Jersey is an island shaped by the sea which may be small in size but certainly doesn’t hold back on personality.
Its miles of dramatic coastline hugging sandy beaches will captivate you, its quaint villages will charm you, and its mouth-watering cuisine will astound you.
The characterful little island is nearer to France than mainland Britain, nestled just 14 miles from its neighbour across the Channel. As you explore the width and breadth of Jersey, you’ll encounter French place names and a taste of the continent alongside British traditions such as afternoon tea and fish and chips. And with Jersey using British pounds as its currency, the familiarity of home is never far away.
When it comes to food, Jersey’s reputation is beyond compare. Every corner of the island is bursting with flavour: succulent oysters straight from the crystal-clear waters, Jersey Royal potatoes home-grown on the rich, fertile fields, and velvety ice cream made with milk from the iconic Jersey cow.
Once you’ve uncovered Jersey’s island specialities, your tastebuds will never be the same again. Eat home-made cake or fish and chips al fresco beside the sea, grab some pub grub in a cosy section of the island after a ramble along the coast, or dine in style at a renowned Michelin-starred or AA rosette-awarded restaurant.
Visit in late autumn to join in one of the Channel Islands’ most celebrated annual events: Tennerfest. You can sample a wide range of typical Jersey cuisine at reduced prices – a healthy appetite is essential!
Glimpses of Jersey’s long and colourful past are everywhere stretching from Neolithic times to the Second World War.
The Channel Islands were the only part of the British Isles occupied by the Nazis during World War II. Poignant reminders of this turbulent period in history are on display in the island’s museums.
Delve even deeper into Jersey’s hundreds of years’ worth of heritage by staying in a historical property: imposing forts, medieval castles, rustic towers or converted stables are all available to hire – the choice is yours.
Jersey is incredibly easy to get to; you can jet off for a well-deserved getaway to ‘the island break’ from more than 20 regional airports, including Stansted and Southend. Within an hour of leaving the UK, you could be toasting ‘cheers’ to your travelling buddy in a beachside kiosk or relaxing on the soft sand while your children whisk out their buckets and spades.
Activities galore
For an island that’s only 45 square miles, Jersey certainly knows how to pack in award-winning attractions onto its shores. Always fancied trying your hand at surfing? Hit the water with confidence following a taster lesson on St Ouen’s Beach.
Want to sample Jersey’s local food and drink? An exploration of vineyards, gardens and orchards go hand-in-hand with wine and preserve tastings at La Mare Wine Estate.
Have a passion for wildlife? Meet the furry residents of Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust (known as Jersey Zoo), commended for its inspirational work saving and breeding endangered species.
Cultural heritage is strong in Jersey, with numerous abbeys, churches, galleries, museums, castles and monuments gracing every inch of the island’s landscape.
Stories from the Second World War come to life in a gripping yet emotive way at Jersey War Tunnels, which highlights the story of the island’s five years under Nazi occupation.
There’s never a dull moment in the capital of St Helier. An eclectic mix of gift shops, boutiques and little cafes hidden down cobbled streets, surrounds its cosmopolitan harbour. Wander off the main squares to discover new neighbourhoods and enticing restaurants. Gain a better insight into Jersey’s heritage at Central and Beresford Street Markets, which have served the community for more than 200 years.
Golden sands, rocky headlands and concealed rock pools suddenly revealed at low tide await you at the 20-odd beaches spread across the island. Seek out hidden gems tucked away off the beaten track by hiring a car. Cycling and using one of the many walking trails are also fantastic ways to explore this amazingly diverse isle.
Greve de Lecq on the north coast is a winner for families, while adventurers will give a thumb up to St Ouen’s Bay, overlooked by the picturesque Corbiere Lighthouse at the far end.
We warned you that Jersey was big on personality!
Where to stay
It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for a family-friendly inn, a boutique hotel by the sea, or a luxurious manor away from the hustle and bustle of the capital, Jersey has it all. Families, couples, hen parties and solo travellers are well catered for – the toughest part is deciding where you want to rest your head.
Longueville Manor, St Saviour
A stunningly refurbished manor house and the Channel Islands’ most highly acclaimed hotel - and its only member of the exclusive Relais & Chateaux luxury collection. Longueville is one of Europe’s most celebrated hotels, boasting a historic oak-panelled restaurant, its own kitchen garden and cellar, and a revitalising mini spa. The resident manor dog may even pop over to say hello.
Radisson Blu Waterfront, St Helier
With stunning views over the marina and St Aubin’s Bay, the Radisson has an enviable location on St Helier’s waterfront. In summer, eat al fresco on the modern, spacious terrace, where you can see out to Elizabeth Castle. A health club with an indoor pool and sauna makes this 4-star hotel ideal for a stylish yet relaxing stay.
Merton Hotel, St Helier
Packed with entertainment, a children’s club and crèche, and an aquadome complete with waterslides and pools, this 3-star gem of a hotel is a family favourite. Spend your evenings enjoying a mix of tribute acts, magic shows and stand-up comedy. By day, ride on the unique FlowRider simulator, a combination of surfing, snowboarding and skateboarding – guaranteed to keep you busy for hours.
St Brelade’s Bay Hotel, St Brelade
Set in five acres of award-winning gardens, St. Brelade’s Bay Hotel sits opposite the beach with panoramic views across the water. The hotel has a warm and relaxed atmosphere and its own indoor leisure complex along with two outdoor pools and a tennis court, making it a perfect choice for a relaxing family break.
For more information on the largest of the Channel Islands, or to book your island getaway, please get in touch.