Garrison Tower, Coastal lookout tower in St. Mary's, England.
Garrison Tower is a circular granite structure in St. Mary's that rises three stories with windows on the middle level and a stone parapet at the top. The building stands in Hugh Town and now serves as holiday accommodation accessible by stone steps with a metal handrail.
The structure began as a windmill in the 17th century before being converted into a coast guard observation post in the 1830s. Lloyd's of London took over the building in 1871 to monitor shipping for commercial purposes.
The tower stands as a landmark in Hugh Town, reflecting the islands' deep connection to the sea and maritime life. It remains a visible reminder of how coastal communities once monitored their waters for trade and safety.
The tower sits within easy walking distance of Hugh Town's center and is straightforward to locate. Visitors should be aware that the stairs are steep and the interior space is compact.
The tower's role as private overnight accommodation is surprising, as visitors often expect a public museum or exhibition space. This conversion lets travelers sleep in a structure tied directly to real maritime commerce and safety.
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