5 Things to do in St Helier, Jersey

I spent a few days in Jersey and although it was a “relax and revive” trip, I did wander a bit. In this post, I’m highlighting 5 things to do in one of its Parishes, St Helier which is right in the center of Jersey.

Before you settle into what I got up to in Jersey, the prequel Solo in St Helier, Jersey should give the most accurate introduction so have a read prior to this post.

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A little Jersey History

Jersey is the largest of the Channel Islands and is located somewhere between England and France. In fact, it is closer to France than it is to England. What makes Jersey quite special is that no matter what part of the Island you are, you are never too far away from the sea!

It is important to note that Jersey is not in the United Kingdom. It can best be described as a British crown dependency. These days, it is more of a financial hub than a tourist location. It used to be the number 1 tourist location from the UK until transatlantic fights became popular and everyone discovered Spain and Portugal lol!

Jersey has 12 parishes. For my 3-day visit, I stayed in St Helier, which is the most populated of the 12.

Top 5 things to do in St Helier, Jersey

1. Visit Elizabeth Castle

Located on an islet in St Aubin’s bay. Getting there is quite special. In low tide, you can actually walk along a visible path to the castle. In high tide, a ferry is required as the pathway closes up! It is a lush way to spend a day exploring the bunkers and hidden rooms. It is important to note that going to Elizabeth castle is subject to tidal conditions! The castle is open 10am to 5.30pm up until 1 November. For more information, including cost of booking ferry and castle, visit Jersey Heritage website.

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2. Jersey Museum & Art Gallery

A cute museum with an even cuter courtyard bar and bistro. The museum and art gallery showcases Jersey’s history through centuries. It highlights how far the island has come. More interestingly, it gives an insight to its English Crown Dependency. There is also a free viewing of the “Story of Jersey” film. Entrance is £10.60 for adults, student & children pay £6.90, seniors pay £9.55.

3. Visit the Liberation Square

Located in Place Esplanade, Liberation Square is a lovely place to hang out. It is a base from which you start exploring the island as the bus station and tourist center are nearby. The statue is of the islanders holding up the Union flag to represent the liberation from the German Army in 1945. Very interesting and striking at the same time! The square is adjacent to the famous Pomme D’Or hotel and is surrounded by benches and fountains. There are fish and chips shops, bars and restaurants around the square for a lovely day out. If people-watching is you thing, this is the place to do it!

4. Head to Elizabeth Marina Harbor

Right in front of Radisson Blu Hotel, it is operated by Ports of Jersey and is one of the marinas local to St Helier. It is currently the venue for the annual Jersey Boat Show. You can find hundred of yachts berth on the marina. It serves as a lush picture backdrop and a lovely spot to view the sun setting or rising. You can walk around the harbor and just off the marina, is the Elizabeth castle in full view!

5. Visit the Jersey Beaches

St Aubin’s Bay is a long stretch and you can walk on its promenade for scenic views. A trip west to St Ouen’s Bay for the best surf bay you will ever see. While you are there, have lunch at the popular spot, El Tico. For a more special evening, catch the sun set over the bay! It’s the best sunset point in Jersey! For beach activities, head southwest to St Brelade’s Bay. The beach is quite impressive if you don’t mind the busy vibes. It is popular for its water sports due to its safe swimming rating.

Things to note about Jersey

1. Language is English. A tiny few speak French. Their “local” language is Jèrrais, which is Jersey French. Considering how close the island is to Normandy, I was surprised that more people didn’t speak French.
2. Currency – British Pound. I used my UK debit card there for free as I would use in London.
3. Jersey is NOT a country. Neither is it in another country. It does seem confusing but it is what it is.
4. You cannot buy a house in Jersey except you are a citizen or you have a special pass. This pass is usually given to some people to come there for work.

Jersey is a really lovely little country island to visit. It helps that it is just under 40mins from London Gatwick. It probably gets busier in summer months just like any sea/beach town. 

Related Post

• Solo in St Helier, Jersey

Thoughts on Jersey….

Although I have written only 5 things to do in St Helier, as you can imagine there is a lot more to do. I tend to advice on things I have personally done and since it was a chill trip, I did not get up to much. It is a small island but packs in a lot. I would have loved to explore many other parishes a bit more. If I had more time, I would have visited some churches and even the War Museum as well. So perhaps, add those to your list when you do visit.

Until next time,

Bisous, ‘Bugo x