Essential conservation work starts on Telegraph Tower
Telegraph Tower, standing on high ground at the south-west corner of Alderney, has been a prominent island landmark for well over two centuries.
Constructed in 1809 as the most northerly position in the Channel Islands' telegraph network, designed to report on French naval movements during the latter half of the Napoleonic Wars, it is the only remaining, purpose-built location though sadly lacking its original, unique signalling system designed by Peter Archer Mulgrave.
During the Second World War, having inserted a reinforced concrete roof on the tower, the Germans mounted an anti-aircraft gun on it. Latterly, it had been converted for private occupation, but then abandoned.
Reinstated by the States of Alderney, complete with new windows and opened to the public as a visitor attraction in the summer of 2025 by the Trust's patron, Lieutenant General Sir Richard Cripwell, KBE. CB., Telegraph Tower has become a star attraction on the tourist trail.
However, as with many historic buildings of this period, dampness in the outer walls was leading to serious deterioration of the internal surfaces, threatening the material displayed for interpreting the special history of the site, such that the States of Alderney decided that the complete repointing of the exterior in lime mortar was essential. This has been made possible by the General Services Committee's prompt response to the need to conserve this historic States' property, and a substantial grant by the Trust, enabling work to commence immediately.
GSC chairman, Iain MacFarlane said:
“The States of Alderney is grateful to The Henry Euler Memorial Trust for its generous support, which has enabled these important works at Telegraph Tower to be commissioned.
“It is encouraging to see the scaffolding and protective sheeting now in place, particularly as we head into the wetter months, marking an important step towards preserving this historic landmark for future generations.”
Caroline Gauvain, speaking for States Tourism and Marketing, echoed these feelings saying:
“The reopening of Telegraph Tower has been a fantastic addition to Alderney’s visitor offer, with more than 7,600 people exploring the historic site since it opened to the public on 23 July 2025.
“Tourism is extremely grateful to The Henry Euler Memorial Trust for its invaluable and generous support for the project. This support is helping to safeguard an important part of Alderney’s maritime heritage for future generations, while enhancing the island’s visitor experience and supporting our wider ambition to bring Alderney’s fascinating history to life.
We will bring further reports on the project as work progresses, during which time the Tower will remain open to the public every day, admission free.