Fort Grey
Guernsey (UK)
Fort Grey is a distinctive Martello tower situated on a tidal rock in Rocquaine Bay on Guernsey's west coast. Originally built in 1804 during the Napoleonic Wars on the ruins of the medieval Château de Rocquaine, it served as a coastal defense and warning station. Named after Charles Grey, 1st Earl Grey, the fort was equipped with a 24-pounder carronade to protect against invasion. During World War II, the German forces occupied Fort Grey, designating it as Widerstandsnest Graur Turm and arming it with anti-tank guns and machine guns. Today, Fort Grey functions as a local shipwreck museum, housing marine salvage items from famous wrecks such as the MV Prosperity and HMS Boreas, including a cannon pointing towards the Hanois rocks where Boreas sank in 1807. The museum also preserves timbers from a 3rd-century Roman ship nicknamed "Asterix," discovered in St Peter Port harbor. The fort and its slipway are protected as a historic monument, reflecting its military and cultural significance. Its unique location, architectural features, and maritime exhibits make it a compelling destination for visitors interested in history and the sea.
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Consejo: Visitors are advised to check the museum's opening hours on the official website before planning their visit. The best time to explore Fort Grey is during low tide when access is easier. Advance booking is recommended for group visits or special events. Discounts may be available for seniors, students, and families. The museum is accessible via a military-standard road upgraded in the early 19th century, and parking is available nearby.
Datos interesantes
- •Fort Grey is colloquially known as the "cup and saucer" due to its distinctive shape.
- •The fort houses a cannon from HMS Boreas, which sank nearby in 1807 with significant loss of life.
- •Timbers from a 3rd-century Roman ship nicknamed "Asterix" were found in St Peter Port harbor and are preserved for display.
- •The site was historically associated with witchcraft meetings in the 16th century.
- •Fort Grey was one of three locations on Guernsey where a warning gun was fired to signal invasion threats.
Historia
The site originally hosted the Château de Rocquaine, a small medieval fortification noted in the 1620s as a militia post but in poor condition.
In the 16th and early 17th centuries, the area was associated with local witchcraft gatherings.
The current fort was constructed in 1804 by Thomas Henry during the Napoleonic Wars to bolster coastal defenses.
Named after Governor Charles Grey, it was one of three forts firing warning guns in case of invasion.
In 1891, the War Office sold Fort Grey to the States of Guernsey.
During World War II, German occupiers fortified it as Widerstandsnest Graur Turm.
Since then, it has been converted into a museum preserving maritime artifacts and local history.
Guía del lugar
Martello Tower Structure1804
The tower itself is a classic example of a Martello tower, built to defend the coast with thick walls and a rooftop battery mounting a 24-pounder carronade. Its unique 'cup and saucer' shape distinguishes it from other towers.
Shipwreck Museum Exhibits
The museum displays a variety of maritime salvage artifacts, including items from the MV Prosperity and HMS Boreas. A notable exhibit is the cannon from HMS Boreas aimed towards the Hanois rocks where the ship sank.
Roman Ship Timbers Exhibit3rd century
Preserved timbers from a 3rd-century Roman ship nicknamed "Asterix" discovered in St Peter Port harbor are on display, representing one of the oldest maritime archaeological finds in the region.
Contacto
Teléfono: 01481 265036
