Background

Fort William, Jersey: A Coastal Fortress with Layers of History

Explore a historic fortress in Jersey, blending 18th-century design with WWII fortifications. A testament to the island's strategic past.

Fort William in Jersey is a historic redoubt dating back to the 1760s, forming part of the island's defensive network. It also incorporates German defensive structures from World War II, reflecting Jersey's strategic importance throughout history. Today, the interior houses a private villa.

A brief summary to Fort William

  • Fort William, Union Rd, Jersey, JE

Local tips

  • While the interior is private, take a walk around the perimeter to appreciate the fort's architecture and strategic location.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Grouville Bay, known for its sandy beach and oyster production.
  • Explore other historical sites in the area, such as Mont Orgueil Castle, to delve deeper into Jersey's past.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From Union Road, Fort William is easily accessible on foot. Simply follow Union Road until you reach the fort. The walk offers scenic views of the surrounding area. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    Buses operate along routes near Fort William. Check local bus schedules for the closest stop on Union Road. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the fort. A single bus fare is approximately £2.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Jersey. A short taxi ride from Gorey or St. Helier to Fort William will cost approximately £10-£15, depending on traffic and the specific location.

Unlock the Best of Fort William

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Fort William

Fort William, located on Union Road in Jersey, is a fascinating site that encapsulates centuries of the island's military history. Originally constructed around 1760, this redoubt was a key component of Jersey's defensive network during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Its strategic location made it an ideal point for guarding the coastline. The fort's design features a square plan with a surrounding moat. Access to the fort is via a bridge leading to the landward entrance. The main structure consists of a thick encircling wall, approximately 4 meters in width, with dressed granite faces. Within these walls are various stores and rooms. Stone-paved gun platforms face seaward, while saw-tooth brick firing walls protect the other sides, each behind a raised defensive parapet faced with earth ramparts. In the 20th century, Fort William was integrated into the Atlantic Wall, with German forces adding steel-reinforced concrete structures during the Second World War. These additions included personnel shelters, machine gun positions, and a hexagonal mortar pit on the sea side of the fort. Today, the interior of Fort William is occupied by a private villa. While not generally open to the public, its exterior remains a testament to Jersey's layered past, combining 18th-century fortifications with 20th-century wartime additions.

Popular Experiences near Fort William

Popular Hotels near Fort William

Select Currency