Guernsey

Thanks to Guernsey’s split personality of traditional fishing port and wealthy capital of commerce, accommodation ranges from elegant five-star hotels to homely, family-run guesthouses on the sleepy island. There are some great options gathered around St Peter Port, including The Old Government House Hotel and Spa (St Ann's Place), which tops Guernsey’s luxury market thanks to its sumptuous 19th-century interiors and modern spa. The well-priced St George’s Guesthouse (21 St George’s Esplanade) offers plenty of nautical charm across its comfortable rooms, while in nearby Castel, Le Friquet Country House (Rue Du Friquet) is a great mid-range option that boasts a relaxing atmosphere and manicured gardens.

St Peter Port has a pedestrianised centre and is classed as Guernsey’s retail hub, offering a range of classy chains and independent wood-fronted shops, all free from VAT (Value Added Tax), leading to designer bargains. Shop for brands such as Armani and Hugo Boss at Samuel Pepys (31 High Street), or check out the upmarket brands at upmarket fashion outlet Nautilus (8 Mill Street). Catherine Best (Steam Mill Lane) lies out of town in St Martins, boasting an incredible jewellery showroom, while the best of Guernsey’s local produce can be found at traditional farmers’ markets such as St Peter Port’s Fresh Fridays Produce Market (Market Square) and Castel Parish Farmers’ Market (Le Friquet Garden Centre) in Castel.

Fresh seafood dominates the cuisine in Guernsey, with St Peter Port restaurants Le Petit Bistro (The Pollet) and Pier 17 (Albert Pier) among the finest when it comes to taking advantage of the coastal setting. St Martins’ award-winning restaurant The Auberge (Jerbourg Road) offers plenty of fish dishes on an inventive menu that features freshly-picked produce, while The Old Government House (St Ann's Place) also makes use of foraged ingredients. In the capital perhaps the most romantic place for an evening meal is the Fermain Beach Café (Fermain Lane), a welcoming spot that has grown up around an old ice-cream hut.

Liberation Day

9 May

This celebration marks Guernsey’s liberation from German forces in 1945 after a difficult five years of occupation, with a range of parades and pageants taking place around the island. A rock concert and huge firework display also feature.

Sure Festival of Comedy

May-June

This stand-up comedy festival draws the cream of European talent, and also includes film screenings to go along with the big-name shows and open mike nights.

St Peter Port Carnival

July

Guernsey’s capital is taken over by parades and performances as bands and street musicians bring the streets to life over the course of this week-long festival.

Summer Festival

August

This family-friendly festival is based at St Peter Port’s Castle Cornet. With a historical theme, sword fighting displays, traditional music, arts and crafts workshops, archery lessons and competitions all play a part in proceedings.

Tennerfest

October-November

Promoting Guernsey’s restaurants is the main aim of this six-week event that is hugely popular on the island. A number of excellent eateries offer discounted menus that can see all-inclusive meals start at just £10.