Day 1: History and coffee
Morning: After breakfast at the family-run Pomme d’Or Hotel, located in central St. Helier, head to Mont Orgueil Castle. The views from the castle out to sea and along the coast are spectacular. Tours last around an hour and take you through 800 years of history. A guide points out the different castle defences including the portcullis and “murder holes”. The castle has a dressing up area where children can put on medieval costumes and play knights and princesses. Head down to the fishing port of Gorey for a coffee at the Seahorse Coffee Company, a funky coffee shop, or a bistro lunch at the Moorings Hotel.
Images courtesy of Visit Jersey.
Afternoon: Drive or take a bus from Gorey Pier to the La Houge Bie museum, the site of one of the ten oldest buildings in the world: it’s central chamber was built circa 4,000BC. Exhibits include a Celtic coin hoard. The site offers an insight into the layers of Jersey’s history up to the five-year German occupation during the Second World War. Entry is free for holders of an Island Pass.
Evening: Start at the Channel Islands Liquor Co and hear charismatic host and distillery manager Ollie Watts explain the process of gin and rum making and the variety of local botanicals and spices that the company use to produce their award-winning spirits.
Have dinner at The Loft: Pizzeria and Coffeehouse, co-founded by locals Dave Double and Rob Morton.
Day 2: Tunnels and markets
Morning: Visit the Jersey War Tunnels, a 1,000-metre subterranean complex that offers a fascinating insight into the German occupation. Pick up a set of headphones for the audio tour and read personal stories of the war as told by islanders who lived through it. Built to withstand air raids, the tunnels later housed a hospital. Tip: wear a jacket – it’s cold down there!
Have lunch at Beach Club, St. Brelade: the food is great – try the Tempura Calamari. The views are equally delicious.
Afternoon: Visit the scenic 150-year-old Corbiere Lighthouse and La Corbiere Causeway, which is only accessible at low tide. It’s the perfect spot for a sundowner.
Head back to St. Helier and browse the one-of-a-kind shops. Make time for The Central Market and Beresford Street Fish Market, which have both served the island community for over 200 years. Or visit the Jersey Museum, Art Gallery and Victorian House for more island history. Grab a drink at the Yard coffee shop.
Evening: Have dinner at La Bouche (Friday and Saturday evenings only). The menu is focused on organic local produce. An alternative for mid-week dining is Upstairs at Anley Street, with its small and intimate dining rooms. Family sharing is encouraged. Try some Jersey Pacific Oysters and the popular Upstair’s Pie.
jersey.com
Book it
Premier Holidays has a three-night break, staying at Pomme d’Or Hotel in St. Helier, starting from £355pp. Add £48pp per day for half-board.
premierholidays.co.uk
