It is also called ‘the white cottage’ due to its distinctive whitewashed walls and it was used as a landmark for sailors. The building was first mentioned in 1665 and was originally St. Peter’s Guard House and Magazine. La Caumine a Marie Best The site may have acquired its later name ‘La Caumine à Marie Best’, after it was used as a temporary home by Marie Best and her children during the smallpox epidemic of 1815. Mary Best died in 1832, and the property fell into decay. Le Don Hilton After World War I, the cottage was converted into a seaside bungalow, and was used as a base for holidaymakers. Captain John Hilton acquired the cottage in 1932. The cottage was donated to the Trust in 1975, along with four vergées of land, by Mrs. Marie Hilton, his widow. It is from Captain Hilton that the property is named. Alderney Sea Lavender The land surrounding the property is salt-drenched during stormy weather, creating ideal conditions for rare Alderney Sea Lavender. This plant is only known to grow along St. Ouen’s Bay, in Alderney and along the opposite coast of France. Common Thrift and Jersey Thrift are also found in the bay. Jersey Thrift does not reach the British Isles or the other Channel Islands. Back to our suggestions Click here to go to the Sunday website
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