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Mont Orgueil: A Medieval Fortress with Panoramic Views

Explore a medieval castle with stunning views of Gorey Harbour and the French coast. Discover Jersey's rich history at Mont Orgueil.

Mont Orgueil, also known as Gorey Castle, is a magnificent 13th-century fortress overlooking Gorey Harbour on Jersey's east coast. For over 400 years, it served as the island's primary defense against French attacks. Explore its towers, staircases, and secret rooms, and discover breathtaking views of the French coast.

A brief summary to Mont Orgueil

  • Gorey, Jersey, JE

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as there are many steps and uneven surfaces to navigate within the castle.
  • Visit on a clear day to enjoy the best views of the surrounding coastline and France.
  • Check the Jersey Heritage website for special events and guided tours.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the castle and its exhibits.
  • Enjoy a 'brew with a view' at the café, which sources local ingredients.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From St Helier, take LibertyBus route 1, 1A, 2, or 13 to Gorey Pier. The journey takes approximately 23 minutes. From Jersey Airport (JER), take the route 15 bus to Liberation Station in St Helier, then transfer to route 1, 1A, 2, or 13 to Gorey Pier. A single bus fare is approximately £3. From Gorey Pier, it's a short walk to the castle entrance.

  • Walking

    From Gorey Pier, pedestrian access to Mont Orgueil is available via La P'tite Ruelle Muchie, Gorey Harbour Pier, and the main entrance at Castle Green, off La Route de la Côte. The walk to the main entrance is short but uphill.

  • Parking

    Disc and paycard parking is available at Gorey Harbour and on Gorey Coast Road. A free public car park can be found at Long Beach, a ten-minute walk away. Parking at Long Beach is free. Parking charges apply at Gorey Harbour and Gorey Coast Road.

Unlock the Best of Mont Orgueil

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Discover more about Mont Orgueil

Mont Orgueil, also called Gorey Castle, stands as a testament to Jersey's rich history and strategic importance. Construction began around 1204, following the division of the Duchy of Normandy. For centuries, it served as the island's main defense, guarding against French invasions. The castle's architecture reflects its evolution through the ages. Explore the network of staircases, towers, and secret rooms. Discover hidden treasures and gruesome stories of castle life through specially commissioned artwork. Climb to the top for panoramic views of Gorey Harbour and the French coast. Over time, advancements in weaponry diminished Mont Orgueil's military significance. Elizabeth Castle was constructed in the late 16th century to better defend against cannon fire. However, Mont Orgueil was spared from demolition and later served as a prison. Today, Mont Orgueil is managed as a museum by Jersey Heritage and offers visitors a glimpse into the island's past. Explore exhibitions, climb the turrets, and delve into the castle's intriguing history. Don't miss the 'Witches in Hell' exhibit in the cellars and the medieval 'wheel of urine' in the turrets. The castle also features specially commissioned artwork that tells the story of its past. With almost 200 steps to the top, the climb is rewarded with some of the best views in Jersey.

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