We have outlined a number of interesting attractions and places to visit for visitors to the Channel Islands, these include:
The Guernsey Museum and Art Gallery is located in the pleasure garden in St Peter Port. The museum first opened back in 1978, there are displays showing the history of the island and artefacts from the Victorian collectors, shown in a Victorian inspired gallery. There is a changing programme of temporary exhibitions in the Lukis Room, Brian White Gallery and the Rona Cole Gallery. There is a programme of concerts that take place on the terrace from May to September, if visiting it is best to check the latest times. There is also a gift shop that sells a selection of souvenirs.
Hamptonne Country Life Museum gives visitors an insight into three centuries of Jersey's rural history and heritage, there are characters from history who will demonstrate skill of yesteryear and take visitors on guided tours to learn more. You can explore the buildings and take a leisurely walk around the meadows and kitchen garden. There are stories told about what life was like back in the 16th century. Hamptonne was opened to the public in 1993 after archaeological investigation and restoration of some of the buildings. A number of environmental exhibits are due to be added, there is a woodland walkway, a wildlife pond and a wildflower garden in this picturesque setting.
Elizabeth Castle is in St Aubin's Bay, the castle has defended Jersey for 300 years right from the civil war to the German occupation. The castle is surrounded by the sea for seven hours out of every twelve. The site has several exhibitions and military collections as well as the rocky home of the sixth century hermit, St Helier, after which the capital of Jersey is named. In order to reach the castle visitors can walk across the causeway at when the tide is low or catch the DUKW ferry.
The Shell Garden in Jersey, is a unique attraction that began in 1957 and is currently the largest in the world of its kind and features over a million locally collected mollusk shells. The garden had humble beginnings and has grown markedly since, there is a sense of peace and tranquillity making it a special place to visit. There is an abundance of shells in Jersey, so the garden continues to flourish with the addition of Jersey ormers, emperor scallops, and common cockles among others. There is a shell shop with a wide range of handmade shell gifts, there is also an extensive range of natural shells, both local and from other parts of the world.
Durrell Wildlife Park (Jersey Zoo) is one of the most popular attractions on the island. The zoo is called the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust (Durrell) after its founder Gerald Durrell. It has been described as a zoo that is not a zoo referring to the natural environment and habitat the animals live. Durrell Wildlife Park has a reputation at being at the forefront of many conservation projects, it has allowed scientists can work with the animals and learn what they need to stay healthy, breed, survive and thrive in their natural habitats.
The zoo aims to place animals in specially landscaped, spacious enclosures which closely resemble their natural homes whenever this is possible. There are a range of animals to see here and makes for a fun family trip.
The Jersey Lavender Farm is a working lavender farm that has a shop and a tearoom. The farm houses a large collection of lavender, the team grow, harvest and distil lavender, for use in their range of products. There are over 50 different varieties of lavender and visitors can see and smell these fragrant fields from June to August. Visitors can also learn more about the process of extracting the oil in the distillery and tour the beautiful garden, which includes a nature trail. In the tearoom visitors can enjoy some tea and cakes that are made from fresh local ingredients. The shop sells a wide selection of bath oils, lotions and even edible lavender products and books.
Arts aficionados will enjoy the Jersey Arts Centre located in St Helier. The arts centre promotes all the arts, from theatre to fine arts to dance. The building contains an air-conditioned theatre, with great visibility. At the Berni Gallery & Bar Gallery you can view an eclectic selection of constantly changing exhibitions, currently this can be viewed for free. Visitors can relax in the bar area with a beverage and be inspired by the art work on show. The Art Centre has a number of rooms for hire these include meeting rooms and an art studio. The Art Centre runs a wide array of art, craft, music, language and theatre courses and workshops and is aimed at all age groups.
It is recommended that prior to visiting the Channel Islands; visitors do their research and ensure any sights and attractions they plan on visiting are actually open on the days you intend on coming.
The Channel Islands with its tranquil setting and scenic environment offers visitors a popular holiday and short breaks destination. There is plenty for visitors to discover on the islands with a mix of European cultures evident and charming towns and villages including plenty of picturesque locations and a scenic landscape to enjoy. There is the towns of St Helier in Jersey and St Peter Port in Guernsey both offering visitors a good base from which to explore the area along with their own town attractions.
Disclaimer: The information given in on this website is given in good faith and to the best of our knowledge. If there are any discrepancies in no way do we intend to mislead. Important travel details and arrangements should be confirmed and verified with the relevant authorities.
