Jersey Travel Guide - Overview

The largest of the Channel Islands, Jersey has been inhabited for many thousands of years, as can be seen from the neolithic tomb at La Hougue Bie. The Normans made the greatest impact on the Channel Islands, annexing them to the Duchy of Normandy during the 10th century. When William of Normandy gained the English crown in 1066, the Channel Islands became part of the Anglo-Norman realm; they were retained after the loss of Normandy in 1204. As a mark of his gratitude for their loyalty, King John granted Jersey its own constitution; this has been ratified by every successive monarch and the connection between the island and the English throne is expressed in the flag, which contains a crest surmounted by the Plantagenet crown.

Like its neighbours, Jersey has at various times been a haven for smugglers and pirates, and is also vulnerable to attack due to its proximity to France, so often Britain’s enemy in the past. The mixture of languages (English, French and Norman-French) reflects the history of the island.

Jersey is highly developed for tourism. Given its size, it boasts a formidable array of modern attractions and special events catering for its huge number of visitors. The island does not neglect its natural and historical assets though; there is plenty of historical interest as well as many beautiful scenic attractions.