The 10 Best Gardens in Channel Islands, Channel Islands

An 800 year old castle that boasts incredible views of the whole East coast of Guernsey and across to the other islands of Herm, Sark and Alderney. Steeped in history that includes the English civil war and the German Occupation of the castle and islands during the second world war. There are four museums on military history, the RAF and the story of the castle and a new maritime museum hoping to be unveiled later in 2021. The grounds and gardens benefit from a full-time castle keeper tending the historic gardens and keeping it looking beautiful. The daily noon-day gun firing of a 32 pound cannon by a gunner in traditional 19th century uniform is the highlight of any visit and can be accompanied by a castle tour in the morning, tea in the cafe and relaxing in the sunshine!

Candie Gardens is a beautiful 19th Century garden in the heart of St Peter Port with spectacular views over the harbour and neighbouring islands. The site also includes a café, a museum and art galleries (Guernsey Museum at Candie)and a research library (the Priaulx Library). Entry to the gardens and library is free, there is a small charge for the museum and art galleries.

Nestling in the beautiful Guernsey parish of Castel, Le Friquet Garden Centre is the island’s largest garden centres. Stocking the widest array of indoor and outdoor products, it also has the most comprehensive range of plants, seeds and bulbs in Guernsey. Not only providing inspiration for both the amateur and dedicated gardener and homemaker as well as all the best advice, the Centre has a superb restaurant where you can enjoy freshly prepared dishes in stunning surroundings.

After serving Jersey for 26 years Jersey Goldsmiths has now left Lion Park. Our goldmsiths can be found for all your jewellery repair and design needs at The Bench at Jersey Pearl. The diamond experts Diamondology can be found at their Viewing Office in the heart of St. Helier. Our beautiful collections can now be found on our website!

In 2018 we are open from 1st May to 30th September, 10am to 5pm, Tuesdays to Sundays - we are closed on Mondays for maintenance, even if the Monday is a bank holiday. From early June to mid August we have our harvesting season when we look the best with the lavender in bloom, and we gather the harvest in. During this time we STRONGLY encourage you to attend one of the talks in the distillery at either 11:30am or 3:00pm. They are fun, informative and well worth it. Outside the harvesting season, the distillery isn't working but there is a 5 min video presentation that explains the processes on the farm through the year, and plenty to read and our different lavender oils to smell (and the entrance charge is lower). There is a "Discovery Trail" for kids and adults alike, chickens to feed and we also have our Sprigs Cafe and Shop. Plenty of homemade food in the first and a good range of gifts and, of course, the lavender products made on the farm.