Published 25 February 2026
Gorey is one of Jersey’s most iconic spots, sitting on the eastern flank of the island. It unfolds in two distinct parts: a charming fishing port where pastel-hued cottages line the harbour, alfresco restaurants buzz with conversation and the dramatic silhouette of Mont Orgueil Castle (also known as Gorey Castle) watches from above; and, just a short stroll away, a quaint historic village dotted with friendly neighbourhood cafés, pretty fishermen’s cottages and a corner shop that feels as though it’s been frozen in time.
Tuck into a hearty brunch, settle in like a local with a long, lazy lunch in the sun, browse for artisan foodie finds or why not soak up some of Jersey’s history up close with a castle tour? With its laid-back pace and French flair, it’s easy to slip into the Gorey state of mind and even easier to fall in love with it.
Eat and drink
Gorey is a hub of food heritage. From the steep, sunlit fields overlooking Mont Orgueil castle where the island’s first Jersey Royal Potatoes were grown to the oyster beds revealed by the falling tide along the Royal Bay of Grouville, and the fisherman swapping stories over a pint of something local at The Dolphin after bringing in the day’s catch, food has shaped life here for centuries.
Take the chance to explore Gorey’s many restaurants, pubs and cafés. Pick up a bacon butty from a beachside kiosk, settle in around the harbour for freshly landed fish and seafood where “catch of the day” truly means just that (the seafood at Sumas is exceptional, with castle views to match), or head into the welcoming village, where the hospitality is as warm as the freshly baked bread and handmade pasta.
In Gorey, you’ll never be short of somewhere memorable to eat or drink.
The Moorings Restaurant
The Moorings
Welcoming guests since 1851, The Moorings is a local institution at the heart of the most recognisable location in Jersey, Gorey Pier. Following fresh investment in 2021, the restaurant is a firm favourite amongst locals and visitors.
Pizza Quarter – Gorey
DFDS
Pizza Quarter was globally inspired and home-grown in Jersey. We make our own dough fresh on a daily basis and proof it using the "Pizza Quarter 24-hour method" where it develops the dough's flavour and texture before we bake your perfect pizza.
Dolphin Hotel
DFDS
The small family run Dolphin Hotel is located on the east side of Jersey in St. Martins, overlooking the harbour and Grouville Bay. Open all year round, the friendly hotel offers en suite bedrooms, many with sea views, and several premier bedrooms with panoramic views across the harbour.
Seahorse Coffee Co. Limited
Seahorse Coffee Co. Limited
A small, funky, coffee shop at the bottom of the hill in Gorey Harbour. Serving great coffee & cake plus gifts by local artists.
Beach Cafe Jersey (The Hungry Whale)
Beach Cafe Jersey (The Hungry Whale)
We are proud to be the place to stop by and stay. The perfect blend of a chill dog-friendly atmosphere, delicious coffee, and breath taking views of the ocean. Taking over The Hungry Whale in 2022 became a mission in offering good quality coffee, fresh sourdough and healthier menu options for dog walkers, locals and families.
Seascale Restaurant
DFDS
Our restaurant is small but very friendly and welcoming and has been refurbished with a modern touch to it. We serve breakfast, lunch and dinner together with Sunday lunch and set menus. A snack menu is also available. We are located at Gorey Pier with an excellent regular bus route taking you to the main station in St. Helier.
Sumas Restaurant
Sumas Restaurant
A boutique restaurant located on the east of the island overlooking Mont Orgueil Castle and the picturesque harbour of Gorey. Casual fine dining with seasonally changing menus, plenty of local shellfish and seafood, Fruits de mer platters on offer, as well as meat and vegetarian options.
Rhona’s at The Beach
Rhona’s at the Beach
We are a small but busy local beach cafe with a big charitable heart. Established in 2005 we love nothing better than to serve our famous Crab Sandwiches with local Jersey Dairy Ice Cream and do what we can to raise money for local charities along the way. We are perfectly situated near a beautiful beach that overlooks Mont Orgueil Castle.
The Bass & Lobster
DFDS
We pride ourselves on two things; local food and great service. Our chef has local hidden treasures ready for your latest dining experience.
Insider tip
Though Gorey sits on Jersey’s east coast, the harbour itself faces west – making it the perfect place to catch the last of the evening sun and linger over dinner or drinks.
Bag a terrace table at The Moorings (arrive early, as terrace tables aren’t reservable) and take advantage of their oyster happy hour from 17:00–18:00. Or keep things casual with a pizza from Maddie’s or fish and chips from Entwhistles in the village, then wander down to the pier to find a scenic spot to tuck in.
It’s an effortlessly simple, and wonderfully atmospheric, way to while away a summer’s evening.
Mont Orgueil Castle
Shop
Both Gorey Village and Gorey Harbour are peppered with charming spots for a bit of retail therapy.
In the village, don’t miss The Rocque Paper Co, a boutique specialising in handmade paper and personalised gifts. Be sure to stop by Rosedale Stores too – a delightful slice of local life where Gorey residents pick up essentials and catch up on the day’s happenings. Right next door, The Kitchen and Veranda are perfect spots for a coffee, homemade cake or a delicious breakfast.
Just a short stroll toward the harbour, you’ll find Beautiful Things, an independent fashion and lifestyle boutique. Pop in, say hello to Kathryn and her team, and browse their gorgeous range of goodies.
Around Gorey Pier, there’s plenty to explore: browse for keepsakes at the Gorey branch of Jersey Pearl (their main shop is along St. Ouen’s Bay), discover hand-crafted ceramics by local artist Jane James, or grab a classic Jersey jumper from The Old Sail Loft, a stylish store carrying top British and European brands. For the ladies, Neptune is worth a stop too, stocking an eclectic range of womenswear. Scattered throughout the area are a handful of quirky antique shops – open sporadically, but well worth a visit if you’re lucky enough to stumble upon them.
Gorey offers a perfect mix of unique gifts, local craftsmanship, and hidden treasures for every shopper.
Insider tip
For a taste of Jersey’s renowned dairy, crafted from the island’s famous Jersey cows, stop by the Stuart Spiral Ice Cream Van. You’ll find it in the public car park by The Royal Bay of Grouville – also known as Long Beach. Consistently rated among the best soft-serve on the island, grab a cone and enjoy it as you stroll along the golden sands, soaking up the stunning views of Mont Orgueil Castle.
Discover
Tucked away on the east coast of Jersey and just 14 miles from the French mainland, Gorey is more than just its pretty village and harbour, it is a place stepped in centuries of history, intrigue and resilience. Once the frontline of defence between the British Isles and France, Gorey has played a pivotal role in shaping the island’s identity and protecting its shores from invasion.
At the heart of this story stands the commanding Mont Orgueil Castle (Gorey Castle), an iconic fortress that has watched over the harbour since the 13th century. Climb its ancient towers, wander through winding staircases and imagine the life of soldiers stationed here, keeping a constant watch for threats from across the Channel.
Gorey’s past does not stop with medieval battlements. The village also bore witness to the darkest days of the 20th century during the German Occupation of Jersey in the Second World War. Its streets and coastline hold powerful reminders of a community that endured hardship with quiet strength and dignity.
If you’re keen to dive deeper into Gorey’s fascinating past, tune into Villages by the sea on BBC iPlayer, where archaeologist Ben Robinson uncovers the layers of history that make this small coastal village such an important, and often overlooked, part of Britain’s military story. From the castle’s medieval roots to the haunting echoes of wartime occupation, Gorey is a place where history feels very much alive.
Insider tip
Looking for a swim spot in Gorey? There are a few hidden gems for those in the know.
Slip around the back of the pier and you’ll discover a small slipway, perfect for diving into the crystal-clear waters of The Royal Bay of Grouville, right below Mont Orgueil Castle. Alternatively, head to the castle green and follow a narrow path down to a secluded pebbly bay, where on a clear day you can gaze all the way across to France.
History & heritage holidays
Inspired by Gorey’s rich past? Step deeper into our history and culture with heritage sites, fascinating museums and centuries-old landscapes that bring the island’s past to life. Start planning your history-filled holiday and uncover the layers of Jersey’s unique story.
