THE GARDENS OF THE SEIGNIORY

The Seigneurie, whose main building was constructed in 1675 by Jean Le Gros, father of Suzanne, wife of Nicholas Pelley, is located about 500 meters from the main street of the island of Sark. It was built on the site of the priory of Saint Magloire, a monastery dating from the 6th century. The oldest parts of the building are believed to be over 450 years old. Now the residence of the Lords of Sark, the Seigniory was mainly embellished by John Allaire, the lord of the island, who enlarged it by adding the watchtower, a square tower intended to serve as a semaphore to send messages to Guernsey. The public is not allowed to visit the Seigniory itself, but anyone can walk around the property and observe in the large garden, surrounded by granite walls protecting it from storms and frosts, the many plantations of exotic shrubs that the Lady and her grandson introduced to the island and the many rare plants that adorn it throughout. The Channel Islands do not experience frost, so the plants grow in the ground. We will also see the dovecote built to shelter the lords' pigeons. It is without doubt one of the most beautiful green spaces of the Anglo-Norman archipelago. A magnificent walk in perspective! Not to be missed during a trip to the island. Guided tours are often offered on Wednesdays in high season. Ask for more information!