Guernsey is a jewel of the English Channel.
Guernsey is one of the Channel Islands and it is the perfect place to explore as there’s plenty to see and do.
Guernsey is a special unique destination, and somewhere which really doesn’t get the attention it deserves.
There are lots of outdoor adventures, a multitude of places to eat including highly rated restaurants, beach kiosks to traditional and old local pubs.
View our essential tips for planning a break to Guernsey for the first time.
Getting to Guernsey
There are several ways to reach Guernsey, including embarking on a cruise from Southampton.
Getting to St Peter Port in Guernsey is easy onboard the high-speed ferry, Condor Liberation, which sails from Poole port in 3 hours. Or, you can travel onboard our conventional ferry Commodore Clipper, from Portsmouth port taking around 7 hours.
A number of airlines operate flights to Guernsey from regional and international airports across the UK and Republic of Ireland including London Gatwick, Dublin, Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, Exeter, Southampton and more.
Best Places to Visit in Guernsey
If you’re interested in experiencing the highlights of Guernsey, there are several intriguing places you should add to your itinerary.
1. Saint Peter Port
The capital of Guernsey since the time of the Romans, Saint Peter Port was once a hive of industrial activity, with ships being built here while merchants traded their wares.
Like many of the Channel Islands, Guernsey is a blend of English and French influences and you will see this in its buildings, which take on elements of both Regency and Georgian styles.
Some of the houses look almost as though they have been built on top of each other, as the gardens are tiered and winding alleys snake between the terraces.
2. Guernsey Aquarium
Taking a cruise is likely to see your kids become fascinated with all things marine-related, so treat them to a trip to Guernsey Aquarium in Saint Peter Port.
The site has been situated in La Vallette Tunnel for several decades and you will be able you see a variety of displays containing everything from terrapins and toads to tropical fish.
As well as the marine life, there are also lizards that live here and twice a week you can see them being fed a meal of live insects.
3. Navy Signals HQ
Just like its neighbour Jersey, Guernsey was occupied by German forces during World War II.
Near Saint Peter Port, you will find the Navy Signals HQ, which was used to send all radio traffic back to Germany and the other occupied islands.
This is a fascinating place to delve a little deeper into Guernsey’s past, as these signals were in operation right up until May 1945 – just a few months before the conflict officially came to an end.
During the occupation, the island was heavily fortified and you will be able to see remnants of this defence in many spots around the coastline.
4. La Claire Mare
One of the most popular activities in Guernsey is walking, mainly because the island boasts so much beautiful scenery.
La Claire Mare nature reserve is a fine example of this. The low-lying saline wetland on the west coast is home to plenty of wildlife, including little egrets, wigeon, teal and aquatic warblers. There are also some unusual plants, which are able to thrive here thanks to the mix of reed beds, marshland and open water.
Among the most beautiful sights are the orchid meadows that bloom in May and June, attracting butterflies and other hungry insects. See how many creatures your children can spot as you stroll through the park.
5. Le Trepied Megalithic
Le Trepied Megalithic Burial Chamber in Saint Saviour is one of Guernsey’s most ancient – and interesting – sites and is sure to intrigue younger holidaymakers.
It has a fascinating history, having been mentioned in accounts of the 17th-century witch trials that took place on the island.
When suspected witches were accused of using this place as a meeting place for their covens on Friday evenings, where they would worship the devil as he sat on the chamber’s capstone.
Popular Activities for Tourists
If you are going to be visiting Guernsey for the first time and wondering what some of the best activities include, these recommendations might appeal to you.
Helicopter or Plane Ride
For the ultimate experience you could book a scenic plane trip or helicopter ride to see more of the island from above. You can book a flight experience with a local pilot – this really is an exciting activity.
Day Trip to Jersey
Jersey is the largest of the Channel Islands and located nearby to Guernsey.
This is the largest of the Channel Islands, and regarded as the most scenic. Jersey has stunning beaches, historic sights and plenty of choices for a memorable meal.
Another way to travel is to catch the ferry from Guernsey to Jersey which takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. Guernsey to Jersey flights start from around £66.99 return and the average flight time is just 20 minutes.
Have you ever travelled to Guernsey? Do you have any tips to share? Let us know. You might also like to view our guide to the top places to go in the UK.
