Lewis Tower, Jersey, Martello tower in St Ouen's Bay, Jersey
Lewis Tower is a Martello fortification situated in St Ouen's Bay with an elliptical footprint rising three stories high. The structure features reinforced walls on its seaward side and a central column containing a spiral staircase that connects each floor.
Built in 1835 under Colonel Griffith Lewis, this tower was part of Jersey's coastal defense system against potential French invasion. The fortification reflects British military strategy deployed across the Channel Islands during the post-Napoleonic era.
The tower represents British military engineering traditions, incorporating Martello design principles adapted to Jersey's defensive requirements in the 19th century.
The tower accommodates about six people with electricity and camp beds available, though visitors need to bring sleeping bags and food supplies. Access is best made on foot across the beach, and tidal conditions should be checked before visiting.
During World War II, German forces constructed a concrete extension at the tower's base for a searchlight facility and built an adjacent military bunker. These additions remain visible today and demonstrate how the site served different purposes across distinct historical periods.
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