8 Things to Do in Winter on Jersey, Channel Islands

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Last updated: 8th March 2025

We had a lovely weekend in Jersey, which is part of the Channel Islands in the British Isles. We thought winter is actually a great time to visit Jersey because you’re away from the summer crowds. There’s plenty of picturesque harbours and beaches to discover and coastal walks to explore. In this post we’ll show you what we did during our winter stay on Jersey.

About Jersey, Channel Islands

Jersey is the largest of the Channel Islands and just a short hop from the UK – 100 miles from England and only 14 from France. We found flavours of France everywhere including signs and town names, there’s also a strong Portuguese community on the island. Jersey is a compact island – just 5 miles long and 9 miles wide and the perfect destination even in the winter to enjoy the great outdoors to discover untouched bays, surrounded by towering cliffs.

Jersey’s history is deeply marked by its occupation during World War II, when German forces controlled the island from 1940 to 1945. Liberation Day, celebrated on May 9th, marks Jersey’s freedom with heartfelt events, honouring the island’s resilience and history.

 

 

8 Wonderful Things to Do in Winter on Jersey, Channel Islands

We visited Jersey in January and found it offered a peaceful winter getaway with crisp coastal walks, cozy pubs, and fascinating historical sites. The island’s golden beaches take on a serene beauty, perfect for bracing walks, while its historic sites like Mont Orgueil Castle provide fascinating indoor explorations. You can indulge in hearty local cuisine at welcoming pubs or warm up with fresh coffee in a seaside café. With fewer crowds, you can enjoy Jersey’s natural beauty and rich history at a relaxed pace, making winter the ideal time to discover this island’s unique character. So let’s go! here’s our 8 favourite things to do in winter on the island of Jersey.

 

1. Mont Orgueil Castle 

Start your winter adventure with a visit to Mont Orgueil Castle more commonly known as Gorey Castle, one of Jersey’s most iconic landmarks. Perched on a hill with views over St. Catherine’s Bay, this medieval fortress offers fascinating exhibits and the chance to walk through its ancient stone halls. In winter, the quiet surroundings and dramatic weather make it an especially atmospheric visit. Take a stroll around the grounds, and enjoy the panoramic views across the island and beyond.

Gorey Castle has stood watch over the picturesque fishing port of Gorey for over 800 years. This magnificent medieval fortress is a symbol of Jersey’s independent character and rich history, tied to the Norman conquest, French invasions, and its long-standing connection to the English crown. Climb the 200 steps to where you can pay to explore a maze of staircases, towers, and secret rooms, uncovering gruesome tales and hidden treasures along the way. From the medieval ‘wheel of urine’ in the turrets to the eerie ‘witchcraft’ exhibit in the cellar, the castle offers a fascinating glimpse into the past.

 

 

2. Rozel

Rozel is a charming fishing village on Jersey’s northeast coast, known for its picturesque harbour, colourful boats, and peaceful atmosphere. It’s a great spot for a relaxing stroll, enjoying fresh seafood, or grabbing a bite at the famous The Hungry Man cafe. At low tide, Rozel Bay reveals a stretch of golden sand, perfect for a beach walk. Surrounded by lush green cliffs, this hidden gem offers a tranquil escape and a glimpse of Jersey’s coastal beauty.

 

 

3. Plémont Bay Winter Beach Walk

We loved our stroll along Plemont Bay breathing in the wild crisp sea air. This has to be one of Jersey’s most beautiful beaches. Plémont has a natural drama and enchanting beauty all of its own. It’s a large sandy cove on the north-west tip of the island with many rock pools, fascinating sea caves, and even a fresh water waterfall.

Plémont Bay is a stunning spot year-round, but in winter, the bay offers a dramatic, tranquil escape. We loved our winter beach walk here along the golden sands, surrounded by towering cliffs and the sound of the waves crashing on the shore. What’s special about here is at low tide, as you can explore the hidden caves and rock pools that are revealed at low tide. It’s quite tricky getting over the rock pools to get inside the caves, but preserve as it’s worth it to take some cool silhouette photos inside. We should have just brought a pair of wellies as you could walk through the water to instead of climbing over all the rocks. Plémont Bay is the perfect spot to enjoy Jersey’s natural beauty, without the usual summer crowds.

Before you leave check out the woven willow puffin sculptures on the clifftop at Plemont Bay. These playful puffins pay tribute to all the puffins that nest along Jersey’s shores. It’s a lovely spot to pause and enjoy the panoramic views. If you’re lucky you might see some real penguins!

 

 

4. Devil’s Hole

For a unique coastal experience, head to Devil’s Hole, this natural crater is located on Jersey’s northern coastline. This used to be a cave, but over time from coastal erosion the roof collapsed to form a crater. This fascinating feature is even more striking in winter, when strong tides and low light add drama to the already eerie atmosphere. You can view the hole from a safe distance, marvelling at the rugged beauty of the island’s coastline. The name ‘Devil’s Hole’ was coined in 1851 when a figurehead from a French shipwreck was tossed by the tide into the hole. A local sculptor reshaped the torso into a wooden devil, complete with horns.

When you’ve seen the Devil’s Hole go back to the car park and cross over the other side to the conservation grazing area which has been implemented to enhance the habitat and ecological diversity of this coastal area. The views from here are amazing across the sea of the English Channel and on a clear day you can see France as we did. Just be careful of the sheer cliffside drop to the ocean, there are no barriers here.

 

 

5. St Aubin

Next up is St Aubin, a charming seaside village with a bustling harbour, historic buildings, and plenty of cozy cafés to enjoy in winter. We enjoyed taking a walk along the waterfront, looking into shop windows, and soaking up the village’s seaside charm. St Aubin’s Bay is especially beautiful in winter, and the village’s cafés and pubs provide a warm retreat with views over the marina. If you’re looking for a quiet few hours with a scenic backdrop, St Aubin is the perfect place.

 

The Old Court House Inn

Winter is the ideal time to discover Jersey’s welcoming pubs, where you can enjoy a roaring fire, hearty food, and local ales. We loved the The Old Court House Inn located at the far end of the harbour front at St Aubin.  It has a lovely warm and inviting atmosphere. The brasserie style food was surprisingly tasty and not too expensive.

 

 

6. La Corbière

La Corbière is a Jersey must-see sight, especially in winter when the coastline can look even more dramatic. The lighthouse, perched on a rocky outcrop, stands tall against the windswept cliffs and crashing waves. During low tide, you can walk along the causeway to get a closer look at the lighthouse and take in the incredible views. The winter light makes for stunning photography opportunities, and the strong Atlantic winds create a truly wild and wonderful experience.

The bunkers at Corbière Lighthouse are WWII German fortifications, part of Jersey’s coastal defenses. They stand as historic reminders of the island’s occupation, offering visitors a glimpse into its wartime past amid stunning coastal scenery. Just watch your head as you step inside these tight spaces.

 

 

7. Spot Jersey Cows

Jersey cows are an iconic part of the island’s charm, and winter is a great time to see them up close. As you drive around the island as we did, you soon see them in the countryside grazing peacefully in the fields. They are so small and cute with their distinctive brown coats and gentle nature, Jersey cows are a delight to spot, particularly when the landscape is covered in winter hues. Garth loved their tufts of hair like little wigs 🙂

Jersey cows are famous for producing high-quality milk rich in butterfat, and they are a vital part of the island’s agricultural heritage. Make sure you try some Jersey butter, milk or cream, it has a distinctive taste, especially the butter which is absolutely delicious on fresh bread! You could try visiting one of the island’s dairy farms to sample the famous milk and cream.

 

 

8. St Helier Food, Drink & Cocktails

End your winter exploration with a visit to St Helier, Jersey’s capital. Here, you can explore the local indoor market, enjoy delicious local produce, or warm up in one of the many stylish cafés. The island’s food scene shines during the winter months, with fresh seafood, hearty local dishes, and fantastic cocktails. Head to one of the island’s renowned bars for a warm winter cocktail or explore the local food scene for a taste of Jersey’s culinary delights.

 

Samphire

We decided to splash out on a fancy meal at Samphire in St Helier. They offer a delightful dining experience with a modern, coastal-inspired menu. The dishes are fresh, beautifully presented, and bursting with local flavours, particularly Garth’s Jersey Lobster he ordered. While Phil thought his Venison Loin was excellent, the service could be more attentive, as the staff seemed a bit stretched. Nevertheless, the intimate, relaxed atmosphere makes it a great spot for a special occasion. It was lovely night and a memorable taste of Jersey.

 

 

The Blind Pig

The Blind Pig in Jersey is a hidden gem with a speakeasy vibe that’s not easy to find. Tucked away in a secret location, the dimly lit bar offers expertly crafted cocktails in an intimate, cozy setting. The ambiance is relaxed yet stylish, making it perfect for a quiet night out. Though it can be tricky to locate, the effort is well worth it for the unique experience and top-notch drinks. If you’re in the know, The Blind Pig is a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts.

 

 

The Melting Pot

The Melting Pot is another funky cocktail bar with a 70s inspired interior that’s both vibrant and inviting. The quirky décor sets the tone for a fun, laid-back evening, we loved spending a couple of hours here. The cocktails are reasonably priced (for Jersey), yet still expertly crafted and full of flavour. Whether you’re after a classic or something more creative, The Melting Pot is a perfect choice for a casual night out.

 

 

Bohemia Afternoon Tea

For anyone visiting Jersey, Bohemia, a Michelin-starred restaurant is apparently an absolute must-visit. It’s renowned for its exceptional tasting menus, but they are very expensive. So we opted for an afternoon tea instead. The restaurant’s interior is sophisticated and luxurious, we were surprised to find we were the only ones in the restaurant visiting on a Sunday afternoon, it must be really quiet during winter time, and off season.

 

 

Practical Information for Visiting Jersey in the winter

Planning a trip to Jersey? Here’s what you need to know:

• Getting Here: Jersey is easily accessible by plane or ferry from the UK and France, with flights taking under an hour from many UK cities.
• Currency: Jersey uses the pound sterling (GBP), but its own banknotes and coins are also in circulation and accepted everywhere. UK currency is equally valid on the island.
• Transport: The island is compact and easy to navigate. Hire a car, cycle, or use the reliable bus service to explore at your own pace.
• Weather: Winters are mild, and summers are pleasantly warm, making Jersey a year-round destination. Pack layers for comfort.
• Language: English is the primary language, but you’ll hear lots of people talk French and Portuguese.
• Time Zone: Jersey follows GMT and observes daylight saving time in summer (BST).
• Accommodation: Choose from cozy cottages, boutique hotels, or luxurious seaside resorts to suit your style and budget.

 

Phil and Garth’s Top 5 Jersey Winter Tips:

• Jersey is not cheap. Expect to pay more than the UK for eating and drinking out.
• Fog and wind can cause travel disruption, as Jersey Airport is built on top of a hill.
• Big tourist attractions like the Jersey War Tunnels are closed in the winter months.
• Check the tide times for visiting beaches on the official government website.
• Buy some delicious Jersey butter from the Coop supermarket as a souvenir to take home.

 

How We Did It

• We flew with Easyjet from Manchester to Jersey Airport. It takes 1 hour 15 minutes.
• We stayed at the The Royal Yacht Hotel & Spa. The Jersey butter and milk served at breakfast is delicious.
• We hired a car for the weekend and picked it up from Jersey Airport, returning it for our flight home.

 

Final thoughts on visiting Jersey in winter

Jersey in winter is a hidden gem, offering a mix of relaxation, history, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re strolling along windswept beaches, exploring castles, or warming up with a delicious meal, there’s something special about the island in the colder months.

Have you visited Jersey in winter? Let us know your favourite things to do!

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