Things to see and do in Jersey

Attractions in Jersey

Castles

Jersey has two castles that are well worth a visit. The first is Elizabeth Castle, built on a rocky islet a mile off the coast of St Helier. Famous residents and visitors of the Castle include Sir Walter Raleigh and King Charles II. The Castle is accessible on foot at low tide or by the Castle Ferry at high or low tide.

Mont Orgueil Castle, on the eastern side of the island, has been defending Jersey throughout history, particularly from 1200 to 1600 when the French forces were keen to attack Jersey. The views from the Castle are also magnificent.

Cycling

Jersey is good to explore on two wheels. There are numerous cycle routes, as well as "Green Lanes" which give priority to pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders (and cars must slow to 15mph or 24kph).

Dining

Jersey may be compact but it has a long list of quality pubs and award-winning restaurants. Come to feast on seafood fresh off the boat and produce harvested from the fields. When it comes to drinks, La Mare is the only wine estate on the island, producing red, white, rose and sparkling wines, as well as spirits.

Jersey War Tunnels

In 1941, German forces came to Jersey. Wanting to fortify Jersey, they ordered some 5,000 slave labourers to dig a vast network of underground tunnels. Today, a section of the tunnels is open to the public, telling the touching story of Jersey's occupation.

Jersey Zoological Park

Founded in 1959 by Gerald Durrell, the Jersey Zoo still engages in immense conservation efforts, saving the most threatened species. The Zoo has successfully bred many rare bats and primates, and some animals residing at the Zoo are part of a breeding program that aims to release them back into the wild.

Museums

Jersey has a few outstanding museums. The Channel Island Military Museum charts the history of the five years of German occupation. The Maritime Museum is about the island's seafaring past. The Jersey Museum & Art Gallery explores the history from 250,000 years ago through to more recent events.

Swimming

Jersey isn't short of great beaches. Top swimming spots include St Brelade's Bay, Grève de Lecq, Plémont Bay and St Ouen's Bay. Havre des pas is a child-friendly lido just a few minutes from the centre of St Helier.

Walking

Wherever you are in Jersey, you're wonderfully close to nature. Recommended walking routes include St Lawrence Parish Walk (which intersects both the Hamptonne Museum and Jersey War Tunnels), St Catherine's Breakwater to Gorey Pier (with stunning views across to France), and the Windmill to Grosnez Castle Ruins to watch the sunset.

Tourist offices

Jersey Tourism

Mon-Sun 0900-1630