THE HISTORY OF REDCLIFFE QUAY
Overlooking the harbour of St. John’s, Historic Redcliffe Quay is one of the oldest parts of the town, dating back as far as the 17th & 18th centuries. In those days it was a busy waterfront docking area, widely regarded as the business and trading centre of the Caribbean. It was the main trading place for Slaves, Rum, Sugar and Coffee between Antigua, Europe and Africa.
Today it is a peaceful and shady oasis overlooking the sea and the ideal place to rest from the heat and activity of St. John’s. You can watch the yachts and boats coming and going into the harbour or stand in awe of the huge cruise ships that visit the island frequently in the season.
BOUTIQUES
It is a delight to explore the various courtyards and boardwalks to discover many unique & beautiful boutiques selling gifts, pottery, paintings, and other locally made gifts, as well as jewellery, clothes, shoes and accessories. Some of the boutiques you must not miss are:
- SILVER CHELLES is a new jewellery boutique right in the heart of Historic Redcliffe Quay, St. John's. It has beautiful and unique Silver & Seashell Jewellery, Gifts and much more.
- THE GOLDSMITTY is a unique jewellery shop situated in historic Redcliffe Quay in the heart of St. John's. Their hand made jewellery has rare and exotic gemstones set in exquisite creations of 14 and 18 karat gold and is designed by the owner, Hans Smit, who is World renowned for his expertise.
- EXOTIC ANTIGUA was voted #1 clothing & accessories shop in the Caribbean with the most affordable prices! It is located on the waterfront between the two cruise ship docks in St. John's.
RESTAURANTS/CAFES/BARS
Within the courtyards, are beautifully kept tropical gardens and set amidst the shade of palm trees are numerous cafés and restaurants, including:
- FRED'S BELGIAN WAFFLES & ICE CREAM serves delicious homemade ice cream, sorbets as well as teas, coffees & soft drinks.
- BIG BANANA is situated at their new downtown home where family, friends and visitors hang out together. Big Banana is casual and relaxed, and you can dine inside or on one of their breezy patios and enjoy a delicious diverse menu with the best pizza in the Caribbean. They also offer a great take-out service with island wide delivery.
- C & C WINE BAR is the place for Wine Lovers, a casual but sophisticated Wine Bar and is the home for exciting wines from South Africa. It's situated in vibrant Redcliffe Quay and is a great place to enjoy the ambience of St. John's
- HEAVENLY JAVA 2 GO is a lovely coffee shop situated on Redcliffe Quay in the heart of St. John's Antigua. They have a large range of Italian speciality coffees, many types of tea & a great selection of snacks and ice creams. They also serve smoothies plus alcoholic beverages.
- CAFE NAPOLEON gives customers superb food and fast & friendly service in their Al fresco dining ambiance in the heart of bustling St. John's. The cuisine varies from French Creole to European with a twist.
Historic Redcliffe Quay is a definite oasis of calm and beauty. Come and shop, drink, eat, relax and enjoy this beautiful, historic area in our paradise island.