Victor Hugo's House

Born in France in 1802, the island’s most famous resident was the poet and writer Victor Hugo whose celebrated works include Notre Dame de Paris and Les Miérables, the latter which he actually completed in Guernsey. Hugo’s outspoken political views led to his expulsion from France and his arrival in Guernsey in 1855. The following year he published a collection of his poetry called Les Contemplations which was a big success. With the money it earned he bought Hauteville House which is now a popular visitor attraction on the island. Although legally entitled to return to France in 1859, he chose to reside on the island he adored until 1970 when Louis Bonaparte fell from power. Hauteville House is a large distinctive white building with a commanding position that overlooks the sea. Hugo was an avid collector of eccentric furniture and bric-a-brac and today visitors are able to wander through the house and grounds which has been preserved as it was when Hugo lived there.