Gorey, Jersey

Gorey, Jersey
Map of Jersey zoomed on Gorey.

Gorey (French: Gouray; Jèrriais: Gouôrray) is a village in the parishes of St. Martin and Grouville on the east coast of Jersey. It is one of the three main harbours of the island.

Its position as the closest strategic mainland point to the Cotentin peninsula has meant that it has a history of fortification going back at least to the Iron Age. After the division of the Duchy of Normandy in 1204, the strategic location of the harbour led to the construction of the castle of Mont Orgueil to protect the island against the French, also serving as residence for Governors of Jersey until the late 16th century when Elizabeth Castle was constructed off Saint Helier.

The pier below the castle is the scene of the annual Fête de la Mer (seafood gastronomic festival) and also contains an interpretation centre exhibiting the history and environment of the area. The annual Gorey Fête in August is one of the largest such events in Jersey.

Gouray Church, an Anglican church, serves the village and surrounding district.

Coordinates: 49°11′58″N 2°01′10″W / 49.19944°N 2.01944°W / 49.19944; -2.01944