Jersey

Travel Guide
St Ouen showing a beach, a coastal town and landscape views
Breathtaking countryside, beaches, centuries-old castles and a distinct cuisine make this one of the most appealing destinations of the British Channel Islands.

Jersey, the largest of the Channel Islands, is a destination to discover at a leisurely pace. This island of sweeping coastlines and picturesque countryside is interspersed by quaint villages and medieval landmarks. Jersey is a British-ruled island, although is actually closer to the coast of France than England.

At just 9 miles (14 kilometers) wide and 5 miles (8 kilometers) long, it’s a great place to explore on foot or by bike. St. Helier, the island capital, is the center of activity. Find museums that expertly retrace the island’s maritime and smuggling heritage.

Many people visit Jersey to discover its varied landscapes, ranging from rolling green meadows to dramatic coastlines and secluded bays. Hike through the scenic woodland of Fern Valley north of St. Helier. Relax on the pristine southern beaches of St. Brelade’s Bay and St. Aubin.

On the western shore, Les Mielles Nature Reserve has myriad birdlife and picturesque walking trails. Explore the rugged dunes at St. Ouen’s Bay, a beach popular with surfers and kite-surfers. Go to the northern coast and walk across the cliffs at La Gréve de Lecq. Alternatively, visit the traditional fishing villages of Bonne Nuit Bay and Rozel.

The area’s 800-year history has created a legacy of significant landmarks. Visit the 16th-century Elizabeth Castle, the former home of English explorer, Sir Walter Raleigh. Admire the hilltop fortress, Mont Orgueil, which protected the island from French invasion. Hear stories of German occupation during World War II at the Jersey War Tunnels.

Jersey has much to offer in terms of cuisine and makes great use of local produce. Sample scallops at Bouley Bay and oysters at Grouville. Come in May and June to see farmers harvesting the famous Jersey Royal potatoes or visit in July for the Jersey Fish Festival.

Reach Jersey by catching a ferry from the south coast of England or from northwest France. Once here, everything is within a 30-minute drive away. Quiet roads allow for easygoing vacations.

Popular cities in Jersey

Elizabeth Castle featuring a castle as well as an individual male
St. Helier
Known for Friendly people, Dining and Bars
The largest of the Channel Islands and the capital of Jersey is a busy port town home to museums, forts, markets and beaches.

Reasons to visit

  • Port of Jersey
  • St. Helier Central Market
  • Elizabeth Castle
Parish Church of St. Brelade which includes a sandy beach, a coastal town and general coastal views
St. Brelade
Known for Friendly people, Beaches and Dining
Admire the sense of seclusion and tranquility as you visit this area’s medieval chapel and sandy strand. Find more action at the forest adventure center.

Reasons to visit

  • Corbiere Lighthouse
  • Parish Church of St. Brelade
Hamptonne Country Life Museum which includes a house, a park and heritage elements
St. Lawrence
Known for Friendly people, Dining and Bars
Magnificent St. Matthews Glass Church decorates the terrain of this large parish, whose underground is carved up by an extensive labyrinth of war tunnels.

Reasons to visit

  • Jersey War Tunnels - German Underground Hospital
  • Hamptonne Country Life Museum
La Hougue Bie which includes heritage elements
St. Saviour
Known for Dining, Friendly people and Family-friendly
Romantic St. Saviour awaits: its food, entertainment, gardens, and more!

Reasons to visit

  • Howard Davis Park
  • La Hougue Bie
Jersey Zoological Park showing heritage elements
Trinity
Known for Dining, Friendly people and Bars
Experience the rural flavor of Jersey in a peaceful parish known for its family attractions, scenic coastline and charming villages.

Reasons to visit

  • Jersey Zoo
  • Durrell Wildlife Park
St Ouen showing general coastal views, landscape views and a coastal town
St Ouen
Known for Museums and Historical
Barracks and memorials are among the reminders of war scattered across the parish of the Grey Bellies, whose churches and beaches complete the picture.

Reasons to visit

  • Grosnez Castle

Jersey