Exploring Fort Grey: Guernsey's Historic Martello Tower

Located on Guernsey’s rocky west coast, Fort Grey, affectionately known as the "Cup and Saucer," stands as a testament to the island’s rich maritime history. Built in 1804, this iconic Martello Tower was originally constructed to defend Guernsey from potential invasions. Today, it serves a dual purpose: as a historical landmark and the fascinating Fort Grey Shipwreck Museum.

Why Visit Fort Grey?

Fort Grey is not just a historical site; it’s an educational adventure. The combination of its rich history, intriguing shipwreck museum, and interactive exhibits make it a must-visit destination in Guernsey. Whether you’re a history buff, a family looking for an engaging day out, or someone interested in maritime tales, Fort Grey offers a unique and memorable experience.

Discover the stories of Guernsey’s maritime past and enjoy a day steeped in history and adventure at Fort Grey.

A Dive into History

Fort Grey’s strategic position near the notorious Hanois reef has made it a silent witness to numerous shipwrecks over the centuries. The Fort Grey Shipwreck Museum houses a diverse collection of objects recovered from these wrecks, each telling a gripping story of maritime disaster and survival. From the wreck of HMS Sprightly in 1777 to the more recent Vermontborg in 2003, the museum’s exhibits provide a vivid glimpse into the perilous nature of Guernsey’s coastal waters.

Visiting Fort Grey in 2024

Fort Grey is open to visitors from March 20 to November 3, 2024. Here are the details:

• Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 to 16:30
• Entry Prices:
  • Adults: £4
  • Children (7+)/Students: £1.50
  • Accompanied children under 7: Free

For those planning multiple visits, the Discovery Pass offers excellent value. For £22, this annual pass grants access to Fort Grey, Castle Cornet, Guernsey Museum, and the German Naval Signals Headquarters, with free entry for accompanying children under 18.

Things to Do at Fort Grey

Explore the Shipwreck Museum: Delve into the history of shipwrecks around Guernsey’s treacherous west coast. The museum's artefacts and detailed information panels bring the dramatic tales of maritime disasters to life.

Interactive Activities: Fort Grey offers a range of activities to engage visitors of all ages:

• Discovery Boxes: Available to loan for free, these boxes are filled with objects and activities designed to help children explore the museum and fort.
• Trails and Quizzes: Inside the Tower, you’ll find trails, quizzes, and spot-it picture boards that make learning about the fort’s history fun and interactive.
• Dressing Up: Enjoy a variety of historical costumes available for dressing up, perfect for immersive play and photo opportunities.

Roman Ship Timbers Display: Adjacent to the Guernsey Pearl building, you’ll find the remarkable display of Guernsey’s Roman Ship timbers. Learn about the ancient vessel and how it came to rest off Guernsey’s coast.

Visitor Amenities

Ticket Purchase and Facilities: Tickets can be purchased at Guernsey Pearl, where you’ll also find a shop, café, toilets, and ample parking. This convenient setup ensures a comfortable visit, with all necessary amenities close at hand.

Getting to Fort Grey

Finding Fort Grey is easy. It is centrally located in Rocquaine Bay, with ample parking available at Guernsey Pearl, just across the road from the causeway.