Things to do in Channel Islands, Channel Islands: The Best Museums

This was the headquarters of the German Naval Commander of the Channel Islands during WWII. The Signals HQ handled all the important radio signals traffic for the German Forces during the Occupation. The bunker complex was completed in 1944 and housed powerful communication equipment and Enigma enciphering machines. Over half the complex has been restored to its wartime appearance with original fixtures, fittings, objects and equipment.

Jane James Ceramics specializes in making unique coastal ceramics mounted on driftwood that capture the charm, character and natural beauty of the Jersey coastline. At her studio and gallery you can watch Jane and her team make their ceramics and view a large range of her ceramics and other local arts and crafts.

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.

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!

The museum collection on display reveals an island community changing over the years to both external and internal pressures. Alderney has a fascinating history starting with extensive Stone, Bronze and Iron Age activity, with evidence of historically important Roman activity at Longy. The Victorian era brought huge change to Alderney and the landscape is still dominated by Queen Victoria's interest in the island as a defence harbour from the French. Most recently the Second World War had an extreme effect on Alderney when all but a few of the island's inhabitants were evacuated and the island occupied by German forces for the duration of the war.

La Hougue Bie delivers a truly memorable experience that is at once thought provoking and peaceful. The site features one of Europe's finest passage graves where you can learn about life in Jersey's Neolithic community 6,000 years ago. A medieval chapel sits on top of the prehistoric mound and dolmen dominating this tranquil and spiritual site. Unlike many other dolmens you can stand inside the chamber of the passage grave and feel the heart of this place of worship. 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 Museum will open on Sunday the 16th of May from 10 till 5 and are hoping to re-open 7 days a week very shortly. The display is unrivalled on the Island and is housed in a real German bunker that was once part of Hitlers Atlantic Wall, all of which gives you the feeling of what it was like to live here during the Occupation. Wether you have a passing interest or find our recent history fascinating there is something for all, to see read and hear. The Museum is the work of one man who started collecting at the age of 7 and who is still looking for original items from the time. There are items added every week and there is always something new to be seen even if you have been before. Admission is £5 for adults and £3 for children, which is great value for money. We look forward to welcoming new visitors to the Museum as well as those who return every year for another look around.

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.