Short Breaks in the Channel Islands
The Channel Islands are what we call Crown Dependencies, but are not officially part of the UK. They are governed by two Bailiwicks, the Bailiwick of Guernsey and the Bailiwick of Jersey which date back to the 13th Century when the Islands, originally annexed to the Duchy of Normandy, chose to retain allegiance to the English Crown when it lost the remainder of its land in Normandy. For the visitor they appear as British as any mainland region, but are governed independently.
Until relatively recently the official language was Patois, a dialect of French used by the Normans. Indeed Victor Hugo communicated with the locals in French when he was exiled in Guernsey because he abjectly refused to learn English.
Until relatively recently the official language was Patois, a dialect of French used by the Normans. Indeed Victor Hugo communicated with the locals in French when he was exiled in Guernsey because he abjectly refused to learn English.
Guernsey
Guernsey is the small and closer of the two main islands but is also in control of the Islands of Alderney, Sark and Herm. Any visit to Guernsey must include a visit at least one of these other islands - the beaches are pristine and are places where you can step into an almost forgotten world.
Jersey
Jersey feels much larger its neighbour, but this is mostly due its large bay areas. You will find Jersey full of diversity, with the busy area around St. Helier contrasting with the beautiful rural north with its high cliffs and deep bays.Eurodestination is not responsible for content on external websites.
Related Links
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External Links
FlyBeFlyBe (used to be called British European Airlines) is originally a Channel Islands Airline now covering most of the regional Airports of the UK. If you live in far-flung parts of the UK like Newquay or Norwich, you can get to the other side quickly and easily with these guys. FlyBe has some useful destinations in France, like the Auvergne from Southampton, Bergerac, Rennes, Brest or Tours.