Guernsey is the perfect destination for those looking for a holiday filled with adventure or relaxation accompanied by stunning scenery. Located just 209 miles off the coast of England, Guernsey is an idyllic Channel Island that offers a wide range of activities and attractions. From its picturesque beaches to its rolling countryside, Guernsey has something to offer everyone.
The capital of St Peter Port provides plenty of shopping and dining opportunities while also offering a fascinating glimpse into the island’s history. With plenty of outdoor activities such as kayaking and hiking, there’s no shortage of ways to explore Guernsey’s diverse landscape. Whether you’re looking for an action-packed adventure or just want to relax in one of the many tranquil spots around the island, Guernsey is sure to provide you with an unforgettable holiday experience!
Everything a Guernsey Holiday has to Offer
Whilst many venture into international waters for their holiday to Guernsey, there is an ever-growing group of travellers staying closer to home. Nestled in the English Channel between England and France, Guernsey is a phenomenal destination for a break at any time of year. Boasting the comfort and familiarity of home with a dash of French influence and scenery that could rival the best European cities and beaches, Guernsey is a top destination.
Perfect for a couple’s weekend escape or an extended family holiday, Guernsey has something to offer every type of traveller. From trips packed with adventure and activity to relaxing vacations lazing out on the beach and checking out the spa, Guernsey is an impressive and well-rounded holiday destination that caters to all.
Convenient Travel from the UK
Guernsey is an excellent holiday choice for travellers from the UK looking for a vacation spot that involves minimal travel time. Located just over 200 miles from the coast of England, Guernsey is conveniently located for a quick trip away with short journey times. Guernsey offers frequent, quick and convenient connections year-round to multiple UK airports. Flights from the UK to Guernsey are quick and easy with flights from many UK airports having a journey time of under an hour.
The UK currently operates a flight schedule to Guernsey from 14 UK airports. This includes daily routes from London Gatwick, Manchester and Southampton whilst many other major international UK airports offer flights multiple times a week. In addition, a number of smaller regional airports offer seasonal flight schedules throughout the summer months providing easier access to the island during Guernsey’s peak travel season. The majority of flights are operated by Guernsey’s own airline Aurigny whilst a number of other UK airlines also offer flights to the island.
Alternatively, for those wishing to travel by sea, Condor Ferries operates frequent services from both Poole and Portsmouth. Whilst travelling to Guernsey by sea comes with enhanced travel time, this method of transport can be convenient to those wanting to travel with their own vehicle, have unlimited luggage allowance or perhaps holiday with a pet.
In addition to the abundance of travel options available from the UK, Guernsey also operates flights to multiple European destinations. As a major international hub, Dublin has regular flights to Guernsey. Other European destinations are infrequent and often seasonal but Guernsey also offer flight schedules to and from Barcelona, Dusseldorf, Grenoble, Ibiza, Mallorca, Malaga and Rennes. In addition, there is one ferry service in operation between Guernsey and France connecting St Peter Port to St Malo.
To top it off, Guernsey also offers frequent connections via both air and sea to neighbouring Channel Islands Jersey and Alderney.
No Travel Requirements from the UK
Guernsey is part of the Common Travel Area and upholds the same immigration controls as the UK. If you are travelling from within the Common Travel Area (the UK, Ireland and Crown Dependencies) it is not required to carry identification for immigration purposes and you are entitled to travel freely. However, airlines and ferry companies require identification for travel so please confirm the accepted methods of identification by your airline or ferry operator prior to travel.
As a result of Brexit, from November 2023, the majority of European destinations will require UK nationals to have an ETIAS visa. The ETIAS visa requires additional paperwork and additional fees for EU travel. Whilst approved immediately in the majority of cases, ETIAS can take up to 48 hours to be approved and therefore limits last minute travel plans.
Guernsey is a British territory and not a member of the EU, therefore this requirement does not apply to UK nationals visiting Guernsey. UK nationals will be able to visit Guernsey without additional paperwork, without additional fees and with options to travel to the island at short notice.
Excellent Transportation Options
Getting around Guernsey is a breeze with various transportation options.
For those looking to drive in Guernsey, exploring the island is quite straightforward since all the roads are clearly marked. Plus, UK residents do not need to adjust to a different driving style since they drive on the same side of the road. Car hire is a great option since it is both convenient and reasonably priced. Alternatively, you can also bring your own vehicle if you choose to take the ferry.
Guernsey boasts an outstanding public transportation system, making travelling to and from the airport, towns and attractions effortless. The connections between the different points of interest are seamless. In addition, two of the most popular ways to experience Jersey are by biking and walking. They both provide an enjoyable way to explore the area.
Guernsey Climate
With its exceptional climate, Guernsey is one of the best places to visit with great conditions throughout the year. During summer months, temperatures stay warm while in winter they remain mild. On average, temperatures peak at 20ºC with some days having a Mediterranean-like feel to it. Enjoy hot summers and comfortable winters exploring Guernsey.
Attractions and Activities
Guernsey has a lot to offer; from its warm weather and convenient travel to its exhilarating attractions, stunning beaches and remarkable points of interest. It’s definitely a great place to visit and worth exploring.
Guernsey is a great place for families to spend time together, enjoying the scenery of its quaint villages, admiring the views from its charming harbours and relaxing on breathtaking beaches. There are also lots of family-friendly attractions around the island.
History lovers can explore the many castles, war sites and museums located on the island. Moreover, adrenaline junkies will find Guernsey to be a playground of adventure with myriad outdoor activities including water sports and high ropes courses. Those who love to be active will find plenty of hiking spots and cycling trails to navigate with fascinating landmarks and points of interest along the way.
For a more relaxing Guernsey experience, you can enjoy award-winning cuisine, renowned spas and tranquil scenery to make your getaway even more special.
Boasting of dramatic coastal landscapes, lush countryside and mesmerising sunset views, the island is also a paradise for nature lovers. Its incredible natural beauty makes it an ideal place to relax and unwind.
Holidays for All
Holidays in Guernsey are ideal for all kinds of traveller – from family vacationers to couples, thrill-seekers and those in search of peace and quiet. The island is incredibly diverse and welcoming, ensuring that everyone has a great time here.
Guernsey is an outstanding holiday destination where you can do as much or as little as you’d like. With a wealth of things to do for those hoping for a jam packed trip as well as endless relaxation for those wanting an idyllic break, this island truly has something for everyone and is guaranteed to offer a perfect getaway that suits your needs.
Guernsey Family Holidays
Guernsey is the ideal destination for a family holiday, with activities suitable for all age groups. Whether it’s toddlers, teens or grandparents, everyone can have a great time and create wonderful memories on this beautiful island. No matter how old you are, there’s plenty to do and see in Guernsey.
There’s always something exciting to find on the island from museums to water sports – so you are never far away from a fun experience. With attractions scattered across the island, wherever you base yourself in Guernsey, there will be plenty to keep the whole family entertained.
Nestled in the heart of nature, this island offers a wealth of opportunities for your family to enjoy scenic views, sandy beaches and serene woodland. Whether you spend time indoors or out, there is no doubt your family will enjoy quality time exploring and uncovering all that Guernsey has to offer.
Just a stone’s throw from the UK with a minimal travel time, Guernsey is the perfect destination for families to visit, especially those travelling with little ones. Flights are short and conveniently timed making it a perfect destination to holiday with smaller travellers. With regular and often daily flights, it can be easy to find the ideal departure time in the blur of busy family life. Plus, with no change in time zone, your routine can remain intact even whilst on holiday.
When travelling with a family, a holiday can get pricey pretty quickly. Guernsey offers an affordable destination alternative that will save you money in comparison to holidaying in busy European hotspots. Often, one of the most expensive parts of your trip is getting to your destination and with such close proximity to the UK, flight fares are dramatically reduced in comparison to destinations further afield.
Guernsey offers a wide range of accommodation options including camping and b&b’s making your trip more budget-friendly. In addition, Guernsey does not have the same influx of foreign travellers as many of the leading holiday destinations. In that regard, prices are catered to a more local market and not inflated to sell to tourists. This leaves you with more spending money to play with.
When it comes to accommodation, Guernsey has great options for all types of families. Offering everything from self-catering to inclusive hotel packages, there is a perfect choice for all. For families in search of the flexibility to come and go as you please, ample space and privacy as well as a home away from home feel, self-catering is a great option.
Unrestricted by meal times or the opening times of facilities, self-catering puts you in control of your family holiday. From private vacation rentals to dedicated self-catering resorts, Guernsey has an abundance of self-catering accommodation options to choose from including a collection of historic holiday lets operated by National Trust Guernsey.
Alternatively, families may find the facilities of a hotel more convenient with family-friendly entertainment, thrilling pools and a wealth of activities on offer. You may also find hotels in Guernsey offer a kids club, creche or babysitting service allowing you to enjoy some adult time even whilst travelling with the little ones.
Many of these hotels also offer full-board, half-board or bed and breakfast packages making it easy for families to dine. The Duke of Richmond Hotel is a great example of an incredible hotel for all the family with outstanding family rooms, baby supply kits, activity packs and so much more all expertly co-ordinated by the hotel’s Family Experience Manager.
Guernsey is an impressive choice for a family holiday with short travel times, exceptional family-friendly accommodation and plenty to keep all ages occupied.
Guernsey Adventure Holidays
Guernsey is an exceptional choice for anyone who thrives off an adventurous holiday jam packed with activity. Whether you’re looking for beach activity, countryside adventure or anything in between, this stunning destination has it all. With an incredible selection of attractions, things to do and places to see, you will never be bored in Guernsey. Offering something suitable for everyone, regardless of their age or interests, you’ll be sure to find something exciting to do.
Even if you are travelling with little ones, Guernsey has plenty of activity that everyone in your family can enjoy and make memories that will last a lifetime. Guernsey is home to an outstanding selection of playgrounds such as Saumarez Park. For older kids who are bursting with adrenaline, Karting Guernsey and Melrose Farm Riding School offer exciting activities.
As an island destination, Guernsey is the perfect place to try out lots of exciting water sports and activities. Residents and visitors alike can take advantage of the amazing opportunities that Guernsey offers. A lot of the island’s most-visited beaches have a water sports centre with kayaking, paddle boarding and jet skiing as the top activities. Surfing is an extremely popular water-based activity in Guernsey with Vazon the most popular spot on the island to ride the waves.
For those looking to explore Guernsey below the surface, the underwater world here is simply breathtaking. With a milder climate than the UK, divers will encounter a wealth of different species that are rarely seen in UK waters. Not only do Guernsey waters offer thriving reefs, a large number of wreck sites can also be discovered.
In addition, Guernsey’s abundance of ports makes boat trips a very popular pastime. The stunning coastline can be appreciated from the water, with chances to see dolphins and explore some of the island’s historical landmarks.
Adventure-seekers may find satisfaction in either biking or trekking around the island while more daring activities are also available. Outdoor Guernsey is the island’s biggest adventure operator of both land and water based activity. In addition to kayaking and paddle boarding, Outdoor Guernsey also offers more adventurous water activities including the unique adventure spot of coasteering and Guernsey’s ultimate water adventure, Splashdown.
On land, Outdoor Guernsey hosts a variety of challenges including a high ropes course, climbing, abseiling and Nerf battles. Meanwhile, for more relaxed action, archery and clay pigeon shooting is also offered.
Guernsey is an excellent destination for all kinds of adventurous activities, no matter your age, skill level or interests. Guernsey is the perfect holiday destination if you’re looking for a getaway filled with activities.
Guernsey Walking and Cycling Holidays
Boasting stunning landscapes in all directions, Guernsey is a paradise for nature lovers and an ideal spot to go exploring on foot or on two wheels. If you’re looking for a walking or cycling holiday, Guernsey should be your go-to destination. An impressive destination for outdoor enthusiasts, Guernsey offers breathtaking trails both coastal and countryside. Navigating the island on foot or bike is a great way to introduce you to the beauty of Guernsey.
Guernsey is home to an unbelievable countryside that is sparsely populated and relatively untouched with the exception of idyllic villages and charming farms. The island boasts an impressive amount of country lanes and woodland trails allowing visitors to explore the depths of inland Guernsey.
Heading towards the coast, Guernsey offers magnificent beaches to discover along with mossy cliff top trails to explore, beachfront promenades to wander and hidden powdery bays to find. Walking the coastline can be easily broken up with stops to check out the island’s imposing castles, fascinating war sites and tranquil beaches.
Guernsey’s climate is ideal for a walking or cycling holiday, with its warm summers and mild winters making it an excellent destination for strolls and bike rides throughout the year. Guernsey is a great destination for all types of hikers and bikers with a mild terrain making it suitable for people regardless of their age or ability.
For those embarking on a Guernsey walking or cycling holiday, the internet is your best friend with an abundance of recommendations, itineraries and maps for inspiration. Whilst the majority of walking and cycling holidays in Guernsey are self-guided and taken at your own pace, you can also opt to join a tour company on scheduled walking and cycling tours of the island.
There are a number of tour companies on the island operating walking and cycling day tours and short tours across Guernsey allowing you to explore the sights and scenery with an experienced guide.
A Guernsey walking holiday is also a great opportunity to vacation with the whole family. With pet-friendly Channel crossings via Condor Ferries from Poole and Portsmouth, visitors from the UK can travel to Guernsey with four-legged friends. The island hosts an impressive collection of pet-friendly accommodation and the great outdoors is incredible to explore with your dog.
Meanwhile, for Guernsey cycling holidays, visitors to the island can travel with their own bicycle when travelling by sea. Condor Ferries welcomes both foot and vehicle passengers to travel with bicycles. Whilst most airlines also permit the transportation of bikes, it is typically more convenient to travel by sea or hire on arrival. Guernsey offers an impressive number of bike hire companies across the island with bikes to suit every ability and cater for all the family.
Famous for its natural beauty, Guernsey walking and cycling holidays are a memorable way to discover this exquisite island.
Guernsey Weekend Breaks
With such close proximity to the UK, Guernsey is an excellent choice for a short weekend break. Spend less time travelling and more time enjoying your relaxing holiday with short flight times from many UK airports. Also offering a frequent flight schedule, Guernsey is also a great option for a last minute, spontaneous weekend getaway. For those travelling at the last minute, Guernsey has great car hire options to explore across the island and cycle hire for those wanting a spot of activity.
Whilst Guernsey has a remarkable amount of things to do and places to see, a weekend break offers a great introduction to the island. So close to the UK, Guernsey is easily a destination that can be visited time and time again with a weekend break sparking a desire to return to the island.
An incredible destination for a couples escape or a break with friends, Guernsey is a great place for relaxation. With beautiful beaches, world-renowned spas, boutique hotels and award-winning restaurants, Guernsey has plenty for chilled and luxurious weekend breaks.
St Peter Port is the best destination to base yourself on a short break to the island with a central location and easy access to other corners of Guernsey. The capital is a cultural hotspot with great nightlife, outstanding dining locations and exciting attractions. With historic architecture, cobbled streets and tranquil marina views, St Peter Port is the most visited part of the island.