Jersey is the largest of the Channel Islands and whilst it is a British dependency, this idyllic island gem is actually much closer to France than the British mainland. Despite its relatively small size, Jersey is a great place for walking with something to offer for everyone.
The towering cliffs and dramatic coastline of the north offer spectacular views with Guernsey, Sark and France visible on a clear day, not to mention enough of a lung-busting challenge for those keen to push themselves on the steep gradients of many of the cliff-top rambles. For those not keen to commit to an entire stretch of coastal path there are also plenty of car parks at the best view points, allowing you to wander a short way along the path in either direction and get a feel for the wildness of a cliff-top wander.
Jersey ‘s gentler south coast is great for families looking to combine beach time with a short wander, those heading west can walk almost the entire side of the island along uninterrupted sandy beach and sand dunes and the east coast offers plenty of history, sand and varied landscapes that will please all.
For non-beach walking days, Jersey has a network of designated ‘Green Lanes’ – small often single-track lanes where walkers, cyclists and riders have priority and any cars brave enough to venture down their winding track are restricted to a snail-like 15 mph. These make a great option for peaceful inland wanders in the lush countryside, pub routes or turning a coastal wander into a circular route. Green lanes are marked on tourist maps of the island with more details available from the Tourist Board.
The old railway line from St. Helier via St. Aubins to the SW tip of Jersey is another option for those looking for designated walking tracks on an even surface. In theory the entire railway route is possible with a sturdy or all-terrain pushchair but is not entirely flat so may suit those walking with older children or toddlers in child carriers best. The stretch from St. Helier to St. Aubins is entirely along paved beachfront paths so perfect for a leisurely weekend wander to explore the pretty fishing port of St. Aubins and this popular stretch of the south coast.
Finally, those in search of a more epic challenge might like to attempt the Channel Islands Way or complete a walk around the circumference of Jersey.
Below this article you will find a selection of tried and tested Baby Routes walks as well as some suggestions for other family friendly walking routes in Jersey and useful walking resources.
- Jersey Tourist Board – the essential reference for all those planning on walking in Jersey. The website has a fantastic walking section with plenty of ideas for routes and tips on terrain. There are also details of guided walks for all abilities and information on Jersey’s bi-annual walking festivals. It’s also worth visiting the Tourist Board office or their online shop to pick up a copy of the Jersey Leisure Map (the equivalent of an OS Map in the UK) and other useful guides and publications.
- Jersey Water – Jersey’s reservoirs offer an alternative and peaceful inland option for gentle walks, most of which are pushchair friendly. Details of walking paths at two of Jersey’s reservoirs can be found on the leisure section of their website.
- Walking Britain – there is a small selection of Jersey walks listed on Walking Britain but which are not necessarily all family friendly.
Visitors to Jersey may also find my accommodation review of the family friendly West View Hotel and post on tourist attraction Durrell Wildlife Park helpful.
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