit there. find me #asaintabroad for more."
Johnny Clingham
"The giant tortoises are amazing! They are so friendly and energetic! The tour is also great, giving in depth knowledge of the house. Great for anyone visiting or living on the island :) Pictured is David but there is also Johnathan, Emma and Frederick"
Juliette Angell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Plantation House is located on the island of St. Helena. Access to the island is typically via flights to St. Helena Airport. Once on the island, local transport or taxis can take you to Plantation House.
The airport is on St. Helena, and Plantation House is a well-known attraction on the island. Local transport options are available to reach it from the airport or your accommodation.
Options include taxis, car rentals, and guided tours. For reaching Plantation House, a taxi or a pre-booked tour is recommended for convenience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an admission fee, especially if you wish to access the grounds to interact with the tortoises. The fee is typically a few GBP.
Opening hours can vary, but it's generally open during daytime hours for tours and tortoise interaction. It's advisable to check locally for the most current times.
You can access the grounds to see the tortoises for a fee, but a guided tour is highly recommended to fully appreciate the history of the house.
While Jonathan is the main attraction, the fee generally covers access to the grounds where all the giant tortoises reside, including Jonathan.
Information on group discounts is not widely available online, but it's worth inquiring directly with Plantation House if you are planning a large group visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The best way is to visit during the day when he is most active. You can interact with him and take photos on the grounds of Plantation House.
While you can get close and take photos, it's important to be respectful of his age and condition. Guides will advise on appropriate interaction.
The guided tour is highly praised for its in-depth historical information and engaging storytelling by knowledgeable guides.
Yes, besides Jonathan, you can meet other friendly giant tortoises like David, Emma, and Frederick on the grounds.
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the grounds and the house. Dress for the local climate. :athletic_shoe:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, visitors can enjoy an afternoon tea with coffee, tea, and scones, which is often included or offered as a delightful surprise during the visit.
Dining options on St. Helena are limited but available. It's best to check local recommendations for restaurants near Plantation House or in the main town.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally polite to consume your own food and drinks away from the main historical areas. The afternoon tea is a recommended experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed on the grounds for personal use, especially with the tortoises. Check for any specific restrictions inside the house.
The grounds with the tortoises, especially Jonathan, offer iconic photo opportunities. The historic architecture of the house itself is also picturesque.
For professional shoots or commercial use, you would likely need to seek permission in advance.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit