Are you a history buff? Do stories of the past ignite your imagination? Are you on the hunt for historic experiences to fill your holiday? In Jersey you’ll uncover a plethora of places that tell tales of our multi layered past. From ancient dolmens and medieval castles to living history at historic houses, WW2 bunkers that echo with remembrance of times past, our little island is overflowing with encounters of bygone days. We’ve gathered a trove of ideas to help you plan your next history holiday to Jersey.
Historic holiday experiences not to miss this summer.
Join Jersey Heritage this summer as they take you on a journey back in time. Their calendar is choc full of events that will inspire and delight adventurers of any age. From insightful exhibitions and summer night sessions, to thrilling tours of the precious places they care for. The talented team will bring history alive however you choose to experience it.
History and heritage attractions.
Delve into Jersey's past.
Let your imagination lead the way on your historic holiday in Jersey, as you explore the island’s many history and heritage attractions. Go underground at the Jersey War Tunnels, be mystified by ancient dolmens, scale the heights of medieval castles and wander around an astonishing array of wonderful, interactive museums and living history experiences.
La Pouquelaye de Faldouet
Built around 6,000 years ago, La Pouquelaye de Faldouet is a Neolithic passage grave that leads onto a unique double chamber. Visit the atmospheric site to see the main chamber and the small stone cists, or boxes that surround it and be wowed by the massive 24-ton capstone covering the end chamber.
Le Moulin de Quétivel Watermill and Tearoom
Located in one of Jersey's most picturesque valleys, Le Moulin de Quétivel is the only surviving working watermill in the island. Surrounded by water meadows, a visit to the mill will give you a fascinating insight into Jersey's agricultural and industrial heritage. Please note, we are now closed until May 2024.
The Botanic Gardens at Samares Manor
Created in the 1920's by millionaire philanthropist Sir James Knott, The Botanic Gardens offer many distinctive and unique plant collections which thrive in this exceptionally fertile site. Visit The Botanic Gardens to relax, explore, discover, eat, shop and stay. Uncover one of Europe's most outstanding gardens.
La Hougue Bie Museum
A truly memorable experience that is both thought provoking and peaceful. Unlike many other dolmens, you can stand inside its chamber and feel the atmosphere of this profoundly sacred space. The passage grave is one of the ten oldest buildings in the world.
16 New Street Georgian House Museum
16 New Street is a magnificently restored townhouse in the centre of St. Helier where you can explore life in fashionable Jersey during the Georgian era. With authentic sights and sounds, you will be transported to a time of elegance when gentlemen smoked clay pipes and the threat of French invasion was always a hot topic of conversation.
Pallot Steam, Motor & General Museum
Dedicated to preserving the island's mechanical heritage. Step back in time and enjoy the vast and varied collection of steam engines, vintage and classic vehicles, agricultural implements, domestic items and much more! Bringing back memories for the whole family to enjoy. Currently open Tuesdays and Fridays plus additional days in high season.
Jersey Museum, Art Gallery & Victorian House
Discover the Island’s story for free on the Ground Floor of our Art Gallery and Museum. Watch our Story of Jersey film and visit the Aspiring Jersey Island Geopark Visitor Centre and the Link Gallery.
Mont Orgueil Castle
Mont Orgueil Castle, or Gorey Castle, has cast its imposing shadow over the beautiful fishing port of Gorey for more than 800 years. One of the finest examples of a medieval fortress in existence, Mont Orgueil is also a symbol of Jersey’s national identity and independent character.
Jersey War Tunnels
Jersey War Tunnels tells the true story of wartime Jersey in a way that no other visitor attraction does. It’s the best place to get a true picture of what life was really like in Jersey during WWII. The exhibition is housed within an underground tunnel complex, built by the Germans using slave labour.
Hamptonne Country Life Museum
Explore the different houses which make up Hamptonne, find out more about Jersey's history of cider making in the cider barn and wander through the cider apple orchard and meet the Hamptonne calves, chickens, sheep and piglets in the traditional farmstead and meadow.
Channel Islands Military Museum
The Channel Islands Military Museum is housed in a German bunker that once formed part of Hitler's Atlantic Wall defences. Within the bunker itself are many rooms full of artefacts both military and civilian that help tell the story of the five long years of German occupation.
Grosnez Castle
Grosnez Castle is a ruined 14th-century castle in St. Ouen, situated in Grosnez in the north west corner of the island. Philippe de Carteret held it against the French when they took half of Jersey between 1461 and 1467, but it has been a ruin since the mid 16th century.
History and heritage places to stay.
Slumber at spellbinding sites.
Make history on your island break by choosing to stay in one of the island’s most unique accommodations – a true holiday for history lovers! Be transported back in time at a coastal fort, 400 year old castle or fifteenth century farmhouse. Make your base at a barracks or a WW2 radio tower overlooking the wild south-west coast of Jersey.
Barge Aground
The iconic Barge Aground is uniquely positioned in the stunning St. Ouen’s Bay with direct access to the beach. Built in the 1930s, this is the last of the seaside follies and chalets which once lined the bay. The décor has a 1930s theme, with walnut wooden floors and some original furniture.
La Crête Fort
Nestling on a headland, this tranquil property is built on Jersey’s rugged north coast and is surrounded on three sides by the sea. La Crête Fort comprises a double or twin bedroom, a single bunkroom and spacious shower room and large lounge/diner with sofa bed. A flight of stone steps will take you up to a large granite room with a vaulted ceiling
Cider Barn Apartment at Hamptonne
Nestled amongst the thatch and granite of a 15th Century farmstead, Hamptonne Cider Barn Apartment provides an idyllic family holiday in the heart of Jersey’s countryside. A memorable setting for a relaxing family break or romantic getaway. The Cider Barn apartment is one of two well-appointed apartments which can jointly accommodate 10 people.
Archirondel Tower
A coastal tower with wonderful views, the tower is split over four levels with a large terrace at ground level and a roof terrace overlooking the tranquil bay of Archirondel, the Tower is great for those looking for adventure, with the sea on your doorstep.
History and heritage tours.
Uncover the past with a local expert.
Jersey is bursting with people who are ready and waiting to share our island and all the intriguing stories and places to be found here. Join one of our expert guides on a voyage of discovery as they lead you back in time. Stride out on walking tours, sit back on bus tours and set sail on boat tours. Whatever pace you prefer, you’ll find a trip that suits your historic holiday style in Jersey.
Jersey Military Tours
When history comes alive! Join Marc Yates, the only accredited Battlefield Guide in the Channel Islands on a journey of military history from Iron Age forts to German occupation bunkers. Let me open your eyes to Jersey's fabulous military history and scenic beauty!
WW2 Bunkers Tours
Join Jersey War Tours and visit WW2 bunkers, which are not usually open to the public. JWT will show you how Jersey was made into an impregnable fortress and help you appreciate what the Third Reich was able to create with slave labour. The tour is also a perfect complement to understanding the history of the D-Day invasion, which took place less than 30 miles away.
Apr 20 2024 ‐ Dec 31 2024
Bioluminescence on The Beach
As night descends and the ocean recedes, star-like shapes of luminous green twinkle and sparkle in a few unique spots at low tide. Experience the uniqueness of bioluminescent creatures and other marine life on this “moonwalk” across the seabed. Visit our website to book online.
May 03 2024 ‐ Aug 30 2024
Bunkers at Night with Jersey War Tours
See Jersey's military heritage in a new light and help to support a non-profit organisation! Evening tours of bunkers offer an unforgettable atmosphere when exploring. We will visit sites not open to the public and places not visited by any of the commercial tours.
Apr 20 2024 ‐ Dec 31 2024
A Harbour Master’s ‘Maritime Jersey’
Join Bay Tours Jersey and Captain Brian Nibbs, a former Jersey Harbour Master and a Bronze Award Guide, for this unique coach tour offering a mariner’s historical view, as we tour the South and South West coast.
May 01 2024 ‐ Oct 02 2024
Jersey War Tours
Jersey War Tours (JWT) is a non-profit organisation who allow access to their WW2 sites for tours and visits. All funds are invested back into the WW2 projects and maintenance program of work. Tours are guided by volunteers who all work on these projects and you won't find better experts to explain the Occupation and Liberation history.
Geotourist – Occupation Trail
The Channel Islands were the only part of the British Isles to be occupied by German forces in WW2. The Occupation has left an extraordinary legacy on Jersey, with hundreds of concrete bunkers, walls and tunnels ringing the coast and scattering the island’s interior. Download the Geotourist app to follow the Occupation Trails and explore how the Occupation has left an extraordinary legacy on Jersey.
Apr 20 2024 ‐ Dec 31 2024
Private WW2 Bunker Tours
Join Jersey War Tours and visit WW2 bunkers, which are not usually open to the public. JWT will show you how Jersey was made into an impregnable fortress and help you appreciate what the Third Reich was able to create with slave labour.
Apr 20 2024 ‐ Dec 29 2024
Seabed Walk to Seymour Tower
Walk on the seabed and explore gullies and rock pools as you walk to Seymour Tower (one mile offshore) and discover Jersey’s very own wilderness with expert local guides. Walk in Europe's largest intertidal rocky area during our 'Moonwalks' as you discover the lunar-like rock formations. Escape from the sounds and activities of everyday life as you explore a place that is neither sea nor land.
Apr 21 2024 ‐ Aug 26 2024
Geotourist – Liberation Trail
The Channel Islands were the only part of the British Isles to be occupied by German forces in WW2. The five-year occupation came to an end on 09 May 1945, which is now known as Liberation Day - an event still celebrated in Jersey with an annual bank holiday and festivities that mark this momentous occasion.
Apr 20 2024 ‐ Dec 31 2024
St. Helier Walks
Join our qualified guides every Sunday morning to take a walk through the fascinating history and culture of Jersey. Tours start from and return to Liberation Square. Tickets can be booked in advance through Eventbrite or you can pay on the day (cash only, please).
Apr 21 2024 ‐ Jul 28 2024
Inspiration for your historic holiday.
Historic places to have a picnic in Jersey.
Tuck into a feast of local produce and tasty treats surrounded by the island’s history. Find out where to fill your basket and all of the best historical places to lay out your picnic blanket.
Discover days that will go down in history.
Are you looking to pack your days with ancient finds and fascinating stories of temps passé? Then explore itineraries full of discoveries, and uncover your perfect Jersey holiday.
