Palaces to visit Jersey

Elizabeth Castle is built on an islet in the middle of Saint-Aubin Bay and has defended the island of Jersey for no less than 400 years. It is accessible on foot at low tide, from the Jardins de la Mer, by a 1 km long paved road. When the tide is high, a shuttle service is provided by World War II amphibious vehicles, the famous DUKWs, or ducks(departing daily from Victoria Avenue from mid-March to mid-October). Intended to replace Mont Orgueil Castle, which could not withstand cannon fire, construction began in 1590 and lasted nearly ten years. It was named in honor of Queen Elizabeth^I by Sir Walter Raleigh, then governor of the island (the castle was then used as the governor's residence). A Royalist stronghold during the Civil War, the fortress had to capitulate to Cromwell in 1651 after a 50-day siege. It was also used to repel French troops during the Battle of Jersey in 1781. The troops then moved to Fort Regent. Elizabeth Castle opened to the public in 1923. You can visit the barracks, which have been converted into a museum. They are particularly interesting: the exhibits illustrate the role of the castle in the history of the island and present many surprising details about the life of the soldiers and officers. From the upper courtyard, you can access the dungeon, the top of which offers a superb view. Visit and photos are mandatory!

Government House is the official residence of the Lieutenant-Governor (the man who rules Jersey on behalf of the King) and his wife. It is also the King's residence when he visits Jersey, as was the case with the late Queen during the last royal visit in 2005 to mark the 60th anniversary of the liberation of Jersey. This vast residence was built in 1814 and has been occupied by the Lieutenant-Governors since 1822. During the Second World War, it was also the residence of the German Command.