Channel Islands City Breaks

A guide to the Channel Islands

The Channel Islands are the perfect setting for relaxing short breaks from the UK, with a selection of attractive destinations, ideal for taking time out to enjoy the pretty towns and villages, and stunning natural scenery. The main towns of St. Peter Port and St. Helier on Guernsey and Jersey are both popular options for a city break and the islands’ locations just off the coast of northern France make them excellent options for summer getaways. Flights to the Channel Islands are available from the UK, and with easy transport by ferry and high-speed catamaran from Weymouth, Poole and Portsmouth on the south coast of England, the region is a convenient option for a weekend away.

Idyllic and traditional Guernsey

St. Peter Port, the capital of Guernsey, boasts a coastal location, making it a popular tourist hot-spot among the island’s many towns and villages. The attractive steep winding streets of St. Peter Port will keep you fit whilst wandering through the streets, and traditional buildings such as the Town Church and Castle Cornet add to the small town ambience. Eating out and entertainment in St. Peter Port is generally a high quality and low key affair, making for an enjoyable evening atmosphere. Other options include the parishes of Castel, with its surrounding areas of rural countryside, and St. Sampson, home to some of the island’s many attractive beaches.

Jersey, charming and friendly

The capital of Jersey, St. Helier is the largest parish of the Channel Islands, and has a range of accommodation options and a variety of activities to suit all tastes. St Helier’s history dates back to its Roman occupation, and many sites of historical interest are scattered throughout the town, such as Elizabeth Castle, the sculpted Face of St. Helier and the Hermitage of St. Helier. Whilst walking through the town, you will also enjoy the attractive buildings and architecture home to a collection of shops, boutiques and restaurants. The Central Market is one of St. Helier’s official Sites of Special Interest, comprising a Victorian indoor market with stalls selling fruit, vegetables and flowers, as well as cafes.