Great Rail Journeys · Escorted tour

The Charms of the Channel Islands

The Charms of the Channel Islands, a rail journey with Great Rail Journeys

Uncover the hidden charm of the Channel Islands on a scenic holiday to four stunning isles brimming with natural beauty and fascinating heritage

Day by day

  1. Day 1overnight: St Helier, Jersey

    Arrival in Jersey and discovering St Helier

    Your holiday begins at Southampton airport, where you meet the Tour Manager and catch an early morning flight to Jersey. On arrival, transfer to St Helier for a guided walking tour led by a knowledgeable local expert, discovering the bustling Central Market, the historic Parish Church of St Helier and the bronze statues at the former Cattle Market. Enjoy local tastings including traditional Jersey fudge, the famous Black Butter and locally brewed beer. The rest of the afternoon is free to explore St Helier and settle into the hotel overlooking Liberation Square, before the first dinner together.

    Meals: Dinner

  2. Day 2overnight: St Helier, Jersey

    Exploring Jersey's coastlines

    A full day of exploration across Jersey's diverse landscapes, starting with a visit to Seafield House (a private Regency residence) with formal gardens featuring rare botanical treasures. Continue to St Aubin, Noirmont Point, St Brelade's Bay, Corbière Lighthouse and St Ouen's Bay. Savour freshly harvested Jersey oysters paired with crisp wine at Faulker Fisheries, set within a converted German bunker. Journey east to discover hidden coves and Gorey, dominated by Mont Orgueil Castle. Visit La Hougue Bie, a Neolithic passage grave over 6,000 years old, with a medieval chapel and local storyteller.

    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

  3. Day 3overnight: St Helier, Jersey

    A day at leisure in Jersey

    A full day at leisure to explore Jersey at your own pace. Options include St Helier's mural art trail, Elizabeth Castle on a tidal island, Gerald Durrell Jersey Zoo, or scenic coastal walking routes. No planned dinner this evening, the perfect opportunity to discover local restaurants, cafés and eateries.

    Meals: Breakfast

  4. Day 4overnight: St Peter Port, Guernsey

    To Guernsey for a cider tasting experience

    Transfer to the harbour to board a ferry to Guernsey. On arrival, head to Rocquette Cider for an immersive tour of this family-run cider estate and authentic farm-to-glass cider experience, including orchards of over 5,000 apple trees. Transfer to the hotel in St Peter Port, with the afternoon free to explore. Options include Castle Cornet, the Victorian Candie Gardens, and the Guernsey Museum and Art Gallery. Return to the hotel for dinner.

    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

  5. Day 5overnight: St Peter Port, Guernsey

    Discovering Guernsey and idyllic Herm

    Explore Guernsey's coastline, passing through Val de Terre, Fort George, Sausmarez Manor, and beaches at Perelle, Vazon and Cobo Bays. Visit the Little Chapel, covered entirely in a mosaic of seashells, pebbles and broken china. After lunch, board a ferry to the car-free island of Herm to explore pristine white-sand beaches and quiet coastal paths at leisure. Return to Guernsey by ferry and transfer back to the hotel for dinner.

    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

  6. Day 6overnight: St Peter Port, Guernsey

    Uncovering the Isle of Sark, the 'Jewel of the Channel Islands'

    Ferry ride to the enchanting Isle of Sark after breakfast. Take a 90-minute sightseeing tour by private horse-drawn carriages through Sark's narrow lanes and lush landscapes, with knowledgeable driver guides. Visit the beautiful La Seigneurie Gardens set within the historic walled grounds of a 17th-century manor. Enjoy free time to explore walking trails, secluded creeks, sea caves, coves and rock pools, and optionally discover the Buddhist Rock Carving created by a Tibetan Monk. Return to Guernsey by ferry in time for dinner.

    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

  7. Day 7

    Homeward bound

    After breakfast, make your way to the airport for the flight back to Southampton. Landing in the early afternoon, you are free to make your own way home.

    Meals: Breakfast

Included

  • Expertise of a UK Tour Manager from start to finish
  • 6 nights' 3 & 4-Star accommodation
  • All ferry and coach travel throughout the tour
  • Flights from Southampton to Jersey and Guernsey to Southampton
  • Breakfast each day
  • 5 dinners
  • All guided tours and excursions

Not included

  • Cancellation & Travel Insurance

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