Channel Islands

Although not directly part of the UK they are classed as British Crown Dependencies. The two main islands which lie just off the coast of France are Jersey and Guernsey. With a very short flight you are soon transformed to warmer weather, you don’t need to change currency and they drive on the right side of the road, as you go around the islands you will notice the strong connection to France with the names of the streets.

Guernsey is one of the largest and most beautiful Channel Islands even though it is only 65 km2 and being only 1 and half hour’s flight direct from Leeds it is the perfect easy get away.

Life on Guernsey is laid back and chilled. Guernsey is well renowned for its picturesque coast-line and quaint country lanes and is ideal for the outdoor enthusiast and cyclists.

There are some beautiful unspoilt beaches to match any in the Caribbean, and the island offers amazing views and sunsets, with temperatures often several degrees warmer than the UK.

Guernsey offers a multitude of accommodation from apartments, to family hotels, to beautiful 5star hotels. The choice of food on Guernsey is second to none and offers a true culinary experience. A fabulous range sea food is featured on all of the menus, as are the traditional cream teas and al fresco dining is always popular.

Food festivals, farmers markets and the wonderful Tennerfest are all something to experience.

Tennerfest runs throughout all the Channel Islands for 6 weeks normally through from October into November

Hotels, restaurants, bistros, gastro pubs and cafes all take part in providing fixed price low cost menus showcasing the best of their cuisine and the local produce available in Guernsey.

Menus are fixed from 3 courses for £10 per head to £12.50, £15, £17.50 and £20.

Guernsey has some fabulous cycle tracks or walks to offer including some very well preserved German WW2 tunnels, lookout towers and bunkers to wander through, and a visit to the underground museum and hospital is a must. 

Shopping in Guernsey is a unique and charming experience with the town of St Peters Port offering lovely boutique style shops and locally crafted gifts.

The local buses are a very cheap and efficient way of travelling around Guernsey, as is Island hopping so why not have 2 of 3 breaks in 1?

A visit to Jersey usually starts in St Helier, this capital is unlike any other from with its large sweeping beach which is towered over by Elizabeth Castle. On the Weighbridge you will see the hotels of The Royal Yacht were many where you can enjoy and drink on the evening and the Pomme D’Or.

As you walk the streets you will often find your way to the market with its influences of France and the beautiful Jersey flowers. From there you are likely to cross the road to the fish market. St Helier offers many independent shops which mingle with a few high street names from the UK. With an abundance of restaurants from Michelin Chefs to bar meals there is something for everyone. Food plays an important part in Jersey and the outdoor life it offers.

Howard Davis Park is another place to stop off in St Helier and many outdoor events take place here. The park is close to the Merton Hotel, which offers family entertainment on an evening and is a great hotel for families with its outdoor pool, kids club and wave machine. Not far from St Helier is Harve De Pas which as many hotels facing the seafront and a must is the Thai Dicq Shack where you can eat the best Thai food on the beach and take along your own drink.

From St Helier you can take the Petit Train which provides you with a documentary as you travel to St Aubins. You can use a bus or hire a car to explore the island and visit the world-famous Durrell Zoo, sunbathe at St Brelades Bay, visit the Jersey War Tunnels, explore Gorey and visit Jersey Pearl.

While in Jersey you can even take a day trip over the France or visit Sark. There is always something happening in Jersey, from local craft market, the famous Battle of the Flowers in August to music festivals and the festival of flight. From a family holiday or a couples weekend away; Jersey offers something for everyone and is always worth a visit.

1/2 Jersey