La Rocco Tower, St Ouen’s Bay
Discover La Rocco Tower: A Historic Landmark in St Ouen’s Bay
La Rocco Tower, located at the southern end of St Ouen’s Bay, is a stunning piece of Jersey’s history. Built between 1796 and 1801, the tower was originally constructed as part of a series of coastal defenses to protect the island from potential French invasion. Its name, "La Rocque Ho" or "Rocque Hou," translates to "rocky islet," a fitting description for its location perched on a small islet surrounded by the sea.
The tower was one of 30 coastal towers proposed by Sir Henry Seymour Conway when he was appointed Governor of Jersey. When the threat of a French invasion from St Malo loomed large, that La Rocco Tower became a priority build. Strategically placed, it guarded the southern entrance to St Ouen’s Bay, standing as a symbol of the island’s determination to defend itself.
Today, La Rocco Tower offers a unique experience for those looking to step back in time. You can join an expert guide for a special tour, learning about the tower’s history and its role in Jersey’s defense. For an unforgettable adventure, stay in the tower itself, built in 1796 to defend Jersey. Surrounded by sea twice a day as the tide rises, La Rocco Tower offers an island experience like no other—a perfect place to soak in the beauty and history of St Ouen’s Bay.