THE SMUGGLING
LEGACY OF THE PORTELET INN

Today, when we hear the term “smugglers,” we might think of the pub in Ouaisné Bay. However, over 170 years ago, the du Val family, former owners of the Old Portelet Inn, were involved in profitable yet illegal activities. The Portelet Inn, originally known as Portelet Farm, was purchased by Philippe du Val in 1834. Philippe’s son, Nicolas, lived in the house with his wife and six children, and was described as a farmer of 13 acres and a landed proprietor in the 1851 census. However, Nicolas had another source of income – smuggling alcohol and tobacco into Jersey.

During the 19th century, smuggling was a lucrative business for those who could avoid detection. Nicolas’ attempts to hide his smuggled goods in carts, cellars, and buried in the sand were just some of the methods used by mugglers to evade Customs agents. Unfortunately for Nicolas, it seems that the authorities were aware of his activities.

In one instance, Customs agents seized all of the liquor and carts and horses that Nicolas had smuggled. Although he was cautioned by the court and had to pay a penalty of £40 to retrieve his horses and carts, this did not deter him from trying to make extra money through smuggling. A few years later, in May 1860, Nicolas was convicted of smuggling tobacco with John Floyd (or Flood), John Finney, and Philip Baudains. The four men were ordered by the Commissioners of Customs to each pay a £100 fine, and the tobacco seized from the cutter Fly, in Portelet Bay was confiscated.

IN 1992, THE COMPANY
CEASED ITS BREWING
OPERATIONS

In 1992 Randalls shifted its focus towards modernising its public houses. This move was made to cater to the increased demand from customers and provide a wider range of food and beverage options, which have now become the mainstay for most public houses. Randalls undertook refurbishments of existing premises, adding children’s areas, entertainment, and welcoming new pubs to the group. The Admiral and Chambers were added in 1994, followed by Earl Grey at First Tower in 1998, and refurbishments at country pubs including The Goose, The Portelet Inn, Les Fontaines, The Pembroke, and La Pulente.

The company has accomplished several notable achievements in recent years, including the introduction of the Randalls Loyalty card in 2012, which has roven to be a great success. Additionally, the reopening of The Boat House has been warmly welcomed by customers, while the addition of new restaurants, such as The Anchor Club and, most recently, The Beach Club, has been a testament to the company’s commitment to providing customers with a diverse range of options to cater to all tastes.

Thank you

Dear valued customer,

As we celebrate 200 years of island life from 1823 to 2023, let us pay homage to Randalls and all that it represents. There is no one prouder than myself to be privileged and entrusted to lead this wonderful company into another colourful chapter of its glorious antiquity. This beloved institution has been a cornerstone of our community, providing both refreshment, nourishment and connection for generations. Its presence on our island has weathered countless storms and stood the test of time, becoming a symbol of resilience and strength. Our pubs and restaurants are not just outlets to offer drink and food, they are the hubs of our community. They provide a welcome escape to many, a place where some have the comfort of simply being able to talk to someone, keeping warm or just able to watch the TV.

Randalls has witnessed the evolution of our island, from its humble beginnings to the eclectic mix it now offers today. Through it all, it has remained a constant source of comfort, offering a warm welcome and a hot meal to all who enter its doors. Its walls hold the stories of our community, and its tables have witnessed countless conversations, debates, and celebrations.

Let us also pause to remember that is not just the folk on one side of the bar that offers character to our wonderful pubs, it is also the wonderful staff behind the scenes who complement and service our outlets every day of the year. The greatest asset of any organisation and to each and everyone one of you, I sincerely thank you for the individual efforts and qualities you bring to Randalls.

As we honour Randalls and the legacy it has built over the past two centuries, we also look to the future with excitement and hope. We know that this institution will continue to be a vital part of our community for many years to come, providing sustenance, support, and a sense of belonging to all who need it.

So let us raise a glass to Randalls, and to all that it represents. Here’s to 200 years of island life, and to the many more that lie ahead.

Gavin Reid

Managing Director