Part of the British Isles, or Channel Islands, Guernsey is a unique vacation destination offering stunning beaches, cliff paths and neighbouring islands that are perfect for day trips. Although mild in climate, the island receives more sunshine than nearby Britain, making a fantastic backdrop for al fresco dining, walks, sporting events and more great activities. If you're planning a visit, read on for a guide to the best Guernsey tourist attractions.
Guernsey Museum at Candie
Located in the Victorian Candie Gardens, the Guerney Museum offers a fascinating look at the history and archaeology of the island. It is home to the Rona Cole Art Gallery, a display of permanent works; the Discovery Room, which is perfect for families; a temporary exhibition gallery that has a frequent rotation of art; and The Greenhouse, showcasing contemporary art. There is also a gift shop that is not to be missed. If you're looking for refreshments during your visit, Café Victoria offers snacks and light meals. Victoria Tower, the Priaulx Library and Victoria Candie Cemetary are nearby. The museum is open daily from 10am to 4pm, with hours extended until 5pm after March 29th. Entry costs £6.00 for adults, £4.50 for seniors, £1.50 for students and children 7 and older and £13.00 for families. Children under 7 get in free.
The Little Chapel
One of the world's smallest chapels, The Little Chapel is located at the Blanchelande Girls College in Les Vauxbelets, St. Andrew. Built in 1914, it is a miniature version of Lourdes' grotto and basilica in France. Decorated with a beautiful array of pebbles, shells and pieces of colourful china, the College's ongoing repairs have kept the chapel in stunning condition. Entry is free but donations are welcome.
La Vallette Underground Military Museum
La Vallette Underground Military Museum is situated in a tunnel complex originally built by German forces. Ideal for history buffs, this attraction covers the island's military history, including World Wars I and II and the Guernsey militia. Interesting exhibitions of memorabilia offer a wealth of information, including on the island's occupation by Germany. Many militia collections and genuine collectibles are showcased with books available for purchase. Closed in Winter, the museum is open from 10am to 5pm from mid-March to mid-November. Entry costs £6.00 for adults, £4.50 for seniors and £3.50 for students.
Pleinmont Observation Tower
Five stories, this naval observation tower was constructed by German forces and used between 1942 and 1945, during their World War II occupation. It houses the original rangefinders, which are still operational, and there is also a gun site nearby. Open Sundays only from 2 to 5pm, April through October. Entry costs £3.00 for adult and £1.50 for children.
St. Peter Port
A harbour town, St. Peter Port is a top Guernsey attraction. The island's capital, it is home to a beautiful church, Candie Gardens, Hauteville House, St. James Concert Hall, Castle Cornet and more. There are many quaint shops and boutiques, as well as galleries, cafes and restaurants, making it perfect for shopping and enjoying a meal or coffee.
Sculpture Park and Subtropical Garden at Sausmarez Manor
A Royal Horticultural Society partner garden, Sausmarez Manor's Sculpture Park and Subtropical Garden features more sculptors' work than anywhere else in Britain. Located within the manor's beautiful grounds, there are a number of other great attractions that can be found here, including a cafe, and both house and ghost tours are available. The vast array of art, as well as the unique plants, are two great reasons to visit. Entry is free and it is open daily, from 10am to 5pm, all year round.
Hauteville House
Victor Hugo, the author of the famous Les Misérables, lived on Guernsey Island after being exiled from France. His one-time home, Hauteville House, has since been turned into an attraction and museum, offering visitors the chance to learn about the author and the history of the island and its connection to France. It is the ideal tourist hotspot for literature aficionados. It is located at 38 Hauteville, in St. Peter Port.
Cobo Bay Hotel
An attraction often recommended by locals, the Cobo Bay Hotel offers a breathtaking beach, the best fish 'n' chips on the island and a splendid sunset. A great place to stop for lunch or dinner during a day of sightseeing, the restaurant is one of the most popular in Guernsey, and guests of the hotel are never disappointed. It is located on Cobo Coast Road in Castel.
The Bailiwick of Guernsey Millennium Tapestry
A millennial project, the Bailiwick of Guernsey Millennium Tapestry's 10 embroidered panels illustrate an astonishing 1,000 years of local history. Both beautiful and iconic, island-wide participation saw each parish creating one of the panels. Well worth visiting, it is located in the Guernsey Tapestry Gallery on College Street in St. Peter Port and audio explanations of each section are available.
Shell Beach
A TripAdvisor Traveller's Choice winner in 2014 for beaches, Guernsey's Shell Beach is incredible to say the least. Located in Herm, the water is crisp and clear and the sand, soft and golden, offers a wide variety of shells to be found. Bathroom facilities and refreshments are available nearby, and this attraction is perfect for families with children looking to spend an afternoon in the sun.
Castle Cornet
A St. Peter Port landmark, Castle Cornet is a can't-miss historic site that offers excellent views, tours, a daily gun-firing ceremony with 19th century costumes, a delightful café and more. An ancient royal fortress, it's nearly 8 centuries old and is home to 5 historical museums displaying information, artifacts and more on topics such as the Maritimes, the Militia and the Light Infantry. April through September, Guernsey History in Action enacts historical island stories beginning at 215pm Tuesday through Sunday. There is also a cafe, childrens' activities, period gardens and more available to explore. Entry costs £10.00 for adults, £8.00 for seniors, £2.50 for children over 7 and seniors and £23.00 for families, including 2 adults. Late day admission, which begins at 4pm, costs just £1.00 for adults. Children under 7 are free. Castle Cornet is open from 10am to 5pm every day beginning March 28th.
All images via Flickr, CC License
