Jersey, or officially known as the Bailiwick of Jersey, is an island located off the coast of Northern France and south of the United Kingdom. It is one of the biggest of the three Channel Islands, known as Crown Dependencies of Great Britain. The island has a rich history behind it and it’s one of the reasons to flock over. Moreover, because of its unique location, tourists will get the best of both worlds with a mix of English and French culture. Jersey is just approximately 120 sq km (12,000 hectares) in size, but don’t be bothered; the island may be a tiny island but it has a great number of things to do. Read on to find out the things to do in Jersey, UK.
1. Tour the exceptional Jersey War Tunnels
Take a trip back in history by reliving life in Nazi-occupied Jersey through the Jersey War Tunnels. Also known as Hohlgangsanlage 8 or Ho8, the Jersey War Tunnels was originally an underground hospital built by the German forces during World War II. Today it stands as a remarkable museum where tourists can feel what life was like during that time with exhibits like the Unfinished Tunnel, Cap Verde Entrance, and Air Raid Shelter, among others. Groups of at least 4 to 8 people aged 15 and above may also enjoy World War II-themed Escape Rooms. History nerds will surely love this destination.
Jersey War Tunnels
Address: Les Charrieres Malorey, St. Lawrence, Jersey JE31FU
Website: Jersey War Tunnels
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily during Spring - Summer); 10am - 3pm (daily during Autumn - Winter)
Price: 18 USD (adult 16+), 17 USD (seniors 65+), 16 USD (students), 11 USD (children 11-15), Free (children below 11)
2. Enjoy bird watching at Jersey Wetland Centre
Take a little nature trip and discover Jersey Wetland Center. This facility overlooks the nature reserve of La Mare au Seigneur or St. Ouen’s Pond, which makes it the perfect spot for bird watching. The idea is brilliant because it lets visitors admire nature in the best way - by observing it from a distance while it’s in its natural habitat. There are even chairs for all ages, depending on your height to provide comfort while bird watching. The center also has interactive exhibits and walkthrough displays about the history of La Mare au Seigneur SSI nature reserve.
Jersey Wetland Centre
Address: Grande Route des Mielles, Jersey JE4 5RL, Jersey
Website: Jersey Wetland Centre
Opening hours: 7am - 7pm (daily)
3. Chill out at Val de La Mare Reservoir
Take a breather and walk around Val de La Mare Reservoir. The reservoir was built in 1962 and it is the second largest on the island of Jersey. Stroll around the 4.5 km (2.8 miles) walking route surrounding the lake and admire the natural beauty of the area. Visitors may take a walk through the woods and by luck, see some species of birds, especially owls. Be prepared to walk up and down towards the dam, though. But no worries since there are a lot of benches for visitors to take a rest. Val de La Mare Reservoir is also known to be the most picturesque among the many reservoirs in Jersey because of its view of the Atlantic Ocean.
Val de La Mare Reservoir
Address: West of Parish of St. Peter
Website: Val de La Mare Reservoir
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4. Go on an oyster tour with Jersey Walk Adventures
When the tides disappear, an entirely new world surfaces - literally. This is what tourists will experience when they visit Jersey Walk Adventures. The unique experience offers a variety of exciting activities like taking “moonwalks” to Seymour and Icho Tower, foraging for seaweed and sampling of fresh oysters. For those opting to be a little more adventurous, overnight stays at Seymour Tower can also be arranged. Be sure to check out their website for the available dates fit for your visit!
Jersey Walk Adventures
Address: Ackaless, La Grande Route de La Cote, St. Clement, Jersey JE2 6FW
Website: Jersey Walk Adventures
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9am - 6pm; Mon: 9:30am - 6pm
Price: Walks from 19 USD, Sea foraging and oyster tasting from 42 USD
5. Walk along the North Coast Cliff Paths
They say the northern part of Jersey island is one of the most beautiful parts of the island for its untouched natural beauty. Because of that, people flock here to take walks from the northeast to the northwestern part of the island. This is known as the North Coast Cliff Paths and there are 15 routes to choose from. Try St. Mary’s loop, which starts and ends at St. Mary’s Country Inn, and admire the northern coast of the quiet parish of St. Mary’s. Photographers might enjoy Northern Cliffs & Caves which explore the part between Bouley Bay and Sorel Point and gives fantastic views of the coastline. There’s also a trail that’s perfect for families - the Family Friendly Coastal Stroll, a short one-hour walk from La Crête Fort then back up to Les Platons is guaranteed to give exceptional and safe views for the entire family. Whatever route you choose, maps are available for download on their website.
North Coast Cliff Paths
Address: North of Jersey
Website: The North Coast Cliff Paths
6. Admire the fantastic Elizabeth Castle
Another top destination for the history enthusiasts is Elizabeth Castle. This historic castle is situated on an islet on St. Aubin’s Bay and it is actually accessible on foot when the tide is low. Its construction dates back as far as the 16th century and it has over 300 years of history covered from the English Civil War to the Seven Years War to the Second World War. Locals also believe that St. Helier lived around here in 550 AD. After touring the castle, a coffee shop is available for refreshments and a gift shop for souvenirs.
Elizabeth Castle
Address: St Aubin’s Bay, St Helier, Jersey JE2 3NU, Jersey
Website: Elizabeth Castle
Opening hours: 10am - 5:30pm (daily)
Price: From 10 USD
7. Hang out at Plemont Bay
Take some time off and relax at Plemont Bay. Located at the northwestern coast of Jersey, Plemont’s landscape is ruggedly beautiful, surrounded by cliffs and beaches. It’s a perfect spot for families and groups of friends to enjoy a picnic or watch the sunset, as many people have done so in the past. While walking around the bay, you’ll be able to discover large caves and with it, natural waterfalls. After exploring the beach area, head back up to the cliff and enjoy a meal at Plemont Bay Café for a satisfying end to your trip.
Plemont Bay
Address: Northwest of Jersey
Website: Plemont Bay
8. Visit Jersey Zoo
Take your kids to visit Jersey Zoo to see some of their favorite animals. The zoo was opened in 1959 by author and naturalist Gerald Durrell and it focuses on endangered and rare species such as orangutans, lemurs, gorillas and over 130 species of birds and reptiles. Zookeepers are available around to talk about the animals and how the zoo is doing their part to conserve them. Kids may also enjoy the Dodo Playground which allows them to safely get up close and personal with the zoo’s orangutans. In the middle of all the fun, in case your tummies get hungry, Jersey Zoo has two restaurants, Cafe Firefly and Dodo Restaurant.
Jersey Zoo
Address: La Profonde Rue, Jersey JE3 5BP, Jersey
Website: Jersey Zoo
Opening hours: 9:30am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 20 USD (adults), 17 USD (students), 18 USD (seniors), 15 USD (children), free (3 yrs and below)
9. Enjoy fabulous views from the South Coast Paths
If there is a North Coast Cliff Path, then there’s also the South Coast Paths. This time, opt to go around and see the coastal harbors and sandy beaches in the southern part of Jersey island. There are also 15 routes to choose from, each giving the traveler a beautiful view of the south coast. A harbor stroll takes you through the harbors of St. Helier and gives you fantastic views of Elizabeth Castle and Fort Regent. For exercise junkies, the route from St. Helier to St. Aubin is perfect, especially for cyclists and joggers because of the “Trim Trail”, which is part of the route. You may also opt for St. Lawrence Parish Walk which takes travelers throughout the beautiful countryside of St. Lawrence and makes a stop at the Jersey War Tunnels and the Hamptonne Museum. Much like the North Coast walks, maps are also available on their website.
South Coast Paths
Address: South of Jersey
Website: The South Coast Paths
10. Watch the sunset from La Corbière Lighthouse
Far out into the tip of southwestern Jersey lies La Corbière Lighthouse. At low tide, a causeway appears as a pathway to get to the iconic structure. Visitors should not be worried about the tide though, because an alarm sounds if the tide will return to cover up the path. Though the lighthouse structure itself is a sight to see, one of the best ways to enjoy it is from a distance. Why not pull up a blanket and enjoy a picnic by a cliff? Or even better, dinner at Corbière Phare, both with a scenic view of the lighthouse in the backdrop. Finally, grab a glass of wine, enjoy the most beautiful sunset with the silhouette of the lighthouse complementing it. What a perfect way to end your day at La Corbière!
La Corbière Lighthouse
Address: Southwest of Jersey
Website: La Corbière Lighthouse
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
11. See the exhibits at Channel Islands Military Museums
The Channel Islands Military Museum used to be a bunker that was once part of Hitler’s Atlantic Wall defenses. Today, it stands as a monument and a reminder of how life was during the five years that Nazi Germany occupied the island of Jersey. The rooms are filled with historical artifacts from the Second World War, for tourists to see and read. There’s also a historical commentary from locals recalling their personal experiences during that time.
Channel Islands Military Museums
Address: La Grande Route Des Mielles, St Ouen, Jersey JE3 2FN, Jersey
Website: Channel Islands Military Museums
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 6 USD (adult), 4 USD (child)
12. Explore the botanical garden at Samares Manor
Marvel at the beautiful botanical gardens at Samares Manor. There are several different gardens within the compound like the Gardens of Color, Discovery Garden, The Bee Garden, Cactus and Succulent Collection and Calendar Garden. Here, you will find a wide array of plants and flowers from roses, lavenders, herbs, and perennials, among others. The Manor is also open for viewing and touring. The compound is also available for renting during weddings and events.
Samares Manor & Botanic Gardens
Address: La Grande Route de Saint-Clément, St Clement, Jersey JE2 6QW, Jersey
Website: Samares Manor & Botanic Gardens
Opening hours: 9:30am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 12 USD (adult), 11 USD (seniors 65+), 7 USD (students)
13. Visit the ancient La Hougue Bie (from USD 57.0)
Another historic site that is a must-visit in Jersey is La Hougue Bie. The monument is known as one of the ten oldest buildings in the world and it is home to some of the finest passage graves in Europe. These graves date as far back as the Neolithic Age which makes the site more interesting and spiritual in a sense. Tourists will be able to view ancient treasures in the geology and archaeology museum from the Neolithic Age such as axes, swords, and spears. There is also a historic German-built bunker during the period of the Second World War, which contains a memorial to slaves and workers during the said period. The site is a real treat for history lovers.
Jersey Heritage Pass: Four Attractions for Price of Three
Duration: 7 days
14. Tour the beautiful Mont Orgueil Castle
Step into the medieval era by visiting Mont Orgueil Castle, an 800-year-old site that’s home to several staircases, towers and hidden rooms filled with historic (and some gruesome) stories. Some of the highlights to look out for at Mont Orgueil are the Witches in Hell, Wheel of Urine and Dance of Death statue. Scaredy cats don’t fret! These are all just part of good old medieval history that shaped present-day Jersey. Visitors may opt to enjoy beautiful views of the French coast in case the interiors of the castle freak you out a little bit. Either way, Mont Orgueil is a must-visit in Jersey!
Mont Orgueil Castle
Address: Castle Green, Gorey, St Martin JE3 6ET, Jersey
Website: Mont Orgueil Castle
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 16 USD (adult), 10 USD (child, student), 14 USD (senior)
15. Go shopping in St. Helier
Take a break from your usual tours and sightseeing to drop by St. Helier and go shopping. The main street where most of the shops are located is along King St. and Queen St. Two of Jersey’s main department stores are located along King St., namely De Gruchy’s and Voisins where shoppers can find quality brands of clothing and other items. Well-known brands such as Marks & Spencer, Top Shop, WH Smith, Mothercare, and many others also line the streets giving shoppers familiar options. Jersey is also a perfect place to shop for high-end jewelry such as Rolex, Cartier and Patek Philippe because of the island’s low-tax prices. Foodies will also enjoy the fact that the streets are lined with Jersey’s finest food products like salted caramel, chocolates, locally made “black butter” and restaurant options like Coco Rico, Relish, Ormer Delicatessen, Maison La Mare and more. Go ahead and shop till you drop!
Shopping at St. Helier
Address: St. Helier, Jersey
Website: Shopping at St. Helier
16. Admire the beautiful Jersey Lavender Farm
Drown in a sea of lavender - literally - when visiting the beautiful Jersey Lavender Farm. The farm is a family-owned business and the main goal is to grow and harvest lavenders and then produce them into pure lavender oil which is used in many fragrances and toiletries. The best time to visit is during their Harvest Season between June 4 to August 26 because this is where a lot of the action takes place. This is also the only time when talks are given at the farm’s distillery (at 11:30 am and 3 pm) and allow visitors to learn more about the process of creating these lavender oils and products. There is also a coffee shop and a gift shop for tourists to relax and check out. It’s also a perfect place for your Instagram needs!
Jersey Lavender Farm
Address: Rue du Pont Marquet, Jersey JE3 8DS, Jersey
Website: Jersey Lavender Farm
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 4 USD (early & late season), 7 USD (harvest season)
17. Enjoy a European meal with a view at Quayside Bistro & Grill
Stop for a meal at Jersey’s largest seafood restaurant, Quayside Bistro & Grill, located at the heart of St. Helier. Taste some of the island’s best and freshest plates of seafood including oysters, crabs, scallops and sea bass. Pair your dish with the perfect wine from their extensive selection. To top off the experience, enjoy a scenic view of St. Helier Marina. The restaurant is one of the most popular in the area so a table booking is highly recommended.
Quayside Bistro & Grill
Address: Liberty Wharf, Liberation Square, St. Helier JE2 3NY
Website: Quayside Bistro & Grill
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 12am - 2pm, 5pm - 9:30pm; Sun: 12am - 4pm, 5pm - 9:30pm
18. Sample wines at La Mare Wine Estate
It’s not a trip to Europe without visiting a vineyard and tasting some quality wine, is it? Well, Jersey also has its own - La Mare Wine Estate. Built in 1972, this is the only working vineyard in Jersey. Visitors can opt for a tour of the vineyard and tasting of the wines after, or taste their famous cream tea paired with Jersey’s famous black butter at the Vineyard Cafe. The vast estate houses not only rows of vineyards but also several beautiful gardens as well as orchards, a distillery, and historic buildings.
La Mare Wine Estate
Address: La Rue de la Hougue Mauger, St Mary, Jersey JE3 3BA
Website: La Mare Wine Estate
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 13 USD (adult), 12 USD (concession), 6 USD (children aged 10 - 17), free (children aged 10 and below)
19. Explore the Jersey Maritime Museum and Occupation Tapestry
As an island, the seas play an important role in the history of Jersey. Learn about the maritime history of the island through the Jersey Maritime Museum, a unique and interactive museum that allows visitors to see, touch, hear and even smell the exhibits. Also located within the Jersey Maritime Museum is the Occupation Tapestry, a commemorative exhibit on the 50th Anniversary of Jersey’s liberation from five years of Nazi occupation during the Second World War. Tickets to this special exhibit are usually included with the purchase of a pass to Jersey Maritime Museum but if tourists are only interested in the Occupation Tapestry, a single ticket is sold separately.
Jersey Maritime Museum and Occupation Tapestry
Address: New North Quay, St. Helier, JE2 3ND
Website: Jersey Maritime Museum and Occupation Tapestry
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 12 USD (adult), 8 USD (child, student), 11 USD (senior), 6 USD (Occupation Tapestry only)
20. Watch a concert at Jersey Opera House
For those more inclined to the arts, Jersey Opera House is the place for you. Its inception dates as far back as 1865 when Henry Cornwall originally named it Cornwall’s Royal Amphitheatre. For several decades, the theater had many owners and managers, and it was renamed over and over until in 1995 when the states of Jersey finally owned the rights and gave it its present name. Be sure to check out the latest shows and concerts happening during your stay at Jersey and experience the best of art in such a historic theater.
Jersey Opera House
Address: 3 Gloucester St, St. Helier JE2 3QR, Jersey
Website: Jersey Opera House
21. Explore The Harbour Gallery Jersey
Another perfect destination for the art lovers is the Harbour Gallery Jersey. With over 100 pieces on display, discover Jersey’s heritage and culture through the lens of an artist. The Harbour Gallery Jersey is the largest exhibiting gallery in all of the Channel Islands so it’s a definite must-see. There’s also a Gallery Cafe and Deli available on site after going through the marvelous pieces.
The Harbour Gallery Jersey
Address: Le Boulevard, St Aubin, Jersey JE3 8AB, Jersey
Website: The Harbour Gallery Jersey
Opening hours: 10am - 5:30pm (daily)
22. Have fun at Rocco's Crazy Golf & Mini Golf & the Fun Zone
Bring your child or bring out your inner child and have fun at Rocco’s Fun Zone at Les Mielles Country Club. Some of the activities at the Fun Zone include Crazy Golf, an 18-hole Jersey-themed golf course, Mini Golf, a miniature version of that, Jump Zone, and Laser Clay Pigeon Shooting. It’s a perfect place to spend fun bonding time with family and friends.
Rocco's Crazy Golf & Mini Golf & the Fun Zone
Address: La Grande Route des Mielles, St. Ouen’s Bay, Jersey JE3 7FQ
Website: Rocco’s Crazy Golf & Mini Golf & the Fun Zone
Opening hours: 10am - 7pm (daily)
Price: From 7 USD (kids), from 9 USD (adults)
23. Catch a horse race at Les Landes Racecourse
One of the most popular sports in Europe is horse racing. And what better way to experience it in Jersey than at Les Landes Racecourse. Located at the northwestern part of Jersey, it was formed way back in 1832 and has been a well-known pastime since then. Today, locals and tourists alike visit the racecourse and place their bets on their favorites. And while watching a race, admire the scenic coastal area of Grosnez in the backdrop. Be sure to check their website for upcoming shows during your visit!
Les Landes Racecourse
Address: Jersey Race Club, 3 Grantez Farm, La Rue Des Grantez, St. Ouen, Jersey JE3 2GU
Website: Les Landes Racecourse
Price: From 12 USD
24. Go surfing at St. Ouen's Bay
What’s a trip to a beautiful island like Jersey without trying surfing? The main surfing hub is located at St. Ouen’s Bay, where the weather conditions are fit for surfing lessons and surfing in general. Enjoy the waters crashing from the Atlantic Ocean at what is known to be one of the best surfing beaches in Europe. There are several great surfing schools in St. Ouen’s Bay like Laneez Surf School, Splash Surf Center, and Jersey Surfboard Club. So whether you’re a pro or a first-timer, the tides are calling!
Surfing in Jersey
Address: St. Ouen’s Bay, Jersey
Website: Surfing in Jersey
25. Plan a family day at aMaizin Adventure Park
A perfect destination for the whole family is aMaizin Adventure Park, Jersey’s largest farm park that offers both exciting indoor and outdoor activities. Some of the outdoor activities include go-kart racing, gold mining and going through a corn maze (aka the Maize Maze) while the indoor activities offer slides and ball pits all perfectly safe for your child to enjoy. For the animal lovers, there are goats, sheep, guinea pigs, and rabbits to welcome you at the barnyard. These animals have been adopted or have retired in the farm, so it’s a lovely way to appreciate them. After an exhausting day, refresh and recharge at the farm’s Rangers Diner, with the whole family.
aMaizin Adventure Park
Address: La Hougue Farm, La Grande Route De St Pierre, St Peter JE3 7AX, Jersey
Website: aMaizin Adventure Park
Opening hours: 10am - 5:30pm (daily)
Price: From 14 USD
26. Enjoy an exciting ride on FlowRide at the Merton Hotel
Not ready to try actual surfing? No worries, Merton Hotel has got you covered! One of their main attractions at present is the FlowRide, a fun and safe combination of surfing, skateboarding and snowboarding all in one. The flooring is made of a soft material that’s similar to that of a judo mat, and the water flows thinly across, perfect for you to try your own style. FlowRide offers half-day, full-day, three-day or seven-day passes - endless options of fun!
FlowRide at the Merton Hotel
Address: Belvedere Hill, Jersey JE4 9PG
Website: Merton Hotel
Opening hours: 9:30am - 10am, 2pm - 2:30pm (Safety briefings); 10am - 11:30am, 2:30pm - 4pm (Coaching classes); 11am - 1pm, 4pm-5:30pm (Open sessions)
Price: From 23 USD
27. Enjoy a meal at Le Braye Café
Taste some classic British and Mediterranean dishes at family-owned Le Braye at the heart of St. Ouen’s Bay. The restaurant is run by the Baker family and offers not only quality food but great service and company as well. The restaurant is a wonderful space for intimate gatherings, quick meetings and everything in between. Oh, and they also welcome dogs!
Le Braye Café
Address: La, Grande Route des Mielles, JE3 8FN, Jersey
Website: Le Braye Café
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 8:30pm; Sun: 9am - 8pm
28. Wander around Liberty Wharf Shopping Centre
Much like King Street and Queen Street and also located in St. Helier, Liberty Wharf Shopping Centre offers a quaint way of shopping to visitors and locals alike. The shopping center is located inside a restored Victorian-style building and it has a number of familiar brands like Marks & Spencer, Costa, Bodyrox and Mimosa, among others. There are also a lot of restaurants and coffee shops to enjoy after a tiring day of shopping.
Liberty Wharf Shopping Centre
Address: Albert House, La Route De La Liberation, St Helier, Jersey, Jersey JE2 3NY, Jersey
Website: Liberty Wharf Shopping Centre
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 8am - 6pm; Sun: 9:30am - 5pm
29. Try local beer at The Lamplighter
There’s nothing like a European trip without a visit to a local pub and enjoy some beer with your friends. Aside from being known for its quality real ales, whiskey and ciders, and delicious pub meals, locals recognize it for its warm and exciting atmosphere, especially during sports events. Enjoy special Steak Nights on Tuesdays and Thursdays too! To add to its already remarkable description, The Lamplighter also holds the awards of Pub of the Year from CAMRA in 2014, 2015 and 2016.
The Lamplighter
Address: 9 Mulcaster Street, St Helier, Jersey JE2 3NJ
Website: The Lamplighter
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 11:30am - 2:30pm, 6pm - 8pm; Sat & Sun: 12pm - 4pm
30. Be amazed by the Mansell Car Collection
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Whether you’re a car enthusiast or simply a person of modern interests, perhaps the historic sites won’t be as fit for you like the Mansell Car Collection. Originally the Nigel Mansell Museum, this was once a tribute site to the legendary Formula One racer. What used to be filled with documents, footage, and trophies of Mansell’s career is now a showroom for cars from top dealers Hyundai and Mitsubishi. Visitors will be provided with an excellent array of new and used vehicles from the two dealers and will be offered only the best financing and services fit for their needs.
Experience Jersey Island's beauty, history and culture
For a small island, Jersey sure does have an incredible history and culture to back it up with. A trip to Jersey is sure to be a memorable one because of the historic sites, beautiful landscapes, breathtaking beaches, and lovely locals. So what are you waiting for? Take that much-awaited break and disappear on this remarkable island.
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