Walking is one of the easiest ways to practice sustainable living and traveling. When you combine that with an area that is pedestrian-friendly and full of fun things to see/do, makes for a great self-guided walking tour— especially around St. Helier, Jersey,
Walking St. Helier, Jersey
The island of Jersey is located in The Channel Islands, between England and France. Jersey is closer to the French coast and also the largest of the channel islands. This summer I spend quite a bit of time in Jersey and found that even if I had a car, it’s much easier to get around St. Helier by foot. As with most cities, parking is limited––and up there in price. Whereas walking allows more control over how close you are to a destination, where you can meet people, and there’s the elimination of parking fines/learning how to drive according to another country’s road rules. Enjoy the itinerary below for a self-guided walking tour of St. Helier, Jersey.
How To Get To Jersey:
From the USA, I flew into London and took a connecting flight to Jersey. Another option would be to fly to France or see if your country offers direct flights to the island. Be sure you’re country is on the approved travel list and that you’re complying with current covid regulations. Click here to check those out.
By Air
There are many regular direct flights to Jersey from the U.K., France, and other European cities.
By Ferry
Condor Ferries are also an option if you’re avoiding air travel. You can also check the options if you’re bringing a bike, scooter, car, and pet along. Some regulations allow this, so be sure to read up on that if those are a part of your travel plans to Jersey.
8 am | Howard Davis Park
We’re starting the tour on the outskirts of St. Helier and at the park, to begin the day with a moment of calm. Take a stroll around the park, read under the trees or on the bench, bring a yoga mat, or do all of the above. The point is to create a calm and purposeful start to the day before all of the hustle and bustle. Use your time in the park to check in with yourself, set an intention for the day, or go through any other mental wellbeing or religious practices you would like to do. When it’s time to go, head towards the main gate entrance/exit.
9 am | Leisurely Stoll Into Town
From the exit of Howard Davis Park’s main gate, follow the straight path all the way into the heart of St. Helier. This will take you to the top of the high street, which is about a 10-15 minute walk depending on your pace. Along the main road you’re following in, you will pass a coffee shop, resale shop, restaurants, and a collection of other businesses. Don’t forget to stop and admire the window displays or pop in to support local.
9:30 am | Central Market
Right now you should be at the top of the St. Helier high street, on the road, Snow Hill. You should see “La Petite Baguette” on your left and a sitting area on your right. Continue forward on that road and follow the signs to the central market.
Within the market, there is plenty to explore! Grab breakfast/a snack, stock up on sweet treats, fresh flowers, and browse through the various market stalls to see what treasures you’ll bring back home with you. My favorite bits of the market is the smoothie bar and the cupcake stand, Flour. They have gluten-free options!
Read: 5 Ways I Failed At Sustainable Traveling
11:00 am | Coffee Break
Exit the market on Halkett Place, and walk down the end of the street to Bean Around The World for a delicious latte/coffee break. They have a few tables and chairs outside to sit in the sunshine (if it’s not raining). Otherwise, there are spots inside to enjoy a mug full of your favorite drink.
12:00 pm | Private & Public Art Gallery
Around the corner and a two-minute (if that) walk from Bean Around The World, is one of Jersey’s art galleries, Private & Public. “A fine art dealership specializing in modern and contemporary international art in all mediums. The company is also a leading public art consultancy with over 20 years of experience of working with developers, architects, artists, and designers on high-value projects in the public realm.” This is (that I know of) one of the two art galleries located in St. Helier.
1:00 pm | Late Lunch
Head to Locke’s for amazing brunch/lunch. For those with dietary restrictions and food allergies, Locke’s has peanut and gluten-free options available that are incredibly tasty.
2:00 pm | High-Street Shopping
Head back to the high street (follow the signs, backtrack or plug King Street into the GPS) to shop a mix of local businesses plus globally recognized brands. Stop into Harriet & Rose, a newly opened lifestyle boutique that also regularly offers workshops. Say “he” to Harriet and shop the amazing items she has curated.
3:00 pm | CCA Galleries International
Note, the gallery is closed from August 2nd to September 6th, 2021.
The second gallery in St. Helier is CGA Galleries International, “a commercial gallery housed in Royal Court Chambers, a listed building at 10 Hill Street, St Helier, JE2 4UA. The interior has been transformed from a traditional law office into a contemporary exhibition space spanning four floors and showcasing the best of contemporary British art including paintings, limited edition prints, and sculpture.
CCA Galleries International is at the center of cultural life in Jersey; bringing an opportunity to view and purchase work by leading international and local artists and offering educational opportunities for the community. As well as inviting renowned artists to the island to attend events, hold workshops and give talks, CCA Galleries International hosts school visits and offers internships.”
4:00 pm | Elizabeth Castle
Take a scenic 13-minute walk from CCA to the Elizabeth Castle Ferry Kiosk. From you are able to purchase tickets to tour the historical castle––”take the Castle Ferry or walk across at low tide. Elizabeth Castle is the perfect place to spend a day exploring Jersey’s history.” Click here to view the castle opening times, ticket prices, and watch the video of the gorgeous castle!
5:30| Beach Break/Stroll
Digest the history from the castle tour, take a break, and enjoy the beach that is right there. Stroll along the waterfront and grab a burger at the food stand or see where the path leads you for dinner.
6:30 | Dinner
If a greasy burger isn’t your cup of tea, check out The Green Olive on your walk back into town or before you catch a bus back to the parish you’re staying at.
8:00 | Drinks
Head over to The Troubadour if you’re looking to have drinks or meet up with others outdoors/in a socially distant way. The view is beautiful to watch the sunset and enjoy a gorgeous Jersey night.
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