Fort Leicester

• Sleeps: 8
• Bedrooms: 2
• Bathroom: 1
• Minimum stay: 2 nights

Dating all the way back to the late 16th century, Jersey’s imposing Fort Leicester was named after the Earl of Leicester, a stalwart favourite of Queen Elizabeth I.

Built into the rock face above Bouley Bay’s scenic harbour, the fort boasts a compelling military history, once home to heavy cannons and weaponry manned by the island militia.

Now reborn as a secluded and comfortable holiday retreat, Fort Leicester’s skilful transformation means that from the moment you arrive, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time… particularly since there’s no live TV or Wi-Fi to distract you from your mesmerising surroundings.

Sleeping up to eight guests and their well-behaved dogs, accommodation is generously spaced across three levels, with quirky outdoor access to each (if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the resident wall lizards on your travels, which are unique to Jersey.)  

The ground floor has been converted from the fort’s searchlight housing, which was added by occupying German forces during World War Two. Here you’ll find a modern fitted kitchen and relaxed dining area, along with a comfy lounge to relax in by evening. The sofa bed here sleeps two guests comfortably.

Although there is a DVD player to watch on the TV (which has no live reception) should conversation falter, you might prefer cradling a drink out on the terrace, instead. Once the dramatic setting for a gun emplacement, here you can savour scenes of the ever-changing sea and sky, as well as watch the local fishing boats weaving in and out of the harbour… and perhaps even the occasional dolphin.

Meanwhile, the first-floor magazines have been expertly re-imagined as a cosy twin bunk room, and a bathroom with bath and shower. You’ll find the master bedroom on the top level, featuring a double bed, two singles, and a crackling woodburning stove to give your evenings an irresistibly warming glow.

At a glance

• A historic stronghold built into the rock face above Bouley Bay, part of Jersey’s National Park, expertly restored with authentic features to sleep up to 8 guests.
• Self-contained accommodation is spaced across 3 levels, with outdoor access to each room (see if you can spot one of the resident wall lizards sunbathing on your way!)
• There are two bedrooms: a twin bunk room on the first level, and a bedroom with a double and two single beds on the second. There is a comfy sofa bed in the ground-floor lounge.
• Sit out on the terrace with your morning coffee, and watch the fishing boats weave their way in and out of the harbour.
• There is a diving school and beach café close by, and plenty of scope for long, windswept coastal walks. A car is recommended if you want to explore further afield.

Features

• Dog Friendly
• Family Friendly
• Large Groups
• Seaside Breaks

More information

After a sound night’s sleep and a hearty home-cooked breakfast, simply head down to the beach below, armed with a good book, or take a stroll along the winding coastal paths to visit the sweeping cluster of scenic bays nearby (take the dogs… and your camera!)

In the mood to learn something new? Head for the friendly diving school in Bouley Bay – which also boasts a beach café, if you’d rather watch the waves than dive into them.

While away precious holiday time with your loved ones gently and memorably at Fort Leicester, surrounded by magnificent coastal scenery, and a unique, fascinating retreat with a wealth of stories to tell.

Things to note

Well-behaved dogs are welcome, at a small charge per dog. A cot is available on request. Please note that due to steep staircases throughout, this property is not suitable for guests with additional mobility requirements. There is no live TV reception or Wi-Fi.