Salt Granaries, Honfleur
Historic Building in Honfleur
The Salt Granaries are one of the top attractions in Honfleur, standing as powerful reminders of the town's economic and maritime legacy. Built in 1670 to store up to 10,000 tonnes of salt, these vast warehouses played a crucial role in preserving cod bound for Newfoundland and other fishing grounds. Their strategic location near the port and their sturdy construction-stone repurposed from old city walls and massive oak frames crafted by shipwrights-make the granaries one of the must-see places in Honfleur for visitors curious about local history.
Today, only two of the original three granaries remain, beautifully restored and transformed into cultural spaces. Often visited on walking tours of Honfleur, the buildings now host exhibitions, concerts, theatre performances, and community events, offering one of the best places to see in the Salt Granaries for those who appreciate atmospheric venues filled with heritage and creativity.
Table of Contents
- History and Significance of the Salt Granaries
- Things to See and Do in the Salt Granaries
- How to Get to the Salt Granaries
- Practical Tips on Visiting the Salt Granaries
- Where to Stay close to the Salt Granaries
- Is the Salt Granaries Worth Visiting?
- FAQs for Visiting the Salt Granaries
- Nearby Attractions to the Salt Granaries
History and Significance of the Salt Granaries
The Salt Granaries were constructed during a period when Honfleur thrived as a major fishing and trading port. Salt was essential for preserving cod caught on long voyages to Newfoundland, and these granaries provided the capacity needed to support the town's booming maritime economy. Their location near the water ensured seamless loading and unloading of ships.
Marine carpenters used their shipbuilding skills to create the towering oak frames, giving the structures both durability and a distinct maritime character. The use of stone from dismantled city walls not only added strength but also reflected Honfleur’s practical adaptation of existing materials.
Although one granary was lost over time, the remaining two stand as impressive symbols of Honfleur’s past. Their continued preservation highlights the importance of maritime history in shaping the town’s cultural identity.
Things to See and Do in the Salt Granaries
Inside the granaries, visitors can admire the soaring timber beams and the cavernous interior spaces that once stored mountains of salt. These architectural features alone are worth exploring, offering insight into 17th-century engineering and craftsmanship.
The granaries now serve as dynamic cultural venues hosting rotating exhibitions, concerts, theatre performances, and conferences. Depending on the time of year, visitors may encounter contemporary art displays, photography exhibits, or musical events that transform the historic setting into a lively creative hub.
Guided-tours are sometimes available, providing deeper context on the granaries' construction, their role in cod preservation, and their significance in Honfleur's maritime economy. Attending an event here is one of the things to do in Honfleur for those seeking an enriching blend of history and culture.
How to Get to the Salt Granaries
Most travellers arrive in Honfleur via Deauville-Normandie Airport, which offers domestic and limited international connections and sits a short drive from the town. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Honfleur on Booking.com.
Honfleur does not have its own railway station, but nearby Deauville-Trouville Station provides frequent train services from Paris Saint-Lazare and other Normandy cities. From the station, buses, taxis, and shuttles offer simple onward travel. You can use SNCF Connect to check schedules, compare routes, and purchase tickets for National (SNCF ) and regional trains (TER). For a more streamlined experience, we recommend using Omio, which allows you to easily compare prices, schedules, and book tickets for both National and Regional travel across all of Europe, all in one place.
The Salt Granaries are easy to reach by car, with Honfleur connected by major regional roads and motorways. Several public car parks are located within walking distance of the town centre and the granaries. If you are looking to rent a car in France I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.
Practical Tips on Visiting the Salt Granaries
- Entrance fee: Free (externally viewing); events may charge.
- Opening hours: 24 Hours
- Suggested tips: Check event schedules in advance to catch exhibitions or performances during your visit.
- Best time to visit: Evenings are ideal when concerts or cultural events are held.
- How long to spend: About 30-60 minutes, depending on exhibitions or events.
- Accessibility: Large interior spaces with level floors; some areas may vary depending on event setup.
- Facilities: Nearby cafés, shops, and public conveniences are available around the town centre.
- Photography tip: Capture the granaries’ façade in the soft morning or late-afternoon light.
- Guided tours: Occasionally offered, especially during heritage events or festival periods.
- Nearby food options: Restaurants and bistros around the harbour and town centre provide excellent dining choices.
Where to Stay close to the Salt Granaries
Staying near the Salt Granaries keeps you close to Honfleur's cultural and historic heart. A boutique option is Les Maisons de Léa, offering charm and comfort in a central location. For a luxury stay with a serene setting, consider La Ferme Saint Simeon, known for its beautiful views and artistic heritage. Another convenient choice is Hôtel L’Ecrin, an elegant hotel a short stroll from the harbour and cultural venues.
Is the Salt Granaries Worth Visiting?
Yes, the Salt Granaries are absolutely worth visiting. Their blend of maritime history, striking architecture, and contemporary cultural programming make them an essential stop in Honfleur. Whether you're fascinated by historic craftsmanship or enjoy attending creative events in unique venues, the granaries offer a rewarding and atmospheric experience.
What Other Travellers Say...
Les Greniers à Sel, at 9T Rue de la ville in Honfleur, is a rustic exhibition hall praised for its impressive interior—notably a roof structure resembling a boat hull supported entirely by wooden beams—and it hosts art shows, photo and model displays, and local artisanal events such as a glass fair and sailors' festival; entry has been described as free and the venue is a good place to discover artists' work and regional products, though interior renovation and occasional events mean the space can be changing.
FAQs for Visiting the Salt Granaries
Nearby Attractions to the Salt Granaries
- Vieux Bassin (Old Port): Honfleur's iconic waterfront lined with colourful timbered buildings.
- Sainte-Catherine Church: A unique wooden church shaped by shipbuilders after the Hundred Years' War.
- La Lieutenance: A historic fortification gateway now housing the maritime heritage centre.
- Eugène Boudin Museum: Home to Impressionist works and Norman ethnographic collections.
- Jardin du Tripot: A peaceful riverside garden tucked behind the old town.
The Salt Granaries appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Honfleur!
Moira & Andy
Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!
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Planning Your Visit
24 Hours
Free (externally viewing); events may charge.
Nearby Attractions
- Manoir de Roncheville (0.1) km
Historic Building - Musée de la Marine (0.1) km
Museum - Museum of Ethnography & Norman Popular Art (0.1) km
Museum - The Vieux Bassin (0.1) km
Port - Jardin du Tripot (0.1) km
Gardens - La Lieutenance (0.2) km
Historic Building - Saint-Léonard Church (0.2) km
Church - Church of Sainte-Catherine (0.2) km
Church - Eugène Boudin Museum (0.4) km
Museum - Les Maisons Satie (0.5) km
Museum
