The Duke of Richmond Hotel

Guernsey is far from being a large island – it covers only 25 square miles (65 sq km). But it does have a long and complex history, which has left it independent in most matters from its immediate neighbours; the UK and France. Both French and English are spoken widely here, as is a local French dialect, Guernésiais.



The island itself is mild in winter and warm in summer, making it an attractive place to holiday. As you’d expect it also enjoys a good range of coastal features, including charming bays, family-friendly beaches (sandy and pebbled; 27 in all), walker-friendly cliff paths, and many opportunities for kayaking or surfing. There is an airport, but no railway, and buses are plentiful. Those with cars should be aware though, that the speed limit is 35mph. Saint Peter Port is the capital and covers about 10 per cent of the island.

Victor Hugo lived in exile here from 1855 to 1870, and his house is one of the many attractions of the town. Another is Castle Cornet, an impressive defensive complex, parts of which date back 800 years.