Charles’ island retreat
Elizabeth Castle provided a convenient bolt-hole for a prince on the run
In early 1646, when it became clear that the forces of the king had lost the Civil War between the royalists and parliamentarians, Charles I sent his son – the future Charles II – to the Isles of Scilly and then on to Jersey. There the prince set up court in St Helier at Elizabeth Castle – a spectacular location made more impressive still during the 14 hours a day when the rising tide transforms it into an island.
Just below the highest point is the governor’s house which was hurriedly turned into a royal residence in 1646. On the ground floor was a hall and a parlour used by the royal guards; above was the prince’s withdrawing rooms and bedroom, with fine views over the bay. In the lower ward stood the chapel, where the prince sat in his own tapestry-lined pew. More tapestry, plate and fine furniture transported aboard one of Charles’s ships lent a suitably majestic luxury to the residence. When he was not out hunting, hawking or enjoying yachting in the bay, Charles dined (on gold plate) in public in his parlour, watched by spectators, and held receptions for the island’s gentry.
The prince left Jersey in June 1646. When he returned three years later, after the execution of Charles I, he was proclaimed king. The governor’s house was truly a royal palace, and he held court with all the pomp he could muster. In February 1650, he left for the last time – and the Channel Islands fell to parliament. Though much altered from its brief glory, the governor’s house can still be visited; guided walks reveal the castle’s wider story.
VISIT For more information on visiting Elizabeth Castle, go to jerseyheritage.org