Step Back in time and experience the history and heritage that blossoms at Pedro St. James!

Known by locals as 'Pedro Castle', this Great House is the oldest surviving stone structure in the Cayman Islands. It is also the "birthplace of democracy", and home to Cayman's many cultural and historic tales. Built using slave labour in 1780 by a wealthy Englishman, this home earned its name as a castle due to its sweeping mahogany verandas, sturdy stone walls and slate roof. At a time when most people lived in small thatch houses, and Cayman's population was just 500 people, this spectacularly built 3-storey home certainly was 'Cayman's Castle'.

A visit to Pedro St. James is always time well spent. Explore the Great House and 18^th Century artefacts. Absorb the beauty of the panoramic sea views, and 7 landscaped acres. Enjoy a 3-D multi-sensory movie that will transport you back in time, and take a guided tour by a local, for a truly authentic experience.

You can also do a local rum tasting at the Thatch & Barrel Restaurant and Bar located on site, and sample the unique blends of locally made spirits, including the exclusive 1780 Rum inspired by the Pedro St. James, named in memory of the year in which the Great House was built.

Since its construction more than two centuries ago, Pedro St. James has been put to a variety of uses, including a cotton plantation, courthouse, jail, Government Assembly and restaurant, before the Cayman Islands Government finally purchased the property in 1996, and restored it to its 18^th Century grandeur. Surviving hurricanes, fires, vandalism, and rumours of being both jinxed and haunted, it stands today, in its restored state, as a dynamic piece of Caymanian heritage.

Perhaps best known as the "Birthplace of Democracy in the Cayman Islands", Pedro St. James was the venue for a meeting on December 5, 1831 where the decision was made to form the first elected parliament. Later, on May 3, 1835, Robert Thompson, sent from the Governor of Jamaica, held court at Pedro St. James to issue the proclamation ending slavery in the British Empire.

This site has been at the centre of pirate raids, tragedy, triumph, and political reformation. Let its history and heritage inspire you on your visit to Pedro St. James.

Pedro St. James also provides a stunning location for weddings, events, and photo opportunities, owing to its expansive grounds, breath-taking backdrops, and rich history.

Website: http://pedrostjames.ky/

Operating Hours
Daily from 9:00AM - 5:30PM | Last admission at 4:30PM
(Closed on Good Friday & Christmas Day)
Phone: 1-345- 947-9462 info@pedrostjames.ky 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pedrostjames   
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pedro_st.james

 

NOTE: Guided tours are available daily, every hour, from 9am - 4pm.

            Rum Tastings Tours available Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, 12pm and 3pm.