Located just off the coast of Normandy, Guernsey is a self-governing British Crown dependency and the second-largest of the Channel Islands. It’s home to a unique British-Norman culture, which includes the traditional local language of Guernésiais that draws on influences from French, Old Norse and English.
Things to do in Guernsey
Fascinating fortifications, literary legends and beautiful beaches - Guernsey offers all this and more.
Delve into the local history at Castle Cornet. This 13th-century fortification was built to defend the island and provide shelter for St. Peter Port’s harbour. Its atmospheric buildings house several museums, including the Maritime Museum, the Royal Guernsey Militia Museum and the Story of Castle Cornet. Don’t miss the exhibit dedicated to the 201 Squadron of the Royal Air Force - the only squadron affiliated with Guernsey.
Learn about Guernsey’s literary past. Hauteville House is the former home of French writer Victor Hugo and where he lived during his exile from France between 1856 and 1870. In addition to its picturesque garden, a highlight of the property is its top floor lookout where the author used to write. It offers sweeping views across St. Peter Port towards the offshore islands of Herm and Sark.
Explore the spectacular coastline. Guernsey is fringed by rugged coastal cliffs and beautiful beaches, the most famous of which is Cobo Bay. Overlooking the waters of the English Channel, its golden stretch of sand is backed by traditional tea rooms, fish and chip shops and gastro pubs where you can enjoy a refreshing drink at the end of the day. On Guernsey’s west coast is L'Eree Beach, where sheltered waters and rock pools make it an ideal destination for families.
Getting around Guernsey
Guernsey Airport is located in the island’s south and has flights to destinations across Europe. Regular ferries connect to St. Peter Port from Portsmouth, Pool and Weymouth in the United Kingdom, as well as from St. Malo, Dielette and Granville in France. Buses travel between the towns and villages that dot Guernsey while hiring a car or bicycle are popular ways of getting around the island.