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Fort Hommet: A Coastal Fortress Through Time

Explore Guernsey's Fort Hommet: a historic fortress with Martello tower, WWII bunkers, and stunning coastal views on Vazon Bay headland.

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Fort Hommet, perched on Guernsey's Vazon Bay headland, is a captivating site showcasing layers of history. Originally built in the 1680s, it features a Martello tower from 1804, Victorian-era additions, and WWII German bunkers, offering panoramic coastal views and a glimpse into the island's strategic past.

A brief summary to Fort Hommet

  • Fort Hommet, Guernsey, GG
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during low tide to see the rocks surrounding the fort and fully appreciate its coastal setting.
  • Check opening times for the restored gun casemate, typically open Tuesday and Saturday afternoons in the summer.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy the scenic views from the picnic benches along the footpath to the fort.
  • Combine your visit with a walk along Vazon Bay, known for its sandy beach and surf.
  • Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including rare plants, butterflies, and birds in the surrounding heathland.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From St Peter Port, several bus routes serve the Vazon Bay area near Fort Hommet, including routes 11, 41, 91, and 92. Alight at a stop along the coast road near Vazon Bay. From there, follow the signs towards Fort Hommet, which is a short walk from the main road. A standard daytime bus fare is £1.60, payable via contactless. Consider purchasing a day pass for unlimited travel if you plan to explore other parts of the island.

  • Walking

    If you are already in the Vazon Bay area, Fort Hommet is easily accessible by foot. From the southern end of Vazon Beach near Richmond Kiosk, follow the coastal path northwards. The path offers scenic views of the bay and leads directly to the fort. Alternatively, from the Vistas Cafe at the northern end of Vazon Beach, a path leads to the fort. The walk is generally easy, with some steps and uneven ground.

  • Driving

    If driving, follow Rue d'Albecq off the coast road. Look for the brown sign indicating the lane to Fort Hommet. Parking is available at the end of Rue d'Albecq. Alternatively, parking is available behind Vazon Beach near Vistas Cafe, with a footpath leading to the fort. Parking in Guernsey is mostly free, but many areas operate as 'disc zones,' requiring a parking clock to display your arrival time. Parking clocks can be purchased for £5.50 from various outlets. Check signage for time restrictions.

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Discover more about Fort Hommet

Fort Hommet, or Fort Houmet, stands as a testament to Guernsey's enduring strategic importance. Located on Vazon Bay headland in Castel, the site's fortifications date back to 1680. Over the centuries, it has evolved, incorporating a Martello tower built in 1804, Victorian-era batteries and barracks, and significant additions by the German occupying forces during World War II. The original fortifications were constructed as a defense against the French. In 1680, records indicate a fortification with a single gun. Following a French invasion attempt of Jersey in 1781, island defenses were improved with Guernsey loophole towers, including one nearby at Vazon. By 1805, the site held six guns. The road connecting St Peter Port and the fort was upgraded around 1808 to military standards. The fort was further upgraded and expanded during the Victorian era, with 68-pounder guns installed. During the German occupation of the Channel Islands, Fort Hommet was integrated into the Atlantic Wall as Stützpunkt Rotenstein (Strongpoint Rotenstein). The Germans added four casemates to house 10.5cm guns. These additions were rapidly constructed using wooden shutters into which concrete was poured. The surrounding area included barbed wire, trenches, machine gun pits, and flamethrowers, with a minefield to the north. Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved structures, including the restored gun casemate, which is open on Tuesday and Saturday afternoons during the summer. The headland also offers rich habitats, including sand dunes, wet meadows, and heathland, supporting diverse plant, butterfly, and bird species. The Shrine of the Sacred Heart, a former searchlight bunker transformed with shell mosaics, adds a unique artistic element to the site. Exploring Fort Hommet offers a blend of historical insight and natural beauty, making it a compelling destination for history buffs, nature enthusiasts, and anyone seeking panoramic coastal views.

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