Located 14 miles north of the French coast and 100 miles south of the English coast, Jersey, like all of the Channel Islands, is a unique place to visit. The islands have been ruled by both France and Britain and were the only part of the UK to be occupied by German forces during WWII.
While Jersey is the largest of the Channel Islands, it is still only 44 square miles. Nevertheless, there is more than enough for visitors to enjoy on package holidays on Jersey. Whether you choose to spend your weekend on Jersey staying in the island's capital, Saint Helier, or exploring the smaller towns and villages, city breaks on Jersey are an experience you'll never forget.
What to know before visiting Jersey
Although the British pound is accepted on Jersey, the island issues its own banknotes. Keep in mind that Jersey's currency may not be accepted elsewhere in the UK. The Channel Islands are in the same time zone as the rest of the UK, and the islands' official languages are French and English, though you may hear some older residents speaking the local dialect, Jèrriais, on your weekend on Jersey.
Flights to Jersey arrive at a small airport outside Saint Helier (JER), only a few miles from the centre. Flights to Jersey depart from many regional UK airports. You can fly to Jersey from Manchester and London airports, including Heathrow, Gatwick and London City.
When is the best time to visit Jersey?
Before you choose your flight to and hotel on Jersey, research the island's climate, which can be quite different from the rest of the UK's, especially in summer.
The average high temperature in July and August is 20°C, great for visiting Jersey's beaches or taking a dip in the English Channel! In winter, the island's temperatures are higher than elsewhere in the UK, with a January average of 8°C. Jersey enjoys plenty of sunshine, with over 250 hours during August, and though its winters can be wet, snowfall is rare.
What to do on Jersey
Make the most of the island location and see Jersey's coastal attractions. Enjoy a different view of the island by going sea kayaking, taking a boat trip into the channel or renting a jet ski if you prefer a bit more speed. Surfing is a popular activity on the island, and during the summer, there are schools on many of the most popular beaches for less experienced surfers.
If you would rather just relax and enjoy the sunshine, there is no shortage of beaches on Jersey where you can spend some time soaking up the sun. Beauport is a real sun trap, protected by high cliffs and boasting shallow water ideal for swimming. Havre de Pas, close to Saint Helier, is home to a beautiful Art Deco lido, still in use by visitors and locals alike, while the sandy beach at St Brelade's Bay is a favourite with families thanks to its beach activities and friendly cafés.
Take advantage of the island's quiet roads and explore Jersey by bicycle – numerous places in Saint Helier and elsewhere will rent you a bicycle. The best way to learn about the island's intriguing history and culture is to take a guided walking tour with a local. Alternatively, if you'd rather take things easy on Jersey package holidays, why not tour the island in an old-fashioned charabanc?
Places to visit on Jersey
Take a trip to Gorey, a small village dominated by dramatic Mont Orgueil Castle, built between the 13th and 15th centuries.
Saint Helier is home to Elizabeth Castle, located on an island that can only be reached by foot at low tide.
Explore the island's more recent history by visiting the Jersey War Tunnels, which were used by the Germans during their occupation of the island between 1940 and 1945.
Formula One fans should head to the Mansell Collection museum in Saint Helier, dedicated to Nigel Mansell's racing career and home to some of the cars he drove in the Grand Prix.
City breaks on Jersey wouldn't be complete without a trip to the Maritime Museum, also in Saint Helier. This fun and interactive museum, which focusses on an important part of the Channel Islands' history, is perfect for visitors of all ages.
If you also have time to explore the surrounding area, you can also rent a car in Jersey.
What to eat on Jersey
The island's climate is ideal for vineyards, and Jersey boasts a blossoming wine industry. Visitors to the island can tour some of the vineyards and sample their excellent product. Fresh fish and seafood dominate the menus of many of the island's restaurants. In summer, crab and lobster are particularly popular fillings for takeaway sandwiches, perfect for eating on the beach.
Jersey is well known for its Jersey Royal potatoes. Although these are available throughout the UK, the potatoes served on the island are fresh from the farm, and taste all the better for it!
What can you bring home from Jersey?
Visitors are spoilt for choice of souvenirs on Jersey. Bring back a souvenir of the island's unique history in the form of a Jersey flag or pennant, or if you have children to buy for, take back a toy Jersey cow, the breed for which the island is famous.
Many souvenir shops sell paintings and prints of popular Jersey scenes, the perfect way to remember your holiday. If you find yourself enjoying Jersey's cultural events, pick up some traditional Jersey clothing or a CD of some of the island's folk songs to remind you of your visit.
Explore other destinations
Planning on flying to United Kingdom? If a city break in Jersey doesn't quite convince you, why not explore other exciting cities in United Kingdom ? Check out our amazing flight and hotel packages for your next holiday adventure!