As we move into spring, Guernsey starts to burst back into life in March. Temperatures are rising, flowers are appearing and attractions are slowly starting to reopen making March an excellent time to visit the island. Still off-peak, Guernsey in March is a great time to experience a more relaxed version of the island with less tourists and a more peaceful atmosphere. You can enjoy the best that Guernsey has to offer, without the crowds and without the cold sting of winter. If you are looking to start your spring off with an exciting getaway, Guernsey is a great destination with so much to offer and not too far from the UK.
Is Guernsey worth visiting in March?
Guernsey is a phenomenal destination to visit through the spring and March offers great holidays to all who visit. During this shoulder season, temperatures are starting to rise making outdoor adventures much more enjoyable. Hiking and cycling are both popular activities this time of year with more comfortable weather conditions than winter and summer. Although it may not be sunbathing weather, the beaches also become slightly busier with less of a chill in the air.
When it comes to attractions, many attractions still remain closed into April but some start to open in March. If it is a year when Easter falls at the end of March, most attractions will be open by the end of the month for the Easter break tourism levels. There is much more to do on the island in March than in January and February making it a great month for people wanting to soak up the history and culture of the island.
March is still within Guernsey’s off-peak season meaning that tourism and crowd levels remain low. This makes exploring the island and visiting attractions a more pleasant experience with an ease of navigation and a slower pace. Wait times at attractions are lower and prices are cheaper making it more time and cost efficient. It also means that accommodation feels more relaxed and intimate without a feeling of overcrowding.
To top it off, the landscape of the island begins to transform as we transition into spring. The green of the trees begins to restore while flowers start to bloom with vibrant colours popping up from the ground. This reemergence of Mother Nature brings a new beauty to the island and makes outdoor exploration truly stunning.
Guernsey Weather in March
March is a great time to visit Guernsey in terms of weather. With March nestled between the chill of winter and the heat of summer, temperatures are comfortable without any extremes. The average daily temperature throughout the month is between 6-10°C meaning you should still wrap up warm but can enjoy outdoor exploration at a reasonable temperature.
Chances of snow are extremely minimal in March and any snowfall is usually extremely insignificant. However, chances of rain are much higher with March typically the wettest month for Guernsey. March has an average of 12 days of rainfall across the month making it likely that you will encounter rain during your trip. As long as you are prepared and pack your waterproofs, you can still enjoy Guernsey even in the rain.
While temperatures are warmer, it is a compromise that the island is wetter. However, weather conditions are relatively comfortable making Guernsey weather in March pleasant to experience.
Things to do in Guernsey in March
Throughout March, there is more opportunity for things to do and places to see with attractions slowly starting to reopen. There are also several special events on the island throughout the month that allow visitors to experience the local culture of Guernsey.
Castle Cornet
Closed for the winter, Castle Cornet reopens for the last week of March. Having guarded the harbour for more than 800 years, this iconic fortress offers historical exhibits and guided tours while boasting panoramic views of St Peter Port. It is home to four different museums and four period gardens that all have their own story and unique attractions. Guests can also witness the Noonday Gun, fired by gunners in 19th Century costume. A fun day out for all the family, visitors can access Castle Cornet as part of their Guernsey Discovery Pass, a 12 month unlimited pass to four of the island’s most iconic sites.
Fort Grey Shipwreck Museum
Dive into Guernsey’s maritime history as this unique museum reopens its doors. Alongside Castle Cornet, the Fort Grey Shipwreck Museum also begins its opening season in the last week of March and can be accessed with the Discovery Pass. Built on a small tidal islet to defend Rocquaine Bay, this Martello Tower houses the shipwreck museum. This museum offers an insight into the island’s maritime history and the vessels that have suffered at the hands of the treacherous coastline. Within the museum, you can learn the stories of the ships and explore exhibits of objects recovered from the wrecks. From the islet, you can also admire breathtaking coastal views with Hanois Lighthouse in the distance.
Sausmarez Manor Gardens
While the grand mansion house itself remains closed for tours into April, the gardens on the property begin to burst into life throughout March. It is a great time to visit the magnificent gardens and explore the stunning trails of Sausmarez Manor without the hustle and bustle that comes later in the season. The subtropical gardens are award-winning and begin to bloom again this month. Visitors can also explore the sculpture park and have fun in the Adventure Play Park.
Coastal Walks
With temperatures rising and a milder climate, exploring the coastal trails of Guernsey is a much more pleasant experience. The island is warmer and the winter wind dies down making Guernsey the perfect destination for a walking holiday in March. Take in the majestic beauty of the island’s rugged and dramatic coastline with scenic views that stretch across to neighbouring Channel Islands on a clear day. At this time of year, Jerbourg Point and the Fermain Bay loop are popular routes to wander with beautiful wildflowers starting to bloom on the cliff tops.
Candie Gardens and Guernsey Museum
Open year-round, Candie Gardens is a beautiful place to visit throughout any month, however, in March, these award-winning gardens burst back into life. These beautifully landscaped gardens are back in bloom making it one of the best months to visit to experience the true beauty of the garden and the artistry of the gardeners. Within the gardens, visitors can also find the Guernsey Museum and Art Gallery, a place of heritage and culture that details the island’s history and showcases the best of local artists.
German Occupation Museum
During World War II, the Channel Islands were occupied by German forces and the German Occupation Museum documents the lives of those who lived on the island during these times. Featuring an authentic recreation of an occupation-era street, the German Occupation Museum transports you to the past sharing with you the stories of Guernsey’s history.
St Peter Port Markets
After retiring for winter, the markets of St Peter Port start up again in March. These markets are a culinary delight and a great way to sample local cuisine, handmade goods and fresh produce. The markets put on a display of artisanal delights that showcase the best food makers on the island. St Peter Port markets are a great way to discover local treats including Gache, the fruit loaf of the island.
Guernsey Rally
The Guernsey Rally is an annual motorsport event that brings thrilling racing action to the island, held at the end of February and beginning of March. Organized by the Guernsey Kart and Motor Club, it features various stages on closed public roads, challenging drivers with a mix of fast straights, tight corners and technical terrain. It is an event where both local and visiting competitors participate, showcasing an array of vehicles from classic rally cars to modern high-performance models. Spectators can join in with the excitement and adrenaline from designated viewing areas, making it a safe and family-friendly event. The rally is a highlight of Guernsey’s sporting calendar.
