If he was anywhere else in the world the men in white coats would lock him up and throw away the key. But this is Bermuda, and each weekday morning from 05:00 to 10:00, retired bus driver Johnny Barnes stands in the middle of Crow Lane roundabout and says a cheery ‘Good Morning!’ to Bermuda’s commuters.
Rain or shine he’s always there with his radio, backpack and straw hat; providing a glimmer of hope that work won’t be as bad as it normally is.
In recognition of this, many Bermudians clubbed together and commissioned local sculptor Desmond Fountain to create a bronze statue of Johnny that now stands near the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute.
Johnny Barnes is quite simply the most popular and friendliest man in Bermuda. He loves to chat with visitors and pose for photographs. Go visit him and feel the love.
Nearby Attractions
Tourist attractions and things to do near Johnny Barnes include:
- Waterville (0.1 miles) - National Trust headquarters
- Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute (0.2 miles) - The BUEI's purpose is to enhance our understanding of the mysteries of the ocean
- Arboretum (0.3 miles) - Park with collection of trees and shrubs from around the world
- Masterworks Museum of Bermuda Art (0.4 miles) - Art gallery of the Masterworks Foundation
- Camden (0.4 miles) - Official residence of Bermuda's Premier
- Fort Hamilton (0.5 miles) - Offers spectacular views of Hamilton
- Bermuda Botanical Gardens (0.5 miles) - 36 acres of trees, shrubs and flowers
- Paget Marsh Nature Reserve (0.6 miles) - Nature reserve
- Cenotaph (0.7 miles) - War memorial
- Cabinet Building (0.7 miles) - Elegant 19th century building
- Sessions House (0.7 miles) - Bermuda's parliament
- Bermuda Cathedral (0.8 miles) - Offers great views of Hamilton
- Victoria Park (0.9 miles) - Hamilton park
- Bermuda National Gallery (0.9 miles) - Home of the national art collection
- City Hall and Arts Centre (0.9 miles) - Impressive building housing the offices of the Corporation of Hamilton
- Bermuda Society of Arts Gallery (0.9 miles) - Art gallery at City Hall
- Perot Post Office (1.0 miles) - The best place in Bermuda to send postcards
- Bermuda Historical Society Museum (1.0 miles) - Museum illustrating Bermuda's history
Nearby Restaurants
Restaurants and places to eat and drink near Johnny Barnes include:
- Harbourfront Restaurant (0.2 miles) - Restaurant at the Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute. Offers a sushi and tempura bar. Stunning views of Hamilton Harbour.
- Rosa's (0.6 miles) - Established Tex-Mex restaurant in Hamilton. Offers burgers, burritos, quesadillas, tacos, fajitas, steaks etc. Located above Docksider.
- Docksider (0.6 miles) - Pub and restaurant at the eastern end of Front Street. Menu offers pub grub, burgers, sandwiches, and pizza. Popular watering hole. Live sports, DJs etc. Reasonably close to Fort Hamilton.
- Ice Queen (0.7 miles) - Takeaway in Paget Parish. Offers burgers, chicken wings and nuggets, fries etc. Open late.
- Bolero Brasserie (0.7 miles) - Upscale brasserie on Hamilton’s main street. Chef owned. Offers a small balcony with view of Front Street and Hamilton Harbour.
- The Dog House (0.8 miles) - Popular bar on Front Street. Live music and Premier League/NFL games. Outdoor terrace.
- Rock Island Coffee (0.8 miles) - Coffeeshop in Hamilton known for its delicious baked goods. Walls display works by local artists.
- House of India (0.8 miles) - Indian restaurant at the northern end of Hamilton. Specialises in Tandoor-cooked dishes. Takeaway service available.
- Ruby Murrys (0.8 miles) - Indian restaurant just off Front Street. Reasonable prices.
- The Astwood Arms (0.8 miles) - British style pub on Hamilton’s main street. Friendly staff. Live music and NFL/Premier League games.
- Flanagan's (0.8 miles) - Irish pub located in a prime spot on Front Street in Hamilton. Veranda offers excellent views of Hamilton Harbour. Incorporates a separate sports bar.
- Barracuda Grill (0.8 miles) - Seafood restaurant in Hamilton, just off Front Street. Specialises in seafood but also offers meat options. Located above the Hog Penny pub.
- Hog Penny (0.9 miles) - British-style pub just off Front Street. Cosy wooden interior. Reputed to be the inspiration for the Cheers pub in Boston. Live music in the evenings.
- Devil's Isle (0.9 miles) - Busy cafe and bar in Hamilton. Hip and casual.
- The Terrace on Front Street (0.9 miles) - Restaurant on Front Street. Outdoor terrace has fantastic views of Front Street and Hamilton Harbour. Formerly Red Steakhouse.
- The Pickled Onion (0.9 miles) - Bar and restaurant on Front Street, Hamilton. Veranda offers excellent view of Hamilton Harbour. Live music and DJs.
- Angelo's Bistro (0.9 miles) - Italian cafe in the Walker Arcade in Hamilton. Indoor or atrium seating. Italian food with a local twist.
- La Trattoria (0.9 miles) - Family-friendly Italian restaurant in the centre of Hamilton. Known for its pizzas; cooked in a wood-burning brick oven.
- Art Mel's Spicy Dicy (0.9 miles) - Takeaway renowned for its fish sandwiches. Located a fair distance from the centre of Hamilton.
Nearby Transport Links
Transport links near Johnny Barnes include:
- Lower Ferry (0.7 miles) - Ferry stop on the Pink Route.
- Central Bus Terminal (0.9 miles) - Bus station in Hamilton.
- Hamilton Ferry Terminal (1.0 miles) - The island's main ferry terminal.
Map
Map showing location of Johnny Barnes.
Click here for a detailed map showing all points of interest.
Details
Johnny Barnes
Address
Crow Lane
Paget Parish
Bermuda
Editor says
A fantastic documentary film about Johnny by Rosanne Ma can be seen here.
Editor says
Johnny Barnes turns 91 today. Happy birthday from Bermuda 4u.
Gerri Crockwell-Sequeros says
Sadly – our Johnny has left us. He manned his post until December 2015, and passed away July 9, 2016 at the age of 93. He will be missed terribly. I am trying to organise a petition to have Johnny’s statue moved from the entrance to Fidelity, to the spot where he greeted the world every week-day morning for so many years. Hopefully any future people who were not fortunate enough to have met, or seem Johnny, will ask about the statue and be told is wonderful story about how much he loved us all.
whitefeather says
I just watched the documentary about Johnny Barnes on the Spiritual Cinema monthly dvd. What a treat to witness the love that Johnny pours out to everyone there. And that they love him and would miss him if he were not there to say hi I love you and to start there day off with a smile. I love you Johnny Barnes and am so happy you are there.
albert says
When I first visited Bermuda I saw many sights, but Johnny was the best and he stays in my heart. God bless him.
Teigh says
G’day Johnny……Have just seen the documentary….Thank you for what you do and please know your love has reached Australia. I love you mate. Bright blessings to you dear man 🙂
Linda C. says
I love Johnny, Mr. Happy Man. On an island of unbelievable beauty, his happy soul and demeanor outshines everything else. Greetings from New Jersey!
Linda C. says
I love Johnnie, Mr. Happy Man.
Kim says
I just watched the story of Johnny Barnes through a movie short from Spiritual Cinema Circle. I am grateful that now so many more people will learn of this man and his wonderful message!
richard nott and sue labordus says
Simple grace is how I would describe Johnny Barnes with his amazing constancy that binds societies together. I have been to Bermuda a few times and seen him from inside the car. However this time en route to the airport we stopped and he greeted us like long lost family, gave us a hug, held hands and made a short prayer to guide us home again. Whilst this was going on cars were tooting and waving. It reminds me of that great exhortation from St Paul to do good works to our fellow man whilst we have time. Johnny’s message is a simple one that makes people feel one with him, brighten the day and his constancy reminds us that some things do not change. Even when he is gone his statute will be there to remind us of his generous spirit.
Douglas Marr says
My Wife and I have just returned from holiday in Bermuda. On our last day, thunder and lightning struck but it didn’t stop Johnny Barnes. He was there at the roundabout, what a man.
We waited for him to come off the roundabout at exactly 10am and shook the great man’s hand.
Manny & Jean Aspinall says
In February 2010 we visited our daughter and her husband who both work in Bermuda. Each morning we would walk with Elizabeth to work and pass the famous Johnny Barnes on the roundabout. His cheery face and friendly nature really does make your day. Well done Johnny B.
Jennifer Leach says
My husband & I met Johnny last September (2009). We are going back again this coming May and we can’t wait to meet him again. We need a few more Johnny Barnes in the world. Did he meet the Queen when she visited?
Jean says
We visited Bermuda annually for business from 1993 through 2001 and were always cheered to see Johnny. We bought two pictures from Cig (a budding artist) who worked as a waitress at the Robin Hood – one is an English phone booth, the other is Johnny. They hang in our office. I "Google" Johnny regularly to be sure that he is still alive and well.
Shaun Congos says
I met this old soul while in Bermuda working on a cruise ship. Every week we would pull in at around 6 am and I would grab a coffee, get off the ship and walk to Mr. Barnes. Since the moment I saw him, I thought he was an angel of sorts and a glimmer of what this world could have been. He is a true Saint. I feel so blessed to have met him. I can safely say, a piece of him rubbed onto me when I left for the last time. GOD BLESS YOU JOHNNY! And thank you for you kindness and warmth.
Helene says
Met Johnny as a client and he returned the next day with gifts. However, he was the gift! Truly a remarkable, loving human being. As it has been said before we need more of him!
Susy Knight says
It’s been a few years since I visited Bermuda and what I remember and cherish most about the Island is Johnny and his true love for giving others a little extra happiness. His smile is truly addictive.
Rob Stewart says
My family and I met Johnny 4 years ago whilst visiting my sister-in-law in Bermuda. I had heard about Johnny and just had to meet him. We caught up with him just as he was packing his things together to go home. He is such a lovely friendly man who took time to chat with us. Of course we brought a camera and had pictures taken with him. Before we left him he gave us a little gift. A truly wonderful man. It has been said before, but I’ll say it again. If we had a Johnny Barnes on every street corner this world would be a better place. God Bless you Johnny!!!
Tracey says
I have lived in Bermuda for over six years and have seen Johnny on many occasions but have never stopped to talk to him. I stopped with my aunt today 31st October 2008 and he chatted to us and we took lots of photo’s with him and his statue, he then prayed for us and my aunt was so touched by this as she had lost her mum just one week before she flew to Bermuda. She had visited the island before with her mother on a cruise ship and she had had a wonderful trip. I’m sure Johnny knew that my aunt needed a prayer today! He is a truly wonderful man and every roundabout should have one! God Bless you Johnny!
m.louise says
We’ve been vacationing in Bermuda since 1976 and have seen many changes, some good, some not. However, one thing that remains the same since my first visit to this lovely island: the presence of the all smiling, ever waving Mr. Barnes. We had the pleasure of meeting this special man only once, but always looked forward to seeing him every morning as we make our way to where our mopeds take us. May he always be blessed. He is truly a good will ambassador for Bermuda! God bless him always!
Allegra says
Johnny B was there every day whether it was rainy or not. When we moved to France I always longed to see his loving smile. I can’t wait to see him this summer!
alisdair mcgillivray says
The world could use a Jonny Barnes on every street corner.
Diane Poyant says
My husband and I visited Bermuda over 20 years ago. I never forgot the gentleman standing by the roundabout as we drove by. He tipped his hat and said "Good Morning, Love." And to this day I recall that glorious welcome to your beautiful island. He’s truly a treasure.
Sharanya says
I have been to Bermuda regarding my work and used to see Johnny every day on my way to office and wondered why he was waving at everyone. Just today my cab driver told me his story and I was so moved. As soon as I reached the office I searched his name on internet and found this site. It’s so amazing that just one little thought ‘to cheer people every morning and give them hope that it
Sheila says
My husband and I were in a rental bike accident on our 25th anniversary in Bermuda August 2003. Johnny was a strength to us every morning at 7:45 AM.
I took a taxi to the hospital for 8 days. I would request for the driver to go by the "happy man" so I could get the joy – strength to walk into the hospital and be that light to my husband as he suffered with a broken pelvis. I wished we could have met Johnny. Maybe someday we will.
He is an angel of light! We are going to celebrate 30 years in 2008. We are doing fine!
Wambui says
Johnny’s story is a really remarkable one and greatly moving. I visited Bermuda for a few days in September but did not know about him. As a result I never got up early enough to experience his morning blessings. I feel really bereft for not having done so. I will be back next year to wave back at him.
Jerry says
I am one of the fortunate ones. I ventured off of the cruise ship at 4am and walked to the roundabout to meet Johnny Barnes. To my surprise he was already there at 4:20am greeting the few drivers already on their way to work. Each person smiling and waving back as he called each of them by name!! According to Johnny, he is up having breakfast at 2am and is at his post by 3:40am every day. Why? Because he wants everyone to love each other. He is a true joy to speak with. He happily posed for a few pictures, sold me a few postcards, and prayed for me and my family. All this at 4:30 in the morning!!! If you get the chance, stop by and meet Johnny Barnes. You will know instantly why he is a Bermuda icon.
KAREN O. says
YIKES!!!
Cont …. I just realized my sister Linda and I met Johnny Barns in 1996 not 2002 Sorry for the mistake!!!
Johnny you are my true live angel …
Thanks for showing me and the world what true love of another looks like!!!
KAREN O. says
My sister (Linda) and I took a cruise to Bermuda in 2002. We fell in love with the painting of him (in a gallery) … then the gallery owner asked us if we would like to meet him!!! We couldn’t believe our good fortune …she got a hold of him on the phone and he was so very kind to meet both of us in Hamilton. He showed us around to the many sites (while everyone was calling out to say hello to him) and he just smiled and said thank you. But – There was a situation that could have turned into something crummy (there was a man thinking he was funny while saying snide comments to us as we walked the pretty pink beach – but because Johnny is so full of true love and compassion (while verbally telling the man that God loves him and that he loves him also) the situation turned into something beautiful next thing we knew Johnny suggested we pray for healing and as we all stood and held hands to say a few prayers – we could feel God’s loving embrace. I have a large poster of Johnny up at home as well as in my art room at the public school I teach at … Whenever I want to remember that Angels live on this earth … I just look at Johnny’s smile and all is right with the world for at least a moment,
My sister Linda and I consider him an angel and feel so blessed to have met him and to have been able to spend some time with him.
Gog Bless You Johnny … I hope all is well with you and your family.
Love, Karen
Megan says
My parents lived in Bermuda for years and when we went back we saw he statue and thought the worst. But we went into Hamilton the next day and HE WAS THERE. It made my day!
Editor says
Seb. That’s nothing. My wife insists I wear the backpack too.
Seb Mole says
My girlfriend went to Bermuda and fell in love with him and now asks me to dress up in a straw hat and wear a santa-clause type beard!
Adam says
My mom, dad, and little sister just travelled to Bermuda for a week and saw Johnny our last day there. When we told him it was our last day and we were flying out that afternoon. he got us on his corner and prayed for us a safe trip home. He is a wonderful person and I hope i can travel back to Bermuda to see him again.
Loving Daughter says
Mom and Dad traveled to Bermuda 30 times and each time they always came home and spoke of Johnny B. It’s nice for him to keep up with his traditions. God bless.
Laura says
I used to live in bermuda and my parents gave Johnny a lift, we went back to his house and looked around his garden. Whenever I feel bad now that I’m back in England, I just think of what an inspiration Johnny is.
Lucy says
I’ve been to Bermuda three times and saw Johnny each time – really cheered me up! I couldn’t be that jolly every day lol.