Sprinkle a touch of our history into your holiday in Jersey with a great range of places to stay, all of which are sure to transport you back in time. With an intriguing history filled with legend and myth, conflict and combat, Jersey has a distinctive culture and a rich tapestry of traditions. Experience some of this history for yourself by choosing to stay in one of a fantastic selection of heritage accommodation.
Where will you make history on your Jersey break?
Will you choose a medieval castle where the walls are awash with centuries old secrets? Perhaps a remote converted fort is for you? Or will you prefer the charm of a traditional Jersey farmhouse?
‘Far out’ forts and towers.
If you’re looking for a place to really get away from it all, look no further than booking a stay in one of our fabulous historic forts or towers. These iconic Jersey sites have stood strong and stoic for hundreds of years, some completely cut off at certain times of day by the island’s gigantic tides. Whether you’re after a back to basics affair or prefer a few home comforts during your stay, there’s an historic tower to suit you. And you’ll be pleased to hear – ‘do not disturb’ is taken literally at every one.
L’Etacquerel Fort – 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 rustic base for exploring Jersey’s rugged north coast or a camping weekend with family and friends.
Seymour Tower – Two miles offshore and completely surrounded by sea twice a day, this former coastal defence fortress stands on a rocky outcrop off the south-east tip of Jersey’s National Park in an internationally recognised RAMSAR wetlands site. The tower offers guests the ultimate retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the main land. It’s perfect for anyone looking for adventure; use it as a base for low water fishing, guided walks at low tide or bird watching.
La Crete Fort – Sitting on the island’s rugged north coast, this comfortably furnished coastal retreat boasts breath taking views from this fort over the sea to Guernsey, Sark and the coast of France. A secluded beach is close by, popular with local bathers and surfers. Wonderful sunsets can be enjoyed while sitting out in the walled garden.
La Rocco Tower Join your very own guide for a once-in-a-lifetime experience staying overnight at the iconic La Rocco Tower. Like Seymour, La Rocco Tower is completely surrounded by sea twice a day, and boasts unrivalled views of St Ouen’s Bay.
Catel Fort – Overlooking much loved Grève de Lecq Bay, 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.
A historic hotel stay.
The Pomme d'Or Hotel.
Originally built in 1837, the Pomme d’Or Hotel is part of the fabric of Jersey life. The hotel has played host to many famous names, from French poet and novelist Victor Hugo’s who visited in 1852 to British treasure Dame Vera Lynn, who ceremoniously opened the ‘Liberation Suite’ in 1990.
The hotel’s enviable St. Helier location overlooking the harbour proved to be a prime site during the second world war, when the occupying German forces commandeered it as their naval headquarters.
German forces occupied the island for five years, but it was from the balcony of the Pomme d’Or Hotel that, on the 09 May 1945, the Union Jack was raised to mark the Liberation of Jersey.
Each year, as part of the celebrations of this momentous event, a re-enactment of the island’s liberation is performed. The Allied troops land and make the triumphant journey to the Pomme d’Or Hotel’s balcony where they proudly raise the Union Jack as the watching crowd erupt in a jubilant celebration.
Step back in time on your self-catering getaway.
Discover historic self-catering stays with Jersey Heritage Lets, The National Trust for Jersey, Freedom Holidays and Macoles Self-Catering Holidays. Explore their unique places to stay and pick your perfect base for a holiday steeped in history.
Elizabeth Castle – Every day brings a new adventure at Elizabeth Castle; holiday here and you’ll always find something new to discover. Climb the battlements, explore the turrets and bunkers, fish from the Castle’s private beach when the tide is low and search out the 550 AD Hermitage where it’s thought Saint Helier once lived.
Hamptonne – A beautifully restored farm with a collection of thatched granite houses, stables and meadows with magnificent views across Jersey’s charming countryside. Cared for today by Jersey Heritage this living history museum offers you the chance to take a unique glimpse into what rural life once looked like in the island. Will you choose to stay at the lovingly restored Cider Barn Apartment? Or perhaps you’ll opt for the superb Stable Apartment. When the days visitors have left, you’ll have the property to yourself; apart from the cheeky chickens that roam free.
Kempt Tower – This historic Martello Tower in St. Ouen’s Bay was built in 1834 as a defensive tower against possible French invasion. Situated in Jersey’s National Park, just a stone’s throw from the beach and with picturesque paths that meander through Jersey’s wetland nature reserve and sand dunes; you simply couldn’t find a better location to reconnect with the all that is inspiring about the great outdoors.
Le Don Hilton – Locally known as ‘The White House’, choose Le Don Hilton for a truly unique holiday experience, escape for a revitalising day in the great outdoors with the clean clear ocean right on your doorstep. Relax and recharge here, admire the breathtaking natural beauty of the landscape, take a long walk along the beautiful golden sands or an invigorating dip in the waters of St. Ouen’s Bay; then when all the activity has tired you out, chill out and be mesmerised by the glorious sunset. The facilities at Le Don Hilton may be basic but the amazing location make it a quirky and exciting place to take a special and memorable break.
Elizabeth Castle, Le Don Hilton, Kempt Tower.
L’Hôpital – Majestically perched on the very edge of the east coast of the island, L’Hôpital has unparalleled, uninterrupted sea views across to France. L’Hôpital was built in the mid 1800’s to function as a small hospital to look after those injured building St. Catherine’s Breakwater.
St. Clement’s Farmhouse – Get a sense of bygone times with a stay in this charming, traditional Jersey farmhouse. A real gem that has been lovingly cared for, and lived in, by the Labey family since the 1700’s. Situated on the south east coast of the island where a superb stretch of coastline is part of a world protected RAMSAR site and surrounded farmland including south facing gentle slopes planted with the island’s iconic Jersey Royal potatoes.
Archirondel Tower – Built on a rocky outcrop in St. Catherine’s Bay in 1792, the red and white striped Archirondel Tower was once used as a garrison for artillery soldiers. Close to St. Catherine’s Woods, secluded beaches and the impressive St. Catherine’s Breakwater, Archirondel Tower provides a perfect coastal base.
Barge Aground – The iconic Barge Aground is uniquely positioned in the stunning St. Ouen’s Bay with direct access to the beach. Built in the 1930s, this is the last of the seaside follies and chalets which once lined the bay. The décor has a 1930s theme, with walnut wooden floors and some original furniture.
Samarès Manor.
Step back in time and live like the Seigneur of Samares at the stunning Samarès Manor, an outstanding house with medieval origins. Three cottages and three farmhouse apartments have been tastefully converted from the 19th century farm buildings, and all are set within a stunning Victorian courtyard, and the round colombier or dovecote, is believed to be the oldest in Jersey.
Grève de Lecq Barracks – Constructed around 1810 Grève de Lecq Barracks is located just two minutes from the beach. This is the perfect base from which to discover the dramatic cliff paths of the island’s north coast. Live like an Army Officer in the converted quarters and feel the history in the very fabric of the building but beware of a court marshall as there are two prison cells on the site too. Whether it’s a relaxing beach break or an active outdoor getaway, stay at Grève de Lecq Barracks and make some marvellous memories.
Nicolle Tower – Fancy a ‘holi’ in a folly? Then Nicolle Tower is for you. Originally a single room, single storey signal box, the architecture of Nicolle Tower has been transformed across the ages, converted in the early 19th century and again in 1943 during the German occupation when it served as an observation point. Standing at 160 feet high the tower enjoys outstanding views over the sea and surrounding islands in every direction.
