From spell-binding castles to fabulous forts and rugged ruins, you’ll find endless possibilities for fascinating days out and overnight stays steeped in history on this treasure trove of an island. Let your imagination run wild as you uncover the stories of Jersey’s castles – tales fit to beguile children and grown-ups alike. Watch history come alive, dress up, make believe and get a taste of Jersey life way back when!
Or why not get away from it all and stay out at sea in an old coastal tower cut off by the tide – where ‘do not disturb’ is taken literally!
Jersey’s castles
Grosnez Castle
Get off the beaten track in St. Ouen and explore the atmospheric ruins of Grosnez Castle and the rugged landscape that surrounds it. Imagine what this clifftop fortress, on the exposed north west corner of the island, would have looked like back in the 14th century? Take a peek through its surviving archway, a picturesque gateway to a stunning sea view. Blow away the cobwebs on a windy day and watch the full force of nature as the waves crash against the rocks below. On a clear and calm day, why not take a picnic? Head down the steps to the weather station and take in the breathtaking, panoramic views of Guernsey and Sark – or stay a while longer and enjoy an incredible sunset.
Mont Orgueil Castle
If history is your thing, Mont Orgueil is a must-visit. Towering over Gorey, this medieval fortress is packed with secrets. Dress up as a knight or princess, weave through hidden passageways and uncover eerie curiosities like the ‘Dance of Death’ and ‘Witches in Hell.’ Climb to the rooftop ramparts for breathtaking sea views stretching to France. And for even more stories, join a free guided tour and let the past come alive.
Elizabeth Castle
At low tide, stroll across the causeway or hop on the castle ferry to Elizabeth Castle, a fortress rising from the rocky islet of St. Aubin’s Bay. Climb the battlements, uncover secret passageways and take in breathtaking views from the Hermitage. Meet the castle’s characters as you step into the past with the 1781 Militia and the Master Gunner’s battalion, as he prepares to fire the cannon. From hidden bunkers to Georgian displays, every corner of this historic stronghold has a story to tell.
Jersey’s coastal towers
Jersey’s coast is circled by Conway and Martello towers. Conway Towers were built in the late 1700s to protect the island from the threat of invasion by the French. Normally built with local granite, rather than brick, you can spot them for their round, slightly tapered shape. Some of them are painted red and white, or just white, to act as navigational aids for passing ships. Martello Towers can sometimes be brick, rather than granite, and were built by the British in the early 19th century.
Seymour Tower
Marooned in Jersey’s moonlit seabed, Seymour Tower is a fortress like no other—standing bold and square against the shifting tides. A relic of 1782, it watches over the island’s east coast, surrounded by an otherworldly landscape at low tide. Venture out only with a guide, but time it right – when the tide returns, the sea reclaims its secrets in a heartbeat.
La Rocco Tower
Rugged, remote and utterly unforgettable – La Rocco Tower stands defiantly in the heart of St. Ouen’s Bay, a striking sentinel against the Atlantic swell. Perched on its own tidal island, this 18th-century fortress is more than just a landmark – it’s an adventure. Stay overnight, feel the tide embrace you and watch golden sunsets paint the endless horizon.
Archirondel Tower
Perched on the water’s edge, Archirondel Tower is a coastal hideaway with a view to steal your breath away. Split over four levels, this striking red-and-white fortress comes with front-row seats to the ever-changing seascape of Archirondel Bay. With the waves at your doorstep, it’s the perfect escape for sea lovers and sunset seekers alike.
Icho Tower
Stay on dry land and head out east towards Icho Tower at very low tide and with a guide. Explore the rock pools, paddle about in the shallows, or venture out at night and join a bioluminescence ‘moonwalk’ on the seabed with Jersey Walk Adventures. Exploring the seabed is always best done with a guide. Stay safe and join the local experts who can take you on a coastal adventure.
Jersey forts
Why settle for ordinary when you can stay in a fortress? From the rustic L’Etacquerel Fort to the rugged charm of Fort Leicester, these historic forts offer a truly unique accommodation experience. Spend the night in a 18th-century stronghold, surrounded by the whispers of history and the stunning Jersey coastline, with the tide as your companion and the stars above. Adventure, comfort, and views that are anything but ordinary await!
Forts & castles to stay and play in
Mont Orgueil Castle
Mont Orgueil Castle, or Gorey Castle, has cast its imposing shadow over the beautiful fishing port of Gorey for more than 800 years. One of the finest examples of a medieval fortress in existence, Mont Orgueil is also a symbol of Jersey’s national identity and independent character.
L’Etacquerel Fort
A rustic retreat on Jersey's north coast - traverse the winding coastal path, lower the drawbridge and enter your own fort on the stunning, rugged north coast of Jersey. Built in the mid-19th Century on a cliff side overlooking Bouley Bay, L’Etacquerel Fort is a great base for exploring Jersey’s rugged north coast or a camping weekend.
Archirondel Tower
A coastal tower with wonderful views, the tower is split over four levels with a large terrace at ground level and a roof terrace overlooking the tranquil bay of Archirondel, the Tower is great for those looking for adventure, with the sea on your doorstep.
Grosnez Castle
Grosnez Castle is a ruined 14th-century castle in St. Ouen, situated in Grosnez in the north west corner of the island. Philippe de Carteret held it against the French when they took half of Jersey between 1461 and 1467, but it has been a ruin since the mid 16th century.
Elizabeth Castle Apartment
Sitting one mile off the coast of Jersey’s main town of St. Helier, the castle apartment sits within one of Jersey’s most iconic locations surrounded by the sea twice a day. The apartment, split over two levels, with a recently refurbished kitchen and shower room on the lower level, the apartment sleeps up to six people.
Kempt Tower
This historic Martello Tower has been restored with all modern conveniences. Sleeping up to 12 guests in an open plan living space, this property is a jewel within the bay of St. Ouen. It has a fully equipped kitchen, comfortable lounge area with flat screen TV with Freesat, spacious dining area and a fantastic roof terrace with 360 degree views.
Fort Leicester
Stay in your very own fort! Spread over three levels, this magnificent 19th century fort sits above the picturesque harbour of Bouley Bay and has a private garden and terrace. The guardhouse is converted to the main bedroom with one double bed and two single beds, and a wood burning stove.
Le Câtel Fort
Situated overlooking Grève de Lecq, this former battery and guardhouse (1789) occupies a peaceful spot on the North Coast. Encircled by a loop-holed wall, the Fort garden is ideal for small private functions and is licensed for weddings. This unique accommodation sleeps 10 and offers unparalleled views across the north coast of Jersey.
Radio Tower
A striking observation tower built during the Second World War converted into excellent self-catering accommodation. Standing on the south west tip of Jersey’s shoreline within Jersey's National Park, the tower has the most amazing views from the lounge, no matter what the weather.
La Crête Fort
Nestling on a headland, this tranquil property is built on Jersey’s rugged north coast and is surrounded on three sides by the sea. La Crête Fort comprises a double or twin bedroom, a single bunkroom and spacious shower room and large lounge/diner with sofa bed. A flight of stone steps will take you up to a large granite room with a vaulted ceiling
