Top 10 things to do in Jersey

Just a few miles from the French coast, there’s plenty to enjoy in Jersey. The island has the best sunshine record compared to the UK and, with cosmopolitan style. Whether you want to enjoy magnificent sandy beaches, explore dozens of attractions, or learn about Jersey’s fascinating heritage, you’ve made the right choice to come here. 1. Get some sand between your toes On Jersey, you’re never more than ten minutes from the coast. Which beach will be your favourite? Will it be lively St Brelade’s Bay in the south, voted the third best in the UK on TripAdvisor, St Ouen’s Bay, a surfing paradise in the west, or gorgeous Plémont Cove on Jersey’s north west tip?

2. Discover Jersey’s occupation stories Learn how people coped when the Channel Islands were invaded by the Germans in the Second World War. The Jersey War Tunnels tell their stories of survival and heroism in the only part of the British Isles to be occupied during the conflict.

3. Say hello to the animals

Jersey Zoo is world famous. Opened in 1959 by naturalist and writer Gerald Durrell, it offers visitors an amazing day out and an opportunity to learn more about its pioneering conservation work around the globe.

4. Explore a castle or two Jersey’s heritage is second-to-none. Medieval Mont Orgueil Castle sits above the fishing village of Gorey and offers stunning views of France from the towers. Elizabeth Castle is actually on a small island in St Aubin’s Bay and, over the centuries, has welcomed Sir Walter Raleigh and King Charles II.

5. Sample the best in island cuisine Local produce is the best. Find out for yourself at La Mare Wine Estate, famed for its Jersey Apple Brandy Cream. Other highlights include the world-renowned Jersey Royals potatoes, milk from Jersey cows, locally caught lobster and oysters and much more.

6. Get active Enjoy life on the water, whether you like sailing, kayaking, paddle boarding, surfing or swimming. Get out into the countryside for a gentle walk or try the local favourite from Corbière Lighthouse to Portelet Bay. Or how about abseiling, rock climbing or even ziplining through the trees?

7. Precious pearls Head west to St Ouen and discover beautiful jewellery at Jersey Pearl where you can find out how oysters create them and how they are turned into unique pieces and the best ways to look after them.

8. Shop for the best prices Bustling St Helier is the place to be if you’re after a bargain. Independent shops, department stores and familiar high street names from the UK sell the top brands and, best of all, there’s no VAT to pay. When you’ve shopped ‘til you’ve dropped, grab a quick coffee or chill out over lunch.

9. Celebrate with the islanders The Battle of the Flowers every August is world-famous as one of the largest floral carnivals in Europe but there’s always something going on in Jersey. Take your pick from a packed calendar featuring everything from music festivals to foodie events and sports tournaments.

10. Visit the neighbours Hop aboard with Condor Ferries and pay a call on Jersey’s northern neighbours on the island of Guernsey. While there is sometimes a little local rivalry, everyone agrees the Channel Islands are unbeatable as an unrivalled holiday destination.