Jersey Holidays

Best time to go to Jersey

Jersey has a climate similar to the UK's, with fairly mild winters and warm summers. Sun-seekers will be delighted to hear that it’s officially the sunniest place in the British Isles, making summer a wonderful time to visit and enjoy the island’s magical beaches. If you’re not visiting with kids, you can save money and avoid some of the crowds by coming outside the summer holiday months of July and August. May – June and September- October are great bets for a slightly quieter trip. 9th May is Liberation Day, a huge, colourful celebration marking the end of the island’s occupation during the Second World War.

How to get to Jersey

Travellers from the UK have two options for getting to Jersey: by air or by sea. Flights operate from a dozen or so airports across the country, with times ranging from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours, depending on where you’re flying from. There’s a bus stop in front of the airport that takes visitors directly to St Helier, the capital, in under 30 minutes. Alternatively, travellers can take a ferry from either Poole or Portsmouth. The former is a much quicker option at just 4 hours, while the Portsmouth crossing takes around 10. Ferries dock at the port in St Helier, so you can get straight on with sightseeing.

Getting around Jersey

Jersey is a small island just 5 miles long and 9 miles wide, so there are plenty of ways to get around. For those bringing a car on the ferry or hiring a vehicle upon arrival, there are 350 miles of paved roads to explore – just note that the max speed limit is 40 mph. If you’d prefer not to drive, LibertyBus has a number of routes linking all the island’s main attractions to the capital of St Helier. Jersey is also a fantastic place to walk and cycle, with a 48-mile network of Green Lanes where the speed limit is 15 mph and cyclists and pedestrians have priority over cars.

Things to do in Jersey

Jersey has a fascinating and perhaps underappreciated history, and there’s nowhere more interesting to learn about it than the War Tunnels. This underground complex was excavated by forced labourers during the Occupation and now tells the story of life under the German regime. Looking further back in time, Elizabeth Castle and Mont Orgueil are both majestic monuments well worth a visit. For something totally different, head to the beautiful La Mare Wine Estate, where you can take a tour of the vineyards and sample the goods. There’s also a café, large gardens and even an adventure playground for the kids.

Activities for families in Jersey

Families on a Jersey holiday will love Jersey Zoo, which is home to over 130 species, with a focus on rare and endangered animals. With everything from gorillas to meerkats and flamingos, it’s sure to be a hit with little ones. If you fancy getting active, try AquaSplash in St Helier, which features a wave machine, three flumes and an outdoor pool for those long, sunny days of summer. Just across the water is the Maritime Museum, which is great for kids with its interactive exhibits celebrating the island’s seafaring past, including the chance to learn how to design a ship.

Free things to do in Jersey

The first port of call for free things to do on your holiday to Jersey is the Town Hall in St Helier, where you can take a free guided walk on Thursdays at 10:30 am. Each guide from the Jersey Tour Guides Association puts its own spin on the walk, so there’s something new every week. Afterwards, check out ArtHouse Jersey at Capital House, a multipurpose arts space showcasing everything from visual arts to dance, music, film and poetry. If it’s landmarks you’re after, check out Le Hocq Tower, a striking coastal fortification open to visitors for free, with an informative exhibition inside.

Nature & Outdoors in Jersey

Although it may be small, Jersey is blessed with fantastic nature. Queen’s Valley Reservoir is a tranquil spot with a gently undulating path perfect for strolling and spotting the birdlife that calls the reservoir home. On the other side of the island, Val de la Mare Arboretum is a forest full of unusual trees from around the world, which flourish thanks to Jersey’s temperate climate. For an otherworldly experience, take a speedboat ride to Les Ecréhous, a tiny archipelago of islets 6 miles off the coast. You’ll be rewarded with aquamarine water, incredible sunsets, and wildlife, including dolphins, seals and basking sharks.

Discover Jersey's premier beaches

Explore the picturesque beaches of Jersey. Each offers its unique charm and array of activities, making them a must-visit for holidaymakers.

• Grève de Lecq: Nestled in the north, this family-friendly beach boasts sheltered sands and shallow waters, ideal for a fun day out with children. Its rock pools are a natural playground for exploration.

• Plémont Bay: For those seeking tranquillity, Plémont Bay, accessible via a scenic flight of steps, offers seclusion against a backdrop of stunning cliffs. Its slightly hidden location makes it a serene escape.

• St Ouen’s Bay: A haven for surfers on the west coast, this extensive beach is celebrated for its impressive Atlantic swells. Spanning miles, it's a perfect spot for catching waves or enjoying the expansive views.

• St Brelade’s Bay: Located in the south, St Brelade’s Bay is renowned for its safe swimming conditions and excellent watersports facilities. Its vibrant atmosphere makes it a popular choice for both locals and visitors.

• Portelet Bay: Embark on an adventure to Portelet Bay, where a short journey rewards you with the sight of the intriguing Île au Guerdain and its historic tower tomb. Its secluded sands offer a peaceful retreat.

Jersey's beaches are jewels in the island's crown, offering everything from adventurous watersports and serene swimming spots to family-friendly shores and secluded bays. Each beach presents a unique aspect of Jersey's natural beauty and maritime heritage, making them essential stops on your Jersey holiday itinerary.

What to eat in Jersey

Jersey has an outsized reputation when it comes to cuisine. While you’re here, you’ll definitely want to sample fresh Jersey Royal potatoes as well as indulgent dairy products like yoghurt and ice cream from the island’s famed cows. Unsurprisingly, seafood is a big deal too, with lobster and oyster particularly popular.

Local dishes in Jersey

Jersey's culinary scene is a delightful exploration of local flavours and traditional dishes. Here are some highlights:

• Jersey Royal Potatoes: Celebrated for their unique taste, these potatoes are a must-try local produce.

• Seafood: The island's location provides an abundance of fresh seafood, including oysters, mussels, and lobster.

• Dairy Products: Jersey cows are famous for their rich milk, which is used to produce creamy butter and ice cream.

Street food

While Jersey may not have a street food scene in the traditional sense, numerous beach cafés and kiosks around the island offer delicious, quick bites perfect for a day out exploring. Whether you're craving a sea view brunch or an afternoon tea, there are plenty of spots to satisfy your appetite.

Typical Drinks

• Liberation Ale: Brewed locally, this ale is a favourite among both locals and visitors.

• Cider: With its thriving apple orchards, Jersey produces some exceptional ciders.

• Jersey Cream Liqueur: A smooth, creamy liqueur that's a testament to the island's dairy heritage.

Jersey's rich history, vibrant culture, and abundance of locally sourced produce make it a year-round gem for foodies. Whether you're here to relax or explore, Jersey's culinary offerings are as diverse as its landscapes.

Exploring Jersey's cafes and tearooms, you'll find over 40 beachside spots where you can enjoy everything from award-winning breakfasts to indulgent afternoon teas, showcasing the island's local produce and culinary flair.

Local sports events in Jersey

Jersey's sporting calendar is filled with events that draw both local and international participants. Notable events include:

• Jersey Marathon: An annual fixture since 2006, attracting runners from around the globe.

• Itex-Rotary Walk: A challenging around-the-island walk covering 48.1 miles, showcasing Jersey's stunning coastline.

• Jersey Spartan Athletics Club: Offers various athletic events and has a rich history of participation in the Olympics.

Sports facilities for travellers in Jersey

Jersey provides excellent facilities for travellers looking to stay active:

• Swimming Pools: The island boasts public indoor swimming pools for laps or leisurely swims.

• Yoga and Fitness: Numerous studios and clubs offer yoga, fitness classes, and personal training sessions.

• Tennis Courts: Available for those who wish to play tennis, with equipment often available for hire.

Cycling in Jersey

Cycling is a popular activity in Jersey, supported by:

• Bike Rental: Various outlets offer bike rentals, making it easy to explore the island on two wheels.

• Popular Cycling Routes: Scenic routes such as the Jersey Town Criterium provide a mix of challenge and beauty, appealing to all levels of cyclists.

Hiking in Jersey

Jersey's diverse landscape makes it a fantastic destination for hiking, with coastal paths and inland trails offering breathtaking views and encounters with local wildlife.

Water sports in Jersey

The island's relationship with the sea means water sports are a significant attraction:

• Surfing, windsurfing, and kayaking are popular, with St Ouen’s Bay being a hotspot for surfers.

• Sailing and paddleboarding offer more ways to enjoy Jersey's clear waters.

Golf courses in Jersey

Golfers will find Jersey a paradise, with courses like La Moye Golf Club providing world-class facilities against the backdrop of the island's natural beauty.

These insights into Jersey's sports scene reveal an island that celebrates active living and outdoor pursuits, with facilities and events catering to a wide range of interests and skill levels. Whether you're participating in a local sports event, exploring the island's landscapes, or enjoying water-based activities, Jersey offers a rich and varied sporting experience.