Elizabeth Castle
St Aubin's Bay, St Helier, Jersey, JE2 3NU, United Kingdom. The ferry kiosk is at Les Jardins de la Mer, West Park, St Helier.
Rating: 4.6 ★ (1741 ratings)
Details
Elizabeth Castle, located on a tidal island in St Aubin's Bay, Jersey, has defended the island for over 400 years. Construction began in the late 16th century, as the older Mont Orgueil castle was no longer sufficient to protect against cannon fire. The castle was named after Queen Elizabeth I and has played a significant role in Jersey's history, including providing refuge for King Charles II during the English Civil War and being refortified during the German Occupation in World War II.
Today, Elizabeth Castle is a major tourist attraction and museum managed by Jersey Heritage. Visitors can explore its battlements, bunkers, and various historical exhibits, including the Jersey Royal Militia museum. The castle is accessible by a causeway at low tide or by an amphibious castle ferry. Jersey Heritage is currently undertaking restoration work on parts of the castle, including the Georgian Military Hospital and the Officers' Quarters, to ensure its preservation for future generations.
Location
Opening Hours
The Castle is closed until March 2025 for general admission due to ongoing restoration. Previously, seasonal opening hours were typically 10:00-17:30 between late March and late October. It is advisable to check the Jersey Heritage website for the most up-to-date information on reopening and tour times.
Contact
+44 (0) 1534 634048, [email protected]