Castle Cornet – Saint Peter Port, Guernsey - Atlas Obscura

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Castle Cornet

Saint Peter Port, Guernsey

An 800-year-old island castle in Guernsey's main harbor. 

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This 800-year-old castle boasts incredible views of the whole east coast of Guernsey and across to the other islands of Herm, Sark, and Alderney. It is steeped in history that includes the English Civil War and the German occupation of the castle and islands during World War II.

Formerly a tidal island, this plot of land was first fortified as a castle in the early 13th century. In its earliest days, the castle comprised a keep, a chapel, two courtyards, and curtain walls. The fortified structure grew over time, and saw a number of conflicts.

Today it is home to four museums on military history, the RAF and the story of the castle, and a new maritime museum. The grounds benefit from a full-time keeper who tends the historic gardens and keeping them looking beautiful. The daily noon-day gun firing of a 32-pound cannon by a gunner in traditional 19th-century uniform is the highlight of any visit and can be accompanied by a castle tour in the morning, tea in the cafe, and relaxing in the sunshine!

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October 12, 2021

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