Fortification Series – Essex Castle
The one true ‘Castle’ on the island perpetuates the name of the Earl of Essex, who purchased the governorship of Alderney in 1591. The construction of Essex Castle began during the reign of Henry VIII. The Castle was built overlooking Longis Harbour on the west side of the island to cover the "Race", the area of sea between Alderney and the other islands. After Henry's death, the Protector - Lord Somerset - of the boy king Edward VI pushed the building of Essex Castle forward. After periods of spasmodic building, work was abandoned in 1554 when Mary I came to the throne. In the 1840s the Tudor Castle was demolished and "Fort Essex" built in its place, where it was the site of a Military Hospital. It is the remains of this Fort that are today intermingled with a later, modern house which takes the name Essex Castle. The Castle is now an area of private residence, but the ‘Pepper Pot’ and spectacular viewpoint are still accessible, as well as a route outside the Castle walls.
The cache is located near the Pepper Pot, past a row of houses, in the remains of a German extension to the Castle, underground. Be careful when entering the bunker, it’s a bit of a rocky and muddy path. Don’t forget a pen and your torch.