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Castle Cornet: Guernsey's Historic Harbour Fortress

Explore Guernsey's iconic Castle Cornet: 800 years of history, museums, gardens, and stunning harbor views await!

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Castle Cornet, an 800-year-old castle, stands guard at the entrance to St Peter Port harbour in Guernsey. Explore its rich history, museums, and gardens, and enjoy panoramic views. Once a tidal island, it's now connected to the mainland and offers a captivating glimpse into the island's past.

A brief summary to Castle Cornet

  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Allow at least three hours to fully explore the castle and its museums.
  • Check the schedule for daily events, including the firing of the Noonday Gun.
  • Purchase a Discovery Pass for access to Castle Cornet and other Guernsey museums if you plan to visit multiple sites.
  • Be aware that the castle has steep steps and uneven surfaces, which may be challenging for visitors with mobility issues.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Castle Cornet is located on the southern arm of St Peter Port harbour. From the town bus terminus or main car parks, follow the raised walkway along the harbour emplacement. It's approximately a 10-15 minute walk from the town center.

  • Public Transport

    The R91 or R92 bus routes can be used to get around Guernsey. Alight at the St Peter Port bus terminus and follow the walking directions to the castle. A one-day bus pass costs £10.

  • Parking

    Parking spaces are available along Castle Pier and around the Model Yacht Pond, though they can fill up quickly in the summer. Parking is free, but most on-street parking is in a 'disc zone,' requiring a parking clock to indicate your arrival time. Parking clocks can be purchased for £5.50 from various locations. Small car parking schemes are available at Salerie Corner, North Beach, Albert Pier, Crown Pier, Cornet Street, Candie Road and Mignot Plateau.

Unlock the Best of Castle Cornet

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Discover more about Castle Cornet

Castle Cornet, a historic fortress with an 800-year legacy, commands a strategic position at the mouth of St Peter Port harbour. Originally constructed in the 13th century after King John lost Normandy, the castle was intended to defend Guernsey's busy trading harbor. Over the centuries, it has been expanded and adapted, witnessing sieges, battles, and periods of peace. Today, Castle Cornet is a major visitor attraction, offering a fascinating insight into the island's history. Within its walls, you'll find five museums: The Story of Castle Cornet, the Maritime Museum, the 201 Squadron (RAF) Museum, the Royal Guernsey Light Infantry Museum, and the Royal Guernsey Militia Museum. Each museum showcases different aspects of Guernsey's military and maritime past. The castle also boasts four restored period gardens, each reflecting a different era in the castle's history: the 16th-century Sutler's Garden, Lambert's Garden, the 18th-century Governor's Garden, and the 19th-century Master Gunner's Garden. Visitors can explore the castle grounds, enjoy the panoramic views, and witness daily attractions such as the firing of the Noonday Gun by costumed gunners. During World War II, the castle was occupied by a small German garrison who made concrete modifications to suit modern warfare. After the war, the Crown presented the castle to the people of Guernsey as a token of their loyalty. Castle Cornet is more than just a historical monument; it's a vibrant center that brings Guernsey's past to life.

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