The 10 Best Specialty Museums in Channel Islands, Channel Islands

A holiday in Jersey is not complete without a visit to Jersey War Tunnels to learn about and experience one of the most difficult periods in the Island’s history.The story of the German Occupation of Jersey is as compelling as it is strange to think that this small area of Britain was Occupied by the Nazis and forced to fly the Swastika for five dark years.The Jersey War Tunnels are no ordinary museum, they are an unforgettable experience. Dug deep into the hillside within St Peter’s Valley, the Tunnels were originally intended to be a barracks and ammunition store for the occupying forces. Today they tell the story of the Occupation, looking at how all sides coped under such extreme conditions and examining the daily dilemmas that were faced by island residents and the authorities, whether Jersey, British or German.Outside the Tunnels, you can enjoy quiet moments in the Garden of Reflection or a woodland walk along the historic War Trail. Refresh yourself in the Pantry Cafe or enjoy the shop and craft activities in LoveBird Too.

Jersey’s landscape and history have been shaped by the sea and this museum tells the story of the Island’s unique maritime environment and rich seafaring past. Set by the historic harbour of St Helier, the Maritime Museum is a uniquely interactive museum where you can see, hear and even smell the exhibits. Learn about the tides or how to design and float a ship, immerse yourself in songs and stories of the sea, and investigate the Island's myths and legends or discover the fun of the seaside. Also on site the Occupation Tapestry Gallery. The award-winning Occupation Tapestry which was woven by Islanders to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the liberation. We have a series of safety measures in place to help you enjoy your visit safely during the Covid-19 pandemic. These include a one-way system, local track-and-trace register and restricted group areas.

The Guernsey Tapestry is a fantastic way to understand the complex history of the islands. Ten panels (all stitched by locals to celebrate the Millenium) beautifully explain the events of each century. An easy to use and understand audio guide adds to the experience (available in English, French and German). A quote from the visitors book 'This was a wonderful way of telling history - I've never seen anything quite like it - don't miss it!'

On "The Travel Channel", a vintage time capsule of two memorable collections, including an island take-over attempt!

Strongpoint Corbière currently consists of five German WWII Fortifications found at La Corbière Point. Volunteer members attend to the WWII fortifications & although CIOS members, this is not an officially recognised page. The aim is to preserve and restore these structures to how they would have been operationally during the last year of WWII. The site's 5 bunkers are open to the public at select times, being the two 10.5CM coastal defence gun casemates, the M19 Fortress Mortar bunker, the heavy machine gun sechsscharternturm bunker & the Kanalinsel Nr. 514 Personnel Shelter . The aim is to create a 'working atmosphere', not a 'static museum' where some of the equipment is usable & you can even aim the 10.5cm fortress gun or hold & operate deactivated machine guns! Much attention has been paid to the interior fixtures & fittings & the bunkers contain extensive displays showing how the bunkers and weapons operated together with stories about the actual soldiers who served there.

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!