Ten reasons to visit JERSEY IN WINTER

Jersey is magnificent in summer when visitors from all over the world head to the beaches and stroll along the country lanes, but there are plenty of things to do in Jersey during the winter and you’ll find the towns and villages far less crowded. Join the locals as they enjoy their beautiful island in peace.

Why is Jersey such a great choice for a winter break?

Autumn can last a long time on Jersey, the southernmost of the Channel Islands. Summer gently ebbs away in September, thanks to the mild climate, then leaves turn to gold and the seasons move on as people start preparing for Christmas. Early in the New Year, you’ll have the beaches to yourself. More than 100,000 people live on Jersey.

They organise plenty of events every winter and like to welcome visitors at this special time of the year. Many of the best attractions and restaurants will still be open and it’ll be easier to get around, whether you take your car or travel by bus.  

Top ten things to do in Jersey in winter

Blow the cobwebs away outdoors

Enjoy a breezy walk along the coast, watching Atlantic waves crash onto the beach, or head inland for a tranquil country stroll before dropping into a welcoming local pub for a pie and a pint. Most of Jersey’s magnificent beaches are open for dogs during the winter, so don’t leave your four-legged friend at home.

 

Sample the seafood

Much of the island’s excellent fresh fish and seafood is in season over the winter, think oysters, turbot, clams and cockles.  Jersey’s chefs work their magic everywhere from beach cafés to swish restaurants, which of their award-winning dishes will you like best?

 

Warm up in a spa

Several of Jersey’s top hotels including L’Horizon and Grand Jersey offer luxury spa facilities where you can concentrate on wellbeing and recharging your batteries during your break. You can enjoy a swim, warm up in the sauna, relax during a soothing treatment and feel fantastic afterwards.

 

 

See Jersey’s wartime heritage at night

Re-live Jersey’s Second World War history on an atmospheric tour of bunkers and tunnels, not usually open to visitors. Learn how the Germans turned this peaceful island into a fortress and discover its connections to D-Day with Jersey War Tours.

Fly through the air on a zip wire

This has got to be unique. The Valley Adventure Centre at Les Ormes in St Brelade is open all year round and offers sky-high adventures in darkness throughout winter. If you’ve got a head for heights try aerial trekking - it ends with a 12-metre drop! Or what about the biggest swing in Jersey, reaching speeds of 50 mph?

See the stunning Mont Orgueil without the crowds

This jewel in Jersey’s crown is open at weekends throughout the winter. Explore the towers and turrets of this medieval castle above Gorey, run by Jersey Heritage, and discover its treasures without the rush of the summer crowds.

 

 

Paddle closer to nature in a kayak

There’s no such thing as bad weather, only poor clothing choices. Why not wrap up warm and take to the water with Absolute Adventures in St Brelade’s Bay to get up close and personal with the birdlife? Call them to make arrangements for out-of-season adventures.

Go on a walking tour

The experts at Jersey Heritage want everyone to discover the island’s heritage all year round. Check out their website for self-guided walking tours covering topics including Jersey in wartime, Elizabeth Castle, the Ice Age and the story of millionaire and philanthropist Thomas Benjamin Davis.

Runaway to France

Did you know you’re only a short hop from the historic city of St Malo in Brittany? Take your passport and sail there direct with Condor Ferries from St Helier to enjoy some Breton hospitality and a bracing walk along the city walls.

 

 

Talk to the animals at Jersey Zoo

Channel your inner Dr Doolittle and take some amazing selfies at Jersey’s top animal attraction, founded by renowned naturalist Gerald Durrell. It’s open every day except Christmas Day.

Get into the festive spirit in St Helier

Jersey’s lively capital celebrates Christmas in style – they call it La Fête dé Noué. Twinkling lights in the narrow streets put everyone into a holiday mood when the illuminations are switched on in late November. Festive touches such as a traditional pantomime and carol concerts combine with late night shopping and the best local food and drink to make the season bright.

 

Christmas starts here

Christmas shopping is a pleasure across the island. High Street stores and boutique shops have an amazing range of perfect gifts, perhaps you should treat yourself to something special as well? Best of all, you’ll find the island’s tax-free prices will make those decisions even more tempting.

Go back in time in St Helier at The Victorian House Jersey Museum. Gaslights will welcome you inside this historic building where you’ll find beautiful gifts crafted by island artisans. This is a must-visit if you are in St Helier over the weekend of Saturday 30 November— Sunday 1 December. Head up to the Jersey War Tunnels for a Christmas Market with a difference. The tunnel complex is open on the weekend of Saturday 30 November – Sunday 1 December with a two-for-one offer on tickets and a unique market in the 1940s- themed Vega Café.

Start 2020 in style on Jersey

Welcome in the New Year in one of Jersey’s best hotels where award-winning chefs use superb local produce to create their dishes and a glass of Champagne at midnight marks the occasion. When the festive season is over and the dark months of January and February lie ahead, why not beat the blues by booking a short break in Jersey? We’ve given you an insight into how magical Jersey is around the Christmas period, but now you need to visit and see for yourself! Click to start booking your perfect break to Jersey.