Seymour Tower sits two kilometres offshore in the Royal Bay of Grouville in one of the largest inter-tidal reef sites in Europe. A square tower with a gun battery at the base, it is an exceptional example of Jersey’s unique form of coastal defence tower, developed by Sir Henry Seymour Conway, a Governor of Jersey in the late 18th century.

Seymour Tower was built in 1782 as a direct response to the failed French invasion a year earlier when Major Francis Pierson’s men defeated Baron de Rullecourt’s forces in the Royal Square. To prevent a repeat of the events of January 1781, it was decided to build a tower on the high water mark on L’Avarison islet.

The isolated location of Seymour Tower, in an area of internationally recognised environmental importance, is a major consideration in the uses deemed appropriate by Jersey Heritage.

During the highest spring tides of the year, the sea recedes almost as far from the tower as the tower itself stands from the Island. For the ill-informed and unprepared a low water expedition can be fraught with dangers, but for those who make sure they are aware of tide times and the risks of leaving it too late to return to the shore, exploring the marine wilderness of Jersey’s south-east coast is a safe and relaxing pursuit. Seymour is not available for hire every day of the year. Bookings are only taken when the tide allows safe and manageable access on foot.  Also, for all those hiring the venue, there will be strict safety procedures and rules.

Seymour Tower can be used as a base for activities such as low water walks, kayaking and canoeing, bird watching, and fishing.