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Guernsey

A Unique Way Of Life

Although very much part of the 21st century, Guernsey has retained a unique character and way of life based on a mixture of its Norman and British heritage. The language may be English and the currency sterling but the island has a distinctly French feel. Our restaurant, café and bar culture reflects that of our near neighbours - (France is less than 30 miles away).

There’s so much to explore in this lovely island where you are literally obliged to slow down as the maximum speed limit is 35mph - but then who would want to drive quickly with so much to see and do all around you?

Images of Guernsey

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Unforgettable Scenery

The island offers a combination of beautiful safe sandy beaches, secret coves and rock pools, rugged harbours, stunning cliffs and fantastic flora and fauna. Inland, there is a country heart that beats to the rhythm of the seasons. Sleepy lanes, private gardens, nature reserves and migrating birds are just some of the natural treasures waiting to be discovered. With a temperate climate and rare frosts, the islands are in bloom all year round.

Things to See and Do

Guernsey has numerous places of interest from the tiny wildlife reserve and the remains of a 12th century priory on Lihou Island to museums, family activity and craft centres, quaint tea rooms and top quality restaurants and the islands of Sark and Herm are only a short ferry ride away and Alderney is a plane hop.

The islands are made for those who like walking. Whether you’re after a slow stroll across the sands, or an energetic hike along cliff-top paths and into rocky coves, you can indulge your passion here!

Anglers, of course, are spoilt for choice and a host of high-level events from motor sports, power boating and athletics to bowling take place throughout the year.

History and Heritage

Guernsey history begins with Neolithic Man and some of the oldest manmade structures in Europe can be found here.

After forming part of Normandy from 933, the island decided to side with England in 1204 when King John lost Normandy to Phillippe Augustus of France.

The 20th has century also left its mark. The Second World War occupation by German forces has left a legacy of a labyrinth of fortifications, plus fascinating museums that vividly recreate the everyday life of the period.

Jersey

With its idyllic landscape and intriguing blend of British and continental influences, Jersey really is a very unique place.

The hospitality of the island's people is famed throughout the UK, making this the perfect place to relax and unwind. With opportunities aplenty to cycle, walk, play golf, indulge in water-sports, or simply enjoy the tax free shopping opportunities, there will certainly never be a dull moment.

Owing to its compact size (45 square miles), Jersey is the perfect place to explore, allowing you to pack a great deal of experiences into your break. The island is still very rural, with miles of un-spoilt countryside and woodlands teaming with wildflowers and many unusual species of birds, it is also a natural habitat for the red squirrel, now on decline in the UK. Some areas of particular interest are Les Quennevais Dunes, Les Landes and Le Lande du Ouest (Gorselands), which are all Sites of Special Interest for their ecological status. Those interested in conservation should head to Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, where you can meet over 1400 mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians set within acres of lush parkland.

Images of Jersey

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The Beaches and Wildlife

The Island is justifiably proud of its pristine beaches, sandy dunes, impressive cliffs and headlands, where the keen of eye may be lucky enough to spot puffins and razorbills. The rugged headlands of the region provide the ideal spot for photography, with spectacular views from La Corbiere, Vicard point and Le Col de la Rocque to name but a few. St Ouen's Bay is a wonderful five miles of sweeping sands, popular with the surfing community, whilst Saint Brelade's is possibly one of Jersey 's most popular beaches with plenty of amenities available for all the family. The more active visitor can take the cliff walk to Portelet Bay, a gorgeous beach from which you can walk to Janvrin's Tomb, and then work off all those ice creams on the cliff climb back! Jersey is famed for its temperate climate; therefore the island attracts visitors all year round.

Heritage

The Island is rich in cultural heritage, with some fine National Trust properties to discover; Le Moulin de Quetivel is the last remaining working mill in Jersey, dating from the 18th century and displaying a magnificent history of milling heritage alongside local archaeological finds. Hamptonne, Jersey 's country life museum consists of a small collection of historic houses, lovingly restored to their former glory. Other popular attractions include the Jersey Lavender Farm, the La Mare Vineyards and Distillery where you can sample the rather potent Jersey Apple Brandy and Elizabeth Castle in St Aubin's Bay. Mont Orgueil Castle, built in the thirteenth century, perches over the harbour at Gorey and is one of the best preserved castles in the UK The castle regularly hosts medieval re-enactments and provides incredible views across the sea to France.

Discover St Helier

St Helier, Jersey's capital is on the southern side of the island, and is named after Jersey's famous saint, whom legend has it, lived on the island in the 8th century. St Helier is a vibrant and affluent town with a distinct French twist, its stunning marina and harbour are always bustling, whilst the town centre has a huge variety of eateries and stores.