Places to visit in Guernsey

There are a whole host of places to visit in Guernsey. On some of our other pages we take a look at the larger tourist attractions, beaches, Occupation related attractions and walks in Guernsey but there are many other intriguing things you may see on the island including historical burial mounds and a range of forts and defences dating from throughout the centuries. It’s here that you may just capture the spirit of some of Guernsey’s famous myths and legends!

Vale Castle

Defensive stone castle dating back to the 15th century on the north east of the island, often used as a venue for entertainment .

Château Des Marais

Located in St Peter Port and built in 13th century but abandoned, Château Des Marais was refortified during the late 18th century and again during the Occupation.

Le Vaux de Monal and La Varde Rock

Situated in an area owned by The National Trust of Guernsey, the woodland valley overlooks Rocquaine Bay. It includes La Varde Passage Grave, a megalithic chamber with 6 flat capstones and the more recent commemorative Millenium Stone.

Le Creuxès Faies Passage Tomb

Just north of L’Eree bay reputedly lies the entrance to the Fairy Kingdom: a megalithic tomb dating to between 3,000 and 2,500 BC.

Le Dehus Burial Chamber

One of Guernsey’s oldest prehistoric passage graves with carvings.

La Gran’mère du Chimquière

Thought to bring good luck and bestow fertility, the 4,000 year old statue-menhir is situated at the gate of St Martin’s parish church.

Les Fouaillages

Situated on L’Ancresse Common, the Neolithic burial mound is surrounded by several others.

Table des Pions- The Fairy Ring

In local folklore the site is linked with fairies, witches and elves and the locals call it the Fairy Ring.

Le Trépied Megalithic Burial Chamber

Supposedly where witches met, the chamber tomb overlooks Perelle Bay.

Rousse Tower

19th century tower, built to defend against French invasion.

Clarence Battery

The last remaining trace of Fort George is at La Valette. Built in 1870 during the French Revolution, it also housed the Luftwaffe early warning system during WWII.

Fort Pezeries

Looking out on Rocquaine Bay, the 18th century gun platform now houses three canon.

Fort Doyle

Originally built to fortify against French invasion, strategically placed at Fontenelle Bay, Fort Doyle was taken over by German forces during WWII.

Fort Le Marchant

Northern coastal fort and barracks originally dating from 1680 with 18th century additions. Beware if a red flag is flying as it indicates a rifle range is in use close by!

Bluebell Woods

South of St Peter Port is an area of woodland leading to the south east coastal paths. Known as ‘Bluebell Woods’ the footpaths are great to visit at any time of year but are swathed in a wonderful carpet of blue in spring time.

For photos and art connected with some of the Guernsey attractions, take a look at Guernsey Scenes images of Guernsey.

Day trips to the other Bailiwick Islands

Herm

Undoubtedly one of Herm’s main attractions is Shell Beach with its powder white sand and turquoise sea. However Herm is also renown for its wonderful flora and fauna and it’s worth taking the Trident Boat from St Peter Port over to the island for a Herm Island Garden Tour. The more adventurous might like to try touring the island by kayak with Outdoor Guernsey.

Sark

The Avenue or main street in Sark is where you’ll find quaint shops, cafés, pubs, be able to hire bikes or take a carriage ride around the rest of the island as cars are not allowed. Visit:

La Seigneurie Estate and Gardens – dating back to 1675 with a maze, museum, dove house, chapel and tea rooms. Gardens open March to October 10am – 5pm.

Caragh Chocolates – Delicious chocolates made on the premises which can be packaged and sent. Tea room, gardens and swimming pool.

Adventure Sark – Provide coasteering and kayaking around and in the cliffs and caves of Sark

George Guille’s Island Boat Trips – Discover caves, wildlife and maybe see puffins and dolphins on a Sark Island boat trip aboard the Non Pareil with George Guille.

Brecqhou and Jethou

Although both islands are owned privately, it is possible to arrange a trip from Sark to Brecqhou to view the gardens and village there.

Alderney

The most fortified of The Channel Islands during The Occupation, Alderney’s mix of tranquil beauty and stark defences are quite a contrast. A haven for wildlife, the island is also known for its puffins and blonde hedgehogs!