Not much is left of Grosnez Castle today, but the dramatic ruins still reveal details about Jersey’s compelling history. Come to see a glimpse of the island’s past and stay to watch the sun set over the ocean in front of you. The castle is located on the cliffs of Les Landes in the northwest of the island, one of the most dramatic places in Jersey to enjoy wide, open panoramas of the English Channel.
The fortress was created to defend against the French. It was built around 1330 and in ruins by 1540, possibly destroyed as an act of vengeance during the Wars of the Roses in mainland Britain. Many of the stones were reputedly stolen to build St. Ouen’s Manor, which is located about 3 miles (5 kilometers) south of Grosnez Castle.
Stroll up to the ruins of Grosnez Castle from the parking area and try to picture what the castle might have looked like. The remains of a gatehouse form an archway facing the water, a Jersey sight so iconic that it has been featured on their coins. This marks the entrance to the old grounds of the castle, although many of the walls have now faded from view.
Walk through the archway and see if you can trace the outlines of the castle through the remnants of the wall. Historians believe that this was never intended as a siege castle, as there is no water source nearby.
Leave the castle behind and amble over to the cliffs of Les Landes. Watch the water below crashing onto the rocks. This is a popular spot for enjoying the sun set, as its westerly position leads to beautiful vistas of the ocean.
Grosnez Castle is located in the northwestern corner of the island of Jersey. Drive here in about 25 minutes from the capital of St. Helier or come from the airport, which is about 15 minutes away. Jersey’s bus system also runs a service from some of the towns to the Grosnez area. Explore the ruins for free at any time of year.
