Tourist Attractions & Monuments Channel Islands

In the hollow of the bay, you can see the islet of Guerdain, topped by a tower, known as "Janvrin's tomb". Philippe Janvrin, a sailor from Saint-Brelade, was approaching the coast when the plague broke out on board his ship. The authorities decided to quarantine the ship offshore. When he died, he was buried on this islet. The promontory of Portelet is also a nature reserve. In addition to the grandiose nature, it is an archaeological site. Excavations have brought to light the remains of Neanderthals, mammoths and rhinoceroses.

Noirmont Point is the southernmost point on the island of Jersey. Beyond its superb view, this promontory is also a War Museum. This open-air spot, displays heavy artillery pieces from various eras. The promontory also bears three observation towers built by the Germans during the Second World War, as well as the Lothringen artillery battery. The latter was part of the famous Atlantic Wall, the set of coastal fortifications built by the Third Reich to defend itself.

In this very extensive area of dunes, at the back of the very popular and visited bay of Saint-Ouen, one can observe a series of menhirs: the Trois Rocques, the Grand, the Petit Menhir and the Menhir Brisé and, at their heart, a burial chamber where the bones of about twenty people were found, presumably, during the excavations that brought the site to light in 1922. This megalithic site can be the occasion for a walk inland in a corner of the island where people come mostly for iodine-filled walks along the coast.

The Quétivel Mill is a water mill that was built in the 14th century. It was carefully restored by the National Trust for Jersey in 1978. The restoration of the water wheel has made it a living monument to the island's heritage. It is the last one in operation in Jersey. And what about the decor, which seems to come straight out of a children's book illustration? Charming. All around, the woods and meadows of St. Peter's Valley also invite you to take a delightful bucolic stroll.

Les Monts Grantez is a gallery dolmen in the commune of Saint-Ouen. This megalithic monument has been dated to the Middle Neolithic (between 4000 and 3250 BC). If it has lost its main table, it is still relatively imposing. This dolmen was discovered in 1839 and the excavations date back to 1912. Eight skeletons, animal remains and a beautiful variety of pottery were also found. It is a site with a rather intriguing atmosphere. A beautiful mystical walk in perspective, especially if the fog is of the part.

The Channel Islands Military Museum is a very interesting military museum where British and German military equipment - including a machine to decode secret messages - dating from the Second World War is displayed. A collection composed of hundreds of pieces and which is installed in a large restored German bunker. At the time, it was part of the Atlantic Wall, the defense system designed by Adolf Hitler. A very instructive visit.

This is a charming little chapel adjoining the church of Saint-Brélade and built around the 12th century. Inside, one can observe wall frescoes from the 14th and 15th centuries, partly covered at the time of the Reformation. The chapel is built of large pebbles bound with a mortar of crushed shells and mixed with sea water. The stone roof was raised in the 14th century. To this day, it is not known if the name of the chapel (Fisherman) refers to Jersey fishermen or if the term was used to refer to fishermen.

This long beach is dominated by gentle hills where pretty manors are scattered here and there. It is really nice and, when the weather is (very) good, you can see France in the distance. For swimming, it is better to go there at low tide for safety reasons. Otherwise, kayaking and sailing are particularly popular activities in the bay. It is bounded on the south by the Archirondel tower (1794) and on the north by a long jetty which advances towards the sea. The jetty, very popular with anglers, is long and can be the object of a nice little stroll. It protects some boats (but also geese and ducks!). At its entrance, not far from the popular Breakwater Café and the parking lot, you will notice a plaque commemorating the exploit of a young Jersey man who swam around the island. This Victorian jetty was one of the elements of one of the two large naval bases of the islands (the other is in Alderney). The purpose was to face a possible French attack coming from Cherbourg. Construction began in 1847 and quickly became a financial drain. Before becoming useless anyway, militarily speaking. The second pier, which was to start from the Archirondel tower and close the bay, was never built. The Sainte-Catherine's Breakwater was completed in 1855... but proved to be unsuitable to receive warships. It was to be the largest port on the south side of the English Channel after Le Havre.

The tourist office is located in front of the port in a massive gray granite building built in 1911. We strongly advise you to visit it as the information given is numerous and the staff very helpful. Innumerable brochures of tourist and practical information of the islands of the Bailiff are at your disposal or proposed on request. Cyclists, hikers, culture lovers, do not hesitate to ask for practical information, it seems that there are answers to everything here! Warm welcome.

The company's coaches offer to take you to the island's main attractions - including The Little Chapel, Pleinmont and Rousse Tower - on a popular half-day tour (approx. 3.5 hours) that will allow you to get to know the whole island of Guernsey. Depending on the time of year, other options include full-day tours or cruises to the island of Herm. Please note that tours can be customized. Please inquire.

The dolmen of Mont Ubé is a Neolithic corridor tomb. This dolmen dates back to 4000 BC and was discovered and excavated in 1848. At the time of its discovery, we also found vases, tools, axes, a polished stone pendant and... human bones. It is presented as a gallery passage, with lateral niches in the burial chamber. It is today partially destroyed. But prehistory enthusiasts will have to go there to discover what remains of the dolmen. Notice to the amateurs!

The parish church of Grouville is absolutely charming and is one of the oldest on the island of Jersey. The first church in Grouville dates back to 1035, but local historians believe it to be even older. One of the most remarkable features of the church is the double-vessel baptismal font. A church to be seen if one walks in the village of Grouville. There is also a peaceful little cemetery adjacent to the church.

The church of St. Clement, the smallest parish in the island of Jersey, is located along the A5 road and was already in existence in the early 17th century. Still standing, it has since undergone extensive restoration work in the 19th century. These works have brought to light beautiful medieval murals, including one depicting the archangel St. Michael slaying a dragon. This is the main interest of this church which doesn't necessarily look like it from the outside. Don't hesitate to enter!

The church and adjacent cemetery dominate the beach. Founded in the ^11th century, during the Norman period, the church has expanded over the years. This is the reason for its somewhat motley architecture, which makes it all the more charming. The interior features a pre-Reformation baptismal font. The nave and choir date from the Romanesque period. The altar stone dates from the ^13th century. The cemetery is considered one of the most beautiful marine cemeteries in the world. It is magnificently embellished by immense oak trees. It's an enchanting place.

Coronation Park, also known as Millbrook Park, is a public garden with a large collection of plants, a beautiful Victorian shelter and a nice playground for children. It is a quiet and pleasant place just a stone's throw from the sea. It is typically British, down to the smallest detail: traditional, practical. A commemorative plaque specifies that the place was donated by a lady to celebrate the coronation of George VI in 1937. A good option for a walk that changes a little from the beach.

Here's a magnificent three-century-old group of rough-hewn stone farm buildings surrounded by meadows. Unlike ordinary farmers who, as they grew richer, destroyed their old houses to build bigger ones, these farmers built their farm buildings side by side. Inside, you can visit this reconstructed past. The buildings include 2 thatched cottages, a distillery, a bakery, a laundry and stables.

A pleasant maritime garden where greenery is quite rare, but where you can see a sculpture by the artist Philip Jackson, representing a group of swimmers and dolphins. Children will have fun in summer around the fountain with its jumping jets. You can also eat at the very good café La Frégate in the shape of an overturned boat. You can also enjoy a panoramic view of the Elizabeth Castle. It is a starting point for a walk on the beach or the marina and the favourite meeting place of the young people of the city on Saturday afternoon.

It is easily identifiable, thanks to its large white dome that covers the hill overlooking the city center. It was King Edward VI who decided in 1550 that a fort should be built on this strategic hill. The aim was to provide the island with a defensive fort, a place of retreat for the inhabitants in case of invasion. But in the end, it would be a long time before the fort was built, long after the fortresses of Gorey and Elizabeth Castle. The plans for the Regent were drawn up during the Napoleonic Wars (there was a fear of invasion by Napoleon's troops) by John Hambly Humphrey. The beginning of the work was delayed for financial reasons. The fort was nevertheless built between 1806 and 1814 and named Regent, in honor of the Prince Regent of the time who would later become George IV.

The defensive system included towers, batteries, ramparts, arsenals and barracks. All this... for nothing. Because before its completion, the battle of Waterloo put an end to the reign of "the one for whom" the fort had been built: Napoleon. The British troops nevertheless remained there until 1928.

After the departure of the military, the islanders did not know what to do with this immense building that dominates the city. In the 1970s, it was finally transformed into a temple of sports and leisure. Swimming pool, tennis, gym, games, auditorium, etc., and always a beautiful view on the city and the sea. There are also promenades.

The right wing of this building, which houses the States, was built at the end of the 19th century, as was the left wing, which houses, on the first floor, the very interesting session room of the States. It is a small amphitheatre with three rows of seats, a hemicycle with oak panelling. Framed texts are affixed on both sides of the seats. These are the addresses offered to the King of England during his visits to the island. The Jersey Parliament, the States Assembly, administers its own particular affairs in a completely autonomous manner according to age-old traditions. While foreign policy and defence matters are managed by London, the Island can refuse to comply with any measure if it feels its independence and interests are threatened. Like Guernsey, it had refused to become part of the European Union. There was no question of harmonising with other European countries a tax system that had made and still makes it rich. All members of Parliament are elected by universal suffrage for a term of 3 to 6 years, and none of them is expected to represent a political party. The Parliament is composed of 12 representatives of the parishes, 10 senators and 29 deputies. They each participate in the various committees in charge of the different areas of the island's administration. The Lieutenant-Governor and the Legal Advisers are appointed by the Crown. The Bailiff is appointed for life by the King or Queen.

This small granite church with its rural Norman appearance was founded around the ^11th century. Over the ages, this place of worship has also served as an arsenal and warehouse. As parishioners grew and architectural styles changed, the church was repeatedly enlarged. In the ^14th century, the roof was raised and flamboyant Gothic stained-glass windows were installed. Originally a Catholic church, it was transformed into a Protestant temple after the Reformation. Inside, numerous commemorative plaques cover the walls.

The Royal Court was built later than the State building, in 1856. It sits every two months for criminal trials. The courtroom includes, like ours, a courtroom, boxes for lawyers and clerks, and a gallery for the public. However, there was also a bench for the lords, as a result of the feudal system.

Two sessions are very important for the perpetuation of the feudal system of the island, the Assises d'Héritage (the Thursday following May 4 and the Thursday preceding October 11), because the lords of the manors of each parish must "appear": if the holder of the fiefdom fails to answer the call 4 times, the fiefdom is confiscated for the benefit of the king. On the fateful day, all the lords took their places on the bench. The Court was presided over by the Bailiff, assisted by 12 jurats. The island's lieutenant-governor was also present with his entire staff. Halberdiers stood guard. The attorney general then calls out the names of the fiefs. Each lord rose in turn and replied, "I keep my day," reaffirming his allegiance to the Duke of Normandy. The bishop of Coutances and the abbot of Mont-Saint-Michel were then called. This time, it was the lieutenant-governor who answered. No lord has ever failed to answer the call and it will be so until the end of time. If you are passionate about this institution, read Roger Vercel's excellent book(Les Iles Anglo-Normandes, Albin Michel, 1956). His descriptions of the ceremonies are a delight!

The Jersey Maritime Museum is absolutely brilliant. Don't miss it under any circumstances! For once, the public is allowed to touch the exhibits and you can have a great time. It's very playful, very amusing and there are explanations in French. The museum presents absolutely all the facets of the maritime life of the island, without forgetting any: the phenomena of the tides, the currents and the winds; the tools of the marine carpenter; the flora and the fauna; models of boats and one of the rorqual whale, a miniature replica of the one that ran aground on the coasts in 1910, an illustration of the various marine knots, the inevitable sailors' songs and so on. On certain days, you will also be able to see craftsmen making wooden models. Children will also be able to sail model ships in basins where a small fan inflates the sails as the wind would. On the deck of the Orient Star, where there is a giant earth mobile, you will smell the dried fish, gunpowder and heavy steam of the ships of the time and even listen to the song of the whales... Don't hesitate to press all the buttons and open the doors of the small wall cabinets. Here, it is really possible to touch everything! Also not to be missed, just next door is the Occupation Tapestry Gallery with beautiful, richly decorated panels woven for the 50th anniversary of the Liberation.

The transition from the Maritime Museum to this gallery offers a striking contrast! We leave a playful atmosphere to enter a very solemn one. This tapestry originally had 12 panels, made by the 12 parishes of the island on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the Liberation, and which told the story of Jersey under the German occupation. A 13th, woven by local artist Wayne Audrain, was added for the 70th anniversary.

This is a beautiful fortress(Stutzpunkt Rotenstein by its German name) dating from the time of the German occupation (and renovated since) which was supposed to guard the north of Vazon Bay as part of the Atlantic Wall. To the north, you will see the Martello Tower built in 1804. It is still possible to see remains of the original red granite fort. An interesting visit to imagine the living conditions of the Germans in a bunker.

In the heart of the beautiful park of Saumarez, this small ethnographic museum of the peasantry has been installed in a 19th century granite building. Several old interiors have been reconstructed, with mannequins in situation: a Victorian kitchen, a living room, a bedroom, a child's room, a dairy and a laundry room. You will see an 1896 waxing machine and a 1905 vacuum cleaner, old tools and traditional costumes. A playful visit.

Please don't confuse it with Sausmarez Manor! They are not at all located in the same parish. This is Saumarez Park. It boasts numerous trees, a Japanese garden, a bamboo alley and a rose garden. Every summer, the park hosts the Battle of the Flowers, the Viaër Marchi (old market) festival and the donkey derby. Children can play on large lawns and watch the ducks in the middle of a pond. There's also a playground and a café. It's a wonderful place to relax.

There does not remain about it today more large-thing, but this fortress has a long history. Only the thick walls today are recognized. Its initial interest was to sit enthroned in the center of an island placed strategically well. This island is not today any more, water were driven out. The hill of the island was seems it occupied since the iron age with a fort going back to 600 av. J. - C. the medieval fort goes back him to 1400. Hutments were added to the 18th century (for the wars vis-a-vis the French) before being destroyed by the Germans in 1945.

Both a fortress and a three-story watchtower (which offers a superb view of the coastline from its top), the imposing Rousse Tower was built in the 19th century to defend the island of Guernsey from a possible French invasion and has since been fully restored and is equipped with replicas of five cannons. Even if today it is closed to the public for rehabilitation, one can take advantage of a walk in this beautiful corner of the island to have a look at it from the outside. Before you can enjoy it again.

Located at the place called L'Ancresse, this dolmen is a place of worship of 12 meters in length which also dates from the Middle Neolithic period (around 4500 years B.C.). Discovered in 1977, the tumulus, delimited by granite blocks and dry stone walls, has been partly reconstructed. During the excavations, more than 35,000 remains were found on the site, such as flints, ornaments, tools and numerous pieces of pottery. Some of these remains are on display at the Guernsey Museum in St. Peter Port.

North of the Fouaillages, at the top of a small hill overlooking Pembroke Bay, the dolmen of La Varde is a remarkable megalithic structure. It is a covered walkway dating from the Neolithic era, 11 meters long and one of the most impressive on the island. It was discovered in 1811 and dates back to 2500 BC. During the excavations, human bones, flints, stone tools and numerous pieces of pottery were also discovered. A site that we strongly advise to discover during a walk.

Lihou is a 20-hectare island connected to Guernsey by a paved causeway that is covered by high tide. It is part of Guernsey's nature conservation program. The rock is a favorite stopover for migratory birds and home to an abundance of marine life. You will also find many species of seaweed, anemones, starfish, crabs and fish. The causeway can only be crossed at low tide. Ask the tourist office for opening hours and a tide table.

The museum's collections evoke the various aspects of daily life and multiple difficulty with which the civilians were confronted during the Second World War and the island was occupied by the German army. Here, it is a question of showing the history, thanks to a large collection of objects including weapons, equipment of communication, letters of denunciation or even a diary… It is very well done and very informative.

Located at the place called Catioroc, the dolmen of Trépied is a corridor tomb, with a V shape. Even today, it is well preserved although almost buried, situated in a very beautiful setting on a hillock perched above the Perelle Bay. A legend tells that in the 17th century, the witches and magicians of the island of Guernsey used to meet there regularly to celebrate their black masses, which usually took place on Fridays at night. The dolmen dates back to the beginning of the Neolithic period.

This late 14th century chapel is dedicated to Saint Apolline. According to the Book of Saints, the deaconess of Alexandria (who died in 249) threw herself into the pyre that had been prepared for her, rather than deny Christ. Legend has it that they even pulled out all her teeth. No wonder she is the patron saint of dentists! The chapel was abandoned and became a stable. The frescoes that it seems to have sheltered were destroyed. The State bought it in 1973 and undertook its restoration. It was returned to its original purpose in 1978.

Rebuilt after being destroyed by a storm, the site of Perelle Battery, a short distance from Fort Richmond, is interesting because it shows how, at the beginning of the 18th century, the oldest military batteries (it was built in 1816) were reinforced for a better protection of the island of Guernsey. Perelle Battery has two twenty-pound cannons. It can in any case be the object of a nice walk on a nice day. And the panorama offered by this historical site is superb.

It's the largest church in the countryside, and the one that most closely resembles the Town Church of Saint-Peter-Port. Its location is quite impressive, overlooking a deep valley dotted with megaliths, including a Christianized menhir. The shape of a cross has been deeply incised into it. Also on display are leather mugs dating from 1830, which were used for collecting money. The poor box dates from the ^17th century.

Torteval's first church was demolished in 1816. It is possible that a sacred fountain once stood on this site. As the parish's resources were limited, its inhabitants were unable to contribute as much as they had hoped to keep the building in good repair. The States of Guernsey subsidized part of the renovation. Originally designed in the "Calvinist" style, the church was later given an "Anglican" appearance, recognizable by its conical spire. Torteval is the only parish to have a medieval bell.

Here are the remains of a small fort at the southern end of Rocquaine Bay. It was built as early as 1680 on a rocky promontory protected by large stone walls and enlarged as time went on. The fort was extensively restored in 1842 and retained its three cannons overlooking Rocquaine Bay at the southwestern end of the island. It was therefore part of the last major works undertaken on the coast in the 19th century, as the southeast coast is naturally protected by high cliffs. A very pleasant stop during a walk in the area.

A small building that is a must see! The Sark prison, built in 1856 at the end of The Avenue, has two small cells of about 5^m2, which are usually empty. But in a serious case, anyone who has broken the law can be locked up for 48 hours. The constable and his assistant, the "vingtenier", have the power of incarceration. After 48 hours, the prisoner is either released or transferred to Guernsey. It is notably known as the smallest prison in the world still in operation.

The Seigneurie, whose main building was constructed in 1675 by Jean Le Gros, father of Suzanne, wife of Nicholas Pelley, is located about 500 meters from the main street of the island of Sark. It was built on the site of the priory of Saint Magloire, a monastery dating from the 6th century. The oldest parts of the building are believed to be over 450 years old. Now the residence of the Lords of Sark, the Seigniory was mainly embellished by John Allaire, the lord of the island, who enlarged it by adding the watchtower, a square tower intended to serve as a semaphore to send messages to Guernsey. The public is not allowed to visit the Seigniory itself, but anyone can walk around the property and observe in the large garden, surrounded by granite walls protecting it from storms and frosts, the many plantations of exotic shrubs that the Lady and her grandson introduced to the island and the many rare plants that adorn it throughout. The Channel Islands do not experience frost, so the plants grow in the ground. We will also see the dovecote built to shelter the lords' pigeons. It is without doubt one of the most beautiful green spaces of the Anglo-Norman archipelago. A magnificent walk in perspective! Not to be missed during a trip to the island. Guided tours are often offered on Wednesdays in high season. Ask for more information!

The island's parish church was built in 1820. Tapestries on the walls depict the island's history. The cushions on the pews, representing the coats of arms of the island's families, were embroidered by the local women. The stained glass windows depict various saints. Among them is Saint Magloire, who came from Dol-de-Bretagne in 565 to establish a monastery on Sark. The monastery housed up to sixty monks, who ran a school for the children of the Breton nobility. The Vikings destroyed the monastery and killed the monks in the 9th^century .

Also called Ivy Castle by the islanders, this 13th century castle was one of the first defenses of Guernsey. It stands a little behind Belle Grève Bay. Fallen into ruin in the 14th century, it was restored during the 18th century and used by the Germans as a bunker during the Occupation. They installed an anti-aircraft battery there. After the liberation of the islands, it was largely restored again in the 1970s. It is now classified as a historical monument by the States of Guernsey, the island's parliament.

Located just outside the center of St. Sampson parish, this horticultural center is built on almost one hectare and features a large crop of freesias (sweet, fresh-smelling flowers) that grow in a warm greenhouse. During your visit to the nursery, you can also buy bulbs and flowers in the gift store. A very original souvenir to bring back! For horticulture lovers only.

The church of Saint Sampson is the oldest parish church on the island of Guernsey. It was built on the same site where Saint Sampson, one of the first missionaries, came from Dol, in Brittany, in the 550s. It is thus him who gave his name to the parish. The building that we can see today dates from the 12th century. Notice to the walkers, the adjoining cemetery is very beautiful, especially in autumn.

The official tourist office of the island of Sark is just a five minute walk from the tractor (arriving from the port). Here you will find everything you need to know about Sark: brochures in French and useful information on how to get around, how to organize your guided tours, how to plan your boat trips, how to book your accommodation, how to find out about upcoming events and how to get personal advice.

The famous "201 Squadron" is the oldest squadron of the Royal Air Force, the air force of the British Army. Until its disbandment in 2011, it was nicknamed "the Guernsey Squadron" and it is indeed its history, as well as that of British aviation as a whole, that is largely presented here. A must-see during a visit to the famous Castle Cornet. This is sure to delight military history lovers.

26 Cornet Street is the headquarters of the National Trust of Guernsey (Foundation for the Conservation of Guernsey Sites and Monuments). This building, dating from the 18th century, is preserved in its original state. Its first floor houses a confectionery and a replica of a 1900's salon. Here, you can treat yourself to some local jams and homemade caramels, to slip into your suitcase before the return boat. Or simply stop for tea in the late afternoon. A golden opportunity to go back in time!

This fort was conceived at the end of the 18th century, in 1780 to replace Castle Cornet which had become very vulnerable to the technical progress of artillery at that time. Fort George ensured the defense of the harbor of Saint-Peter-Port and Guernsey from the beginning of the 19th century. Located on the heights of the main town of the island, it also had a choice location. And today it offers a superb view of the Guernsey coastline.

Property of the De Sausmarez family for eight centuries, this 18th century manor house has been remodeled many times. The visit of the hall and 3 rooms allows to admire family portraits, furniture, tapestries and various objects of the period. In the garden, where subtropical plants grow, sculptures by international artists are exhibited. Other activities include a garden tour, a children's train, exhibitions, a local market, miniature golf, stores, a children's playground and the Tea Garden. Two apartments are also available for rent.

The bay, very easy to approach, and its small harbor were protected by this large tower located on the heights of the coastline, and which was supposed to prevent the enemy from entering the lands of Guernsey. The tower is still standing today and in a fairly good state of preservation. The tower is open to tourists from time to time and tours are organized by volunteers. Find out more on the Guernsey Museums website or on the Facebook profile of Saints Bay Loop Tower 14. Notice to all old stones lovers!