Jersey is a special place, shaped by time and tide. Our distinctive island heritage and breathtaking landscapes speak to the soul and nourish your sense of adventure. From ancient buildings to exceptional local produce – and everything in between – there are many things which make Jersey truly unique, here are our top ten.
1. Older than the pyramids
Jersey is a treasure trove of some of the world’s best-preserved prehistoric sites, dolmens, and burial mounds. What’s more, you can explore multiple structures spanning six millennia at the same site. Where else in the world can you do that?
At La Hougue Bie, you’ll discover an ancient Neolithic passage grave which is the tenth oldest building in the world. Built around 4000–3500 BC (predating the pyramids!), this ancient chamber was once a sacred space for rituals and ceremonies and was constructed to align with the rising sun in spring and the summer equinox. On top of the mound is a 16th century Christian chapel, adjacent to a German command bunker from World War II.
Did you know…
…Jersey’s soil is rich with historical secrets. In January 2012, two metal detectorists uncovered precious metal objects which included the biggest Celtic coin hoard that has ever been found in western Europe, comprising almost 70,000 coins.
2. One of the largest tidal ranges in the world
Creating an ever-changing backdrop, Jersey has one of the largest tidal ranges in the world, meaning there is always plenty of exploring to be had. At low tide, the island nearly doubles in size, and on the biggest tides of the year, the tidal range is up to an astonishing twelve metres. Experience our amazing tides, beaches, and coastal landscapes within different contexts, from touring among oyster and mussel beds to a bioluminescent “moonwalk” across the seabed at night.
At low tide, there's twice as much to explore! So, what are you waiting for?
3. Explore our island in a day
Jersey’s coastline is shaped by time and tide. Walk the 48 miles of coastal path to uncover an island story that stretches back to the Ice Age, when the sea cast the island adrift from the continent and woolly mammoths once roamed the headlands. Low tides reveal the island’s breathtaking geological beauty and iconic views abound, from La Corbière Lighthouse which dominates a rocky outcrop, to Elizabeth Castle, built on a tidal island in St. Helier.
Jersey is an island that is 9 by 5 miles, edged with country lanes and scenic coastal parks. The island’s size means you’re never more than 10 minutes from the sea! For the intrepid walker, it’s possible to circumnavigate the island in a day with 48 miles of stunning coastline and over 30 stunning beaches and bays to discover. For the relaxed explorer, there is plenty of opportunity to take a scenic walk or cycle through Jersey National Park, or to visit the Jersey Island Geopark, an aspiring UNESCO global geopark.
4. Dramatic castles with unique history
Majestic castles, granite fortifications, shattered ruins on sheer cliffs and tidal islets pepper the island’s coastline. Jersey is rich with tales of battles, smugglers and pirates. Discover the story of Sir Walter Raleigh’s life as Governor of Jersey or King Charles II’s secret stay enroute to exile in France.
Mont Orgueil, which has cast its imposing shadow over the quaint fishing port of Gorey for over 800 years, is one of the finest remaining examples of a medieval castle. Walk within its walls, and feel like you’re part of its story.
Did you know…
…with Jersey Heritage Lets, you can stay somewhere with a story – from a regal break at Elizabeth Castle, accessible by a 1km tidal causeway, to a more rustic night at La Rocco Tower, built in St Ouen’s Bay in 1796 to defend the island, and which is surrounded by the sea twice a day. Create your own adventure when you stay at one of Jersey Heritage Lets’ many historic properties.
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5. A unique World War II history
Uniquely, the Channel Islands were the only part of the British Islands occupied by Nazi forces during World War II. Uncover Jersey’s wartime past and the history of the 5-year occupation and discover relics across the landscape including wartime batteries, secret bunkers, coastal fortifications, the subterranean Jersey War Tunnels and military cemeteries, each with their own story to tell.
Did you know…
…In 1946, after the British Army dismantled the WWII German gun batteries in Jersey, 45 heavy guns were thrown off the cliffs of the north-west corner of the island. 7 of the guns were brought back up for display across the Channel Islands, but the rest remain below the cliffs. Locally known as the ‘Gun Graveyard’, on a low spring tide it is possible to see what is left of these weapons, but once the tide comes in, you would never know they were there.
6. Experience global conservation in action
The internationally recognised Jersey Zoo is a beautiful 32-acre parkland and the world’s first conservation zoo. Founded by Gerald Durrell over 60 years ago, with his childhood story the subject of the popular ITV drama The Durrells, Durrell Jersey Zoo showcases only a fraction of the work being undertaken globally to save endangered and rewild ecosystems, so they are more sustainable, diverse and resilient.
Did you know…
…you can get up even closer to the zoo’s animals and become a keeper for a day, providing a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into caring for some of the fascinating species. If you want to take it even further, why not stay the night? With a choice of luxury glamping or budget accommodation at the Durrell Wildlife Camp, with entry to the zoo included, fall asleep to the sounds of the animals then wake up and head off to explore.
7. Life’s a beach
The beach is at the heart of island life. From sweeping sandy bays to craggy coves, there’s space to breathe in the restorative sea air with over 30 beaches and bays to enjoy. Enjoy brisk winter walks on windswept beaches or get active in a plethora of outdoor sports and activities on golden sunny summer sands. The island’s beaches are pristine and uncrowded all-year round, so it may feel like you have the place to yourself! At selected beach locations, BeachAbility provides ease of access to allow those with accessibility needs to enjoy the beach and sea.
Did you know…
…Jersey’s surfing culture stretches back 100 years, and the vibe is still very much alive today, with locals and visitors alike attracted by the rolling waves conjured up by the strong tidal currents. You don’t have to be a surfer to enjoy our beaches and bays though: coasteering, blokarting, kayaking, paddleboarding and many other coastal and water activities can also be enjoyed here. Alternatively, if you crave the quieter life, simply plunge into our turquoise sea to experience its salty therapeutic benefits.
8. Not the UK and not France
Jersey’s history and culture draws on the best of Britain and France. Jersey is a Crown Dependency that is not part of the UK but part of the British Islands. The island is self-governing but has close cultural ties with the Duchy of Normandy, where King Charles III is monarch as Duke of Normandy.
Jersey became tied to the English Crown in 1066 with the Norman invasion of England by William the Conqueror, Duke of Normandy. When England lost possession of Normandy, the island swore its allegiance to King John of England in 1204 signalling a connection with the English Crown that remains to this day, despite many Norman customs and laws still evident. France is just 14 miles away and is visible on a clear day. Watch out for French road names and place names in Jèrriais, the island’s own unique Norman language.
Did you know…
…Jersey has its own version of Pound Sterling, and paper £1 notes are still in circulation. If you look closely at our notes, you will see the late Queen Elizabeth II smiling – she doesn’t smile on any other notes in the UK! Look even closer and you’ll see the famous Jersey cow on the watermark. Use this currency to pay for experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
2027 will mark William the Conqueror’s 1000th birthday celebrations and activities.
9. A foodie paradise
From beachside bars to a Michelin star, Jersey packs a rich and colourful larder into its nine by five food miles, from buttery Jersey Royals plucked from the ground to fresh oysters washed clean by the expansive tidal range and Jersey Ice Cream, an oh-so-creamy treat from the world-famous Jersey cows.
With over 500 places to eat across the island, you might find yourself spoilt for choice! You’ll be hard pressed to find chain cafés and restaurants, with most being family-owned or boutique eateries that each offers a unique vibe. Peckish travellers will find farm stalls, food markets and beach cafes bursting with unique Jersey produce straight from the sea and/or farm. Sample wines from locally grown grapes, cider from island orchards and spirits distilled from Jersey Royal potatoes, blended with meticulously selected local botanicals or with the addition of Jersey cream for an opulent cream liqueur.
10. Offshore discoveries
Jersey’s crystal-clear waters are home to an abundance of marine life. Discover the island’s offshore reefs and sand bars, washed by the ever-changing tidal current. A RIB experience allows you to explore the island and its archipelagos from a unique perspective, where bottle-nosed dolphins will playfully ride the waves alongside your RIB boats.
Did you know…
…you can discover a submerged coastal landscape of reefs and islands, revealed at low tide. At low tide, Les Minquiers have a land area around 10 miles long and 7 miles wide – larger than Jersey itself, or the city of Manchester. At high tide, they almost completely disappear, save for a few fishermen’s huts. Walk, wander and swim around this unique habitat before it’s reclaimed by the sea.
