Guernsey Museum sites reopen for 2025 season
Castle Cornet, Fort Grey and The German Naval Signals HQ (now with updated displays and a fresh new look) will reopen to the public for the new season on 26 March 2025.
25 March 2025
The German Naval Signals HQ
Situated in St. Jacques, St. Peter Port, the German Naval Signals bunker served as the headquarters for the German Naval Commander of the Channel Islands during World War II. All-important radio signals traffic for the German Forces in the Channels Islands was handled there.
In anticipation of Guernsey’s 80th anniversary of Liberation Day this year, the interpretation panels throughout the bunker have been redesigned to give them a modern new look. Educational activities have been refreshed throughout the bunker; as well as the enigma code machine to try and codes to crack, additions include dressing up outfits inspired by Alan Turing (the British mathematician, logician and World War II code breaker) and Violette Szabo, British-French Special Operations Executive Agent during World War II.
The German Naval Signals HQ will also be the location for a one-of-a-kind Sketch Night on Monday 31 March from 6pm. Seasoned artists and absolute beginners are invited to step into the atmospheric bunker and let it inspire their work. All skill levels are welcome, and attendees can bring their own sketching materials or use the ones provided. Booking is essential: Adults £5, free entry for Students or Discovery Pass holders.
The headquarters also has an expanded merchandise offer, with bespoke postcards, local Liberation 80 merchandise and Guernsey Museum's 'Occupation to Liberation' book priced at only £5 (usually £9.99) until the end of May 2025.
Castle Cornet
The site houses four museums (The Story of Castle Cornet, 201 Squadron (RAF) Museum, Royal Guernsey Light Infantry Museum and the Royal Guernsey Militia Museum) and four historic gardens. Visitors can explore the site and enjoy breathtaking views towards St. Peter Port and the other islands.
The noon day gun and living history performances in the summer months are added highlights of this iconic attraction.
Wednesday 26 March will see the first noon-day gun of the year fired from Castle Cornet. Members of the public are invited to come and watch this beloved event to usher in the new season (standard admission applies).
Fort Grey Shipwreck Museum
The Martello tower, affectionately as the "Cup and Saucer”, houses the Shipwreck Museum and a fascinating collection of artefacts, as well as offering spectacular views of the bay and the Hanois Lighthouse. Discovery boxes, filled with objects and activities to help children explore the museum and fort, are available to loan for free, with trails and quizzes available inside the Tower.
The Guernsey Roman Ship can also be visited in a building at Guernsey Pearl opposite the Fort.
Discovery Pass
The Discovery Pass is the best value ticket for those making multiple visits to these attractions - either to the same site several times or to explore them all. The annual adult pass, priced at £24, allows unlimited visits to Castle Cornet, Guernsey Museum, Fort Grey and German Naval Signals HQ, plus free entry for accompanying children and 10% discounts at selected gift shops and cafes.
Helen Glencross, Head of Heritage Services, said:
“For the 2025 season, we’re thrilled to welcome visitors back to Guernsey Museum sites, with exciting updates at the German Naval Signals HQ. The refreshed interpretation panels and engaging new activities offer a deeper and more immersive experience.
“As we approach Guernsey’s 80th Liberation anniversary, it’s the perfect time to reflect on our history while enjoying everything these unique sites have to offer. Whether it’s exploring Castle Cornet, uncovering shipwreck stories at Fort Grey, or stepping back in time at the German Naval Signals HQ, there’s something for everyone.
“We also encourage visitors to take advantage of the Discovery Pass, which offers fantastic value for unlimited visits and discounts, making it easier than ever to explore Guernsey’s rich heritage throughout the year.”
Notes:
Guernsey Museum sites will be open 26 March 2025 until 2 November 2025 inclusive.
Opening times:
Castle Cornet: 10.00-17.00 daily
Fort Grey Shipwreck Museum: 10.00-16.30 daily
GNSHQ: 10.30-15.00 daily
Guernsey Museum at Candie: 10.00-17.00 daily
Attendance at all the Guernsey Museums sites is free if you purchase a Discovery Pass; the Pass allows unlimited visits plus free entry for all accompanying children under 18.
Visitors will find children’s activities at all the locations including trails, quizzes and opportunities for dressing up.
