Expert guide to St Helier

Elizabeth Castle is built on a rocky islet off St Helier and has been the island’s forefront of defense for over 400 years. In the castle you’ll be able to climb the battlements that date back to the 1590’s, as well as explore the grounds that held King Charles II refuge during the English Civil War. There are many hidden rooms, bunkers and spiral staircases to be discovered, with audio tours and volunteer tour guides ensuring you can make the most out of your visit.

Jersey Opera House first started off as “Cornwall’s Royal Amphitheatre and Circus” when it was first built by Henry Cornwall in 1865. Three years later, the Amphitheatre was brought out by the actor who was hired as a manager there, William Wybert Rousby, who then renamed it “The Theatre Royal”. Now, after multiple owners and renovations, visitors can book to see various performances as well as enjoy the gorgeous architecture.

The Lord Coutanche Library in St Helier supports the work of the Société Jersiaise and is where you’ll find collections of material related to Jersey’s history and natural environment. The library is based on Pier Road in the capital and is a welcoming and calming place where you can lose yourself in the impressive selection of prints, books, maps and more.

The Lighthouse Memorial stands just outside the Maritime Museum at St Helier Harbour and was built in 1996 to commiserate the 22 islanders who did not return to the island from concentration camps and prisons during the Second World War. It is a moving and significant landmark that shows an important part of the island’s history.

The Tapestry Gallery is based within the Maritime Museum, and here you will find the Occupation Tapestry. It was woven by the islanders to celebrate the 50-year anniversary of Liberation Day. The tapestry has 13 unique panels that show you through the fascinating story with 12 of the panels being created in each parish, and the final panel touring through all 12 parishes. There is so much detail that every time you visit, you’ll see something different.

King Street, also known as Rue de Derrière (meaning back street in French) is one of the two parts that make up the high street in St Helier. It is pedestrianized street where you’ll find an impressive array of shops and quirky cafés to peruse on your Jersey visit. There are a few of the major high street chain shops there to be explored, as well as a few unique Jersey gems where you’ll find authentic island goods you won’t be able to find anywhere else.

Halkett Street is named after Sir Colin Halkett, the Lieut-Governor of the island from 1821- 1830 and in the middle of the road’s stretch, you’ll find the entrance to the grand Central Market. The market is a wonder where you can pick up fresh fruit and vegetables, locally caught fish and meat, as well as an abundance of souvenirs and hand-crafted goods fully complete with the island charm.

The Drifter’s Bar and Bistro is one of the best places to eat in St Helier. Its location at Les Havre des Pas situated underneath the Maison Chaussey Guest House means it has fantastic views over the south-coast seas. It has a friendly and welcoming vibe, with options on the menu including some of the fresh sea fare caught in local waters.

Tassili Restaurant is a restaurant to the west of St Helier and is part of the Jersey Grand Hotel and Spa. Tassili is a 4 Rosette awarded hotel serving up an exquisite modern menu with a unique Jersey twist showcasing the island’s seasonal ingredients. On the menu you can expect to find Jersey lobster, wild turbot and Scottish venison with an artisan cheese plate to finish it all off.

Moitas Bistro is perfectly placed opposite the Havre de Pas bathing pool and is the best place to go for a refuel during a lazy day on the coast. Moitas is an authentic family run Portuguese bistro, serving up classic Portuguese cuisine using Jersey’s local ingredients. You’ll be able to order fish fresh from the sea, as well as the Portuguese specialties, chicken and steak espetada.

Bellagio is a traditional Italian restaurant on Charing Cross near the toad statue! The restaurant specializes in high-quality Italian food, and its impressive array of dishes on the menu will mean all types of appetite will be satisfied. Vittorio is the delightful landlord who will graciously show you in and explain the menu, so you feel right at home knowing what to order. Expect delicious pasta dishes, exquisite meat and fish plates on offer, all perfectly topped off with a traditional Italian tiramisu.

La Taverne is one of the longest-running Italian restaurants in St Helier with its doors opening in 1982. The restaurant has that classic Italian hospitality of making every visitor feel welcome, and the wide selection of dishes on the menu mean that every age and appetite will be able to find something delicious to feed their hunger. On the menu you’ll be able to find everything from pasta to scallops, lobster and duck.

The Bistro Rosa is one of the many places to eat in St Helier that specializes in the fresh seafood from Jersey waters. Conveniently based next to the fish market, the bistro makes the most out of the daily catch to create sensational dishes that enhance the fresh flavours. It is slightly hidden in the market so you need to keep your eyes alert and make sure to get a table as it can get very busy!