Meet Catherine, Museums Manager at the National Trust for Jersey.
My role as Museums Manager is to oversee the Trust’s visitor attractions: 16 New Street Georgian House and Le Moulin de Quétivel, Jersey’s only remaining working watermill. It’s a multi-faceted role which involves navigating the challenges of preserving and showcasing some of the island’s most special historical landmarks, ensuring they remain not only physically intact but also vibrant, engaging spaces for visitors.
What do you love most about living in Jersey?
I love being close to nature – walking on the North Coast with my dog, Dennis, swimming in the sea (my favourite beach is Plémont) and watching the sunset at St Ouen. When I want to escape it all, I head to the cliffs at Grosnez. I love the open skies and views across to our neighbouring Channel Islands on a clear day.
North coast cliff paths, St. Ouen's at sunset and Plémont Bay
When friends and family are visiting ...
We always make time for long walks and lazy days on the beach.
What would a perfectly festive weekend in Jersey look like for you?
One of my responsibilities at the Trust is to oversee the festivities at 16 New Street Georgian House, including working with a team of volunteers to decorate the whole building from head to toe with natural greenery. With more than 2,000 visitors expected during the months of November and December, my idea of a perfectly festive weekend is to spend it at home – away from all of the hustle and bustle of New Street – relaxing with my family.
How can visitors get involved with the National Trust for Jersey during the winter months?
Visitors can engage with the Trust this winter by coming along to 16 New Street, which is open every Saturday in the run up to Christmas. We also have a range of festive events happening such as Christmas concerts and, of course, Father Christmas at 16 New Street. If you are interested in supporting the Trust’s work protecting Jersey’s historic buildings and natural beauty, you could join as a member or purchase your Christmas presents from our Christmas shop at 16 New Street. If you are visiting from the UK this Christmas, don’t forget to bring your membership card, which gives you free access to National Trust properties in Jersey too.
Did you know that you can also stay with the National Trust in Jersey?
If you’ve been inspired by Catherine’s charming island life, then why not plan a visit? The National Trust for Jersey has a number of delightful properties available to rent, including the newly refurbished Morel Farm, a Grade 2 listed farmstead in the heart of Jersey’s beautiful countryside. The property comprises a farmhouse, pressoir (cider barn), boulangerie (bakehouse) and several other outbuildings. It now offers three luxurious self-catering accommodation units which can be rented separately or as a whole for bigger get togethers with family or friends.
Stay with the National Trust for Jersey.
Morel Farm – The Bakehouse
This Grade 2 listed traditional bakehouse has been delightfully refurbished throughout and provides a beautiful one bedroom cottage that would make a delightful holiday cottage for a couple or a couple with an infant.
Morel Farm – The Chapel
This Grade 2 listed house has recently been converted from a potato store, but has always been called the Chapel due to the ship's bell in the belfry, over the front door. It has been delightfully refurbished throughout and provides a beautiful 1 bedroom home that would make the perfect holiday cottage for a couple or a couple with an infant.
Nicolle Tower
Nicolle Tower was built as a folly in 1821 with two floors, with the third floor being added in 1943 during the German Occupation which served as an observation point due to the vast views that the tower enjoys. These modifications have been kept and can still be seen today as they represent the historical fabric of the building.
Le Câtel Fort
Situated overlooking Grève de Lecq, this former battery and guardhouse (1789) occupies a peaceful spot on the North Coast. Encircled by a loop-holed wall, the Fort garden is ideal for small private functions and is licensed for weddings. This unique accommodation sleeps 10 and offers unparalleled views across the north coast of Jersey.
Morel Farm – The Farmhouse
A beautiful old farmhouse, located in the centre of the island, carefully renovated with great authenticity and charm, surrounded by other farm buildings and a tranquil walled garden. The main Farmhouse is a perfect place to unwind and is steeped in history and charm.
