Gournay en Bray

Description:

Introduction

Gournay en Bray is a busy little market town in the centre of the Pays de Bray in Seine Maritime, Upper Normandy.

Geography

The town is some 30 miles (48 km) east of Rouen, 80k (60m) north of Paris and 40k (25m) west of Beauvais. The River Epte, a tributary of the Seine, runs through the town.

Economy

The local economy is based on farming and light industry including engineering for the automotive industry.

Culture

The Collegiate Church of St Hildevert bears witness to the religious history of the town which also housed a Capucin monastery.  The town was clearly important from a military point of view in the light of the substantial defensive ramparts which are still evident.

Tourism

Although not a tourist centre as such, many visitors come for the excellent Tuesday and Friday markets which display local produce from the many small producers in the area as well as fish from Dieppe.

Worth a Visit

The Collegiate church of Saint-Hildevert, built in the 12th century and well known for its roman capitals, ornate decoration and its ancient religious sculptures. The town gates, ramparts and fortifications which date from the thirteenth century.

Sport and other activities

Gournay has a well supported gym and swimming pool; horse trotting races are held at the hippodrome on the edge of the town. There is trout fishing on the Epte and an archery club.