All information in this blog post is correct as of the publishing date, 05.09.12.
The National Trust for Jersey annual Open Day celebrates Jersey’s heritage by offering the chance to explore sites and properties that would normally charge a fee or be closed, for free.
The National Trust for Jersey run open days to encourage visitors and locals to discover the island’s heritage, and appreciate the work that goes into preserving our history and unique culture.
The open day programmes features a varied selection of National Trust sites, from coastal forts to historic farms and mills. All events run from 1pm until 5pm.
Saturday 8th September
Le Don Hilton
Widely known as the White House or White Cottage due to its white-washed walls and roof, Le Don Hilton is an old guard house right in the centre of St. Ouen’s Bay, only a few yards from the edge of the sea wall. This weekend’s open day will feature a history of surfing exhibition with photographs, memorabilia and exhibits.
Les Cotils Farm
A work in progress, this tour gives you a chance to view the property and speak with architect, Bob Le Mottee.
The Elms
Gifted to the National Trust in 1978, The Elms is used as the Trust’s headquarters. Situated at the top of St. Peter’s Valley in the country parish of St. Mary, all three buildings will be open and Fairtrade refreshments will be served all day!
Le Moulin de Quétivel
The only working mill left of the original eight in St. Peter’s Valley, Le Moulin de Quétivel has been lovingly restored by the Trust and still grinds its own flour. The Mill also includes a display of Neolithic stones found in Jersey and a history of milling exhibit.
Sous Le Bois
Open house and refreshments.
Sunday 9th September
Le Don Hilton
Same as Saturday.
Morel Farm
Built over several centuries, Morel Farm is still a working farm and offers many interesting features to explore, including the original pressoir and the large granite cider press in the farm’s courtyard. The open day will include a visit by the Jersey Bee Keeper’s Association, cream teas, an open house and Aaron Le Couteur with his Manx Loaghton sheep!
Victoria Tower
Overlooking the island’s south-east coast, Victoria Tower is an original Martello Tower, and was completed in 1837. The tower was used as a defence site by the Germans during the island’s occupation before being transformed into an observatory for a time during the 1970s. The tower was purchased by the National Trust in 1980.
Brook Farm
Open house and outbuildings to explore.