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Castle Cornet

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St Peter Port·Attraction

Part of Guernsey Museums (States of Guernsey)

Story

Built c. 1206-1256 as a Norman castle on a tidal island. Survived French sieges (1338, 1380), held for Royalists during the English Civil War for 9 years (1642-1651), keep destroyed by lightning strike on magazine in 1672 killing the Governor's wife. Used by German forces in WWII. Protected Monument since 1938 (ref PM74). Gifted to the people of Guernsey by the Crown in 1947.

Castle Cornet is a fortified castle built c. 1206 on a tidal island guarding St Peter Port harbour. A Protected Monument (PM74) owned by the States of Guernsey and managed by Guernsey Museums, it houses four museums — Story of Castle Cornet, 201 Squadron (RAF) Museum, Royal Guernsey Light Infantry Museum, and Royal Guernsey Militia Museum — four historic period gardens, Cafe Maeva, and a gift shop. The daily noon-day gun ceremony, fired by costumed gunners in 19th-century costume, is a signature attraction. —

Specialises in8

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Historic & heritage venues

Historic houses, castles, heritage sites and heritage attractions used as event venues.

From their website

Heritage venue administrator

Guided tours

Bespoke guided tours and excursions for individuals and groups.

Quick facts

Established
c. 1206
Heritage designation
Protected Monument

From their website

Original phrasing from their website — lines covered by a capability above appear within its card.

  • Four museums (Story of Castle Cornet, 201 Squadron RAF Museum, Royal Guernsey Light Infantry Museum, Royal Guernsey Militia Museum)
  • four period gardens
  • daily noon-day gun ceremony
  • self-guided children's trails
  • dressing up area
  • Cafe Maeva

Credentials

Memberships & accreditations

  • States Of Guernsey Heritage

Hours

25 March to 6 September 2026: 10:00-17:00 daily including bank holidays

Contact

Phone
+44 1481 226518
Email
museums@gov.gg
Website
museums.gov.gg/CastleCornet
Social
Address
Castle Emplacement, St Peter Port, Guernsey GY1 1AU

History3

Key dates and recorded company events for Castle Cornet.

  • 1672—Keep destroyed by lightning strike · The lightning strike on the magazine killed the Governor's wife.
  • 1938—Designated as a Protected Monument
  • 1947—Gifted to the people of Guernsey by the Crown

Location

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Compiled from public sources — mistakes are possible. If something here looks wrong, let us know.

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