Mont Orgueil Castle

4.0

Address

Castle Green, Gorey, Jersey JE3 6ET, Jersey

Website

https://www.jerseyheritage.org/visit/places-to-visit/mont-orgueil-castle/

Telephone

01534 853292

Fun Facts

1. Mont Orgueil Castle, constructed around 1204, has guarded Jersey for over 600 years, offering panoramic views of the Channel Islands and French coast.
2. The castle hosts Gorey Fete, Jersey's largest annual festival, featuring medieval reenactments.
3. There's a "witchcraft" exhibit featuring a sculpture of a witch submerged in a pit.
4. The castle contains an artwork titled "The Hermit", a human-shaped construction made entirely from wine bottles.
5. Local legend says that a phantom monk, the ghost of a former castle inmate, still haunts its hallways.

Tips

1. Best Time to Visit: Plan your visit during spring or summer when the weather is pleasant, ideal for exploring the castle and its surrounding areas. During these seasons, the castle opens from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, providing ample time to thoroughly enjoy your visit.

2. Itinerary Planning: Ensure to dedicate at least 2-3 hours of your day to explore Mont Orgueil Castle, as the site has several fantastic exhibits, secret rooms, and towers to discover. Start with the ground floor exhibitions before working your way up for panoramic views of the coastline.

3. Money-Saving: Opt for a Heritage Pass if you plan to visit other Heritage Sites in Jersey. The pass covers unlimited access to four must-see sites, including Mont Orgueil, for seven days, offering significant savings for travelers.

4. Dining: Make sure to drink in the views at the castle's Harbour Room Café. You can choose from a variety of snacks and lunch options or bring your packed lunch if you prefer. However, don't miss tasting local seafood in one of the nearby restaurants in Gorey, located at the foot of the castle.

5. Entertainment and Popular Spots: Attend the castle's historical reenactments to learn about Jersey's fascinating past. Make sure to climb to the top of the castle for spectacular views of the French coast and don't forget to check out the "Witch on a Toad" artwork on one of the towers. Nearby is Gorey Pier, a picturesque harbour that's perfect for leisurely strolls.

Reviews

1. Positive Review: A visitor lauded Mont Orgueil Castle for its historical significance with artefacts dating back centuries. They were impressed by the well-preserved structures and interactive displays that helped to understand the history. Moreover, they praised stunning views of the island from the top of the castle.

2. Positive Review: A second reviewer admired the attentive and knowledgeable staff. They highlighted the individual rooms filled with intriguing and informative exhibits as a plus. They also mentioned the hilly and strenuous walk but found it worthwhile for the scenic views and the history steeped within the castle walls.

3. Constructive Feedback: One reviewer felt signage and guidance could be improved for a more navigable experience. While they appreciated the history, they found it slightly challenging to understand the layout and sequence of rooms within the castle. The visitor suggested more explanatory plaques or a map for enhanced visitor understanding and convenience.

Nearby POI

Google Map

The Dolphin Hotel & Restaurant, Seascale, Rhona's at the Beach

AI

Elizabeth Castle - Remarkable castle offering guided tours, a museum, and breathtaking coastal views.
Jersey War Tunnels - Underground complex built during WWII, now a compelling museum.
Durrell Wildlife Park - Expansive zoo and conservation centre home to rare and endangered species.
Gorey Pier - Picturesque pier featuring a selection of delightful seafood restaurants.
St Helier's Bay - Beautiful sandy beach ideal for families, with a variety of watersports available.
Samares Manor - Manor and botanical garden offering a tranquil setting and guided tours.
La Hougue Bie - Unique ancient site, featuring one of Europe's finest passage graves.
Corbière Lighthouse (Phare de la Corbière) - Iconic lighthouse and viewing point offering outstanding views of the coastline.
Poppy's Top Dog School - Dog training school renowned for its friendly service and expertise.
Pallot Steam, Motor & General Museum - Museum offering a fascinating collection of steam, motor, and wartime exhibits.