Jersey by bus: Northern Sights.

The Jersey War Tunnels has its own bus stop, so hop off here and it’s just a two minute walk to the site’s entrance. Dug deep into the hillside by forced and slave workers from nations across Europe, the Jersey War Tunnels are now home to fascinating exhibits that tell the true story of life in Jersey under German Occupation. The hardship, the heartache and the heroism, in the words of the people who were there, a visit to the Jersey War Tunnels is a truly eye opening experience. Also situated at the War Tunnels are the Escape Rooms, a real-life adventure game with mysterious puzzles and brain-teasing clues. 

Whether you’ve come directly from the Jersey War Tunnels or via The Windmill, you’ll be on the number 8 bus and getting off at the ‘Grosnez House’ bus stop. From here, the ruins of Grosnez Castle are about seven minutes’ walk away.

Originally built in the 14th Century to serve as a refuge from French attack during the period of the Hundred Years’ War, the castle’s position on a dramatic clifftop in the far north-western corner of the island, some 60m above sea level, meant that the natural features of the site protected it on three sides. From here, on a clear day, you can see right across to our neighbouring islands.

Local tradition has it that much of the stone was used to enlarge St Ouen’s Manor around 1483, and that locals also took down the castle deliberately and used the stones on their own land.

From Grosnez Castle, it’s about half an hour’s walk around the stunning headland towards Plémont Bay and the giant puffin sculptures. If you don’t fancy the walk you can also skip Grosnez and get the number 8 bus directly from the War Tunnels / The Windmill to Plémont.

Jersey’s coastal paths are an incredible resource, giving lucky visitors and islanders access to Jersey’s entire coastline. There is a little up and down on the Grosnez to Plémont section, but the walk should be manageable for those with a reasonable level of fitness.

When there are so many beautiful bays to choose from, it’s hard to pick a favourite, but we’d say that Plémont is up there with the best. Flanked by soaring cliffs and with caves aplenty to explore, this golden, sandy beach leaves little to be desired. If you’re in need of a little refreshment after the walk from Grosnez pop into the wonderful Plémont Beach Cafe for a cake, ice cream or something more substantial.

Then be sure to check out the giant puffin sculptures on the headland. Commissioned by ‘Bird on the Edge’ and the ‘National Trust for Jersey,’ these iconic sculptures were created to highlight the plight of these wonderful birds and Jersey’s key role in protecting the Puffins and other seabirds.

Nestled in the heart of Jersey’s green countryside, both Hamptonne and La Mare are both great places to hop off on this route, depending on your interests.

At Hamptonne Country Life Museum, delve into Jersey’s history of cider making in the cider barn, wander through the cider apple orchard and meet the Hamptonne calves, chickens, sheep and piglets in the traditional farmstead and meadow. It’s a whole lot of fun! Jump off at the ‘Hamptonne Museum’ bus stop and it’s about five minutes’ walk from here.

For those looking for something a little more leisurely, La Mare Wine Estate is the spot for you. Tucked away in a quiet corner of St. Mary, La Mare is the most southerly vineyard in the British Isles, with over 20 acres of rugged vineyards and ancient apple orchards. Join one of their Tour and Tasting Experiences, relax and refuel in the Vineyard Cafe and stock up on Genuine Jersey treats in the Cellar Gift shop. Get off the bus at ‘Rue d’Olive N’ and La Mare is just one minute’s walk from here.

La Mare’s experiences will be closed from October to March, but the Estate Shop is open for you to enjoy complimentary tastings and shops Genuine Jersey produce from the Estate including preserves, chocolate, biscuits, Black Butter, liqueurs, spirits, wines, Christmas gifts and hampers.

There’s lots to discover down at Devil’s hole… (hop off at the ‘Devil’s Hole’ bus stop) Descend a winding path through a wooded area where you’ll find a rather sinister, horned statue… From here, proceed to the Devil’s Hole; an impressive and strangely eerie blowhole that has been eroded into Jersey’s coastline over the millennia. If you’re feeling energetic, take a walk along this stunning stretch of coastline too.

For a refreshing drink or a hearty bite to eat afterwards head to The Priory Inn.