Rousse Tower
One of Guernsey's fifteen loophole towers, restored and open on the north coast.
Saved in this browser only - no account, nothing sent anywhere. See your map
Fifteen loophole towers were built around Guernsey's coast in 1778-79, squat round granite structures with firing slits and a doorway well above ground, and Rousse on the north coast is the one restored and left open, with an interpretation display inside explaining how the chain worked. It stands on a headland with a small harbour beside it and the whole north coast in view. The towers were built in a hurry when invasion was expected, and the money came from the island's own parishes rather than from London.
What you actually see
- The loophole tower - a 1770s granite tower with its raised doorway.
- The interior display - the interpretation of the island's tower chain.
- The headland position - the tower on its point with the harbour beside.
- The tower chain - one of fifteen built around the coast.
When to go
Year round; the tower is open through the day. Summer evenings are best on the headland. Winter winds here are strong.
Honest expectations
The tower is small and a single room; an hour is generous. The other fourteen towers are closed. There are no facilities beyond parking.
Nearby
Vale Castle is east, and Cobo Bay is southwest.
What to pack for Rousse Tower
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
