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Although Guernsey is geographically much closer to France than the UK, it is loyal to the British crown. This loyalty can be traced back to Norman times when the Channel Islands first became part of the English realm and forms the basis of the island’s constitution.
Today the island is self-governing and enjoys the same level of independence it has had since first becoming associated with England.
Guernsey’s ability to look after its own fiscal affairs has meant that it has been able to foster a favourable tax climate. This has led to many offshore banks, fund managers and insurance companies establishing here. Whilst the traditional industries of flower growing, fishing and dairy farming still play an important part, contributing both to the varied economy and to the island’s character. There are also a number of high profile light industries based on the island, including Specsavers Optical Group, Healthspan and Healthy Direct.
Guernsey also has its own stamps and currency, and while British pounds can be used on the island, Guernsey pounds cannot be used in the UK.
Blessed with an abundance of natural ingredients from sea and land, it’s not surprising that the islands should be able to boast so many high quality restaurants. Choose from hearty pub fayre, bistro dining or contemporary cuisine – healthy appetites are welcome in all of our restaurants. There are a huge variety of culinary styles available from all over the world, too. Indian, Turkish, Spanish and Italian sit comfortably alongside more traditional restaurants. And with the quality as high as it is, you’ll soon be back for seconds.
St Peter Port also has a good choice of lively pubs and bars where you can soak up the atmosphere…along with a few cocktails or locally brewed ales. A number of food events feature throughout the year. Browse the listing below, choose a time to visit when culinary celebration is on the menu and then tuck-in.
Guernsey’s environment will reinvigorate your senses: savour the scent of cool, wooded valleys, or the sight of a sunset, mirrored in the Atlantic Ocean. Soak up the sound of waves lapping on old granite landing steps, or the tingle of salt on your skin after a long day on the beach. With their age-old recipe of clean sea, fresh air and clear light, the islands are the ultimate, natural antidote to stress. Over 100 miles of coastline is the setting for sandy beaches and dunes, secret coves and rock pools, rugged harbours and endless, beautiful cliff walks. Inland, each island has a country heart that beats to the rhythm of the seasons. Sleepy lanes, private gardens, nature reserves and migrating birds are just some of the natural treasures waiting to be discovered and, with 449 flowering plants recorded in January alone, the islands are in bloom all year round.
St. Peter Port
Guernsey’s capital has been a busy entrepôt since Roman times. Her deep, safe anchorage and relative remoteness from France made St Peter Port the Channel Islands’ premier port, graced by the wealth of ship builders, privateers and merchant adventurers. Georgian and Regency styles were enriched by an influx of French emigrés, including Victor Hugo, whose influences included Parisian-style urinoirs. Today the town is a captivating blend of styles, framed by a tumble of terraces and tiered gardens and criss-crossed by worn steps and hidden alleys.
Shopping in St Peter Port is an unmissable experience. Electronic and photographic equipment, jewellery and perfume are all good, low duty buys, along with wines, spirits and tobacco and of course the famous Guernsey jumper. Small boutiques offer exclusive clothes, shoes and leather goods, whilst the Old Quarter is the place to find antiques. But take time to just look around you. After all, this is the Channel Islands’ most beautiful town.
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