Guernsey Holidays – Sightseeing

Sausmarez Manor, St Martin’s

One of the few Channel Island manor houses open to the public. The de Sausmarez family have been in Guernsey since 1254. Only a fragment of the oldest house remains, additions have been made through the Tudor, Queen Anne, Regency and Victorian eras. The present grey granite façade rather resembles an American colonial house of the earlier 18th c. One of the most distinctive interior features is a rich carved Burmese teak screen in the hall. Morning coffee, afternoon tea served.

National Trust of Guernsey Folk Museum, Saumarez Park, Cdtel

Museum in stables of an old manor house now used as a hostel for the elderly, reached through attractive gardens and wooded grounds. It consists of several granite buildings set around a courtyard, contains recreations of a traditional Guernsey bedroom and kitchen, dairy equipment and a horse-powered apple crusher. Especially nice are the glassed-in tableaux, eg two ladies dressing for market, made entirely of shells.

Les Vauxbelets, St Andrew

The Little Chapel, a tiny, shimmering building made entirely of broken glass and china, was the work of Brother Deodat of the Brothers of the Christian Schools order. He wanted to build a grotto like the one at Lourdes, but being penniless had to resort to readily available materials. He began the chapel in 1923. Inside are an altar and small Madonna surrounded by an aureole of ormer shells; the steps were donated by Wedgwood. Be sure to go on a bright day when the glass reflects the sun.

Guernsey Pottery, St Sampson

In a 17th c farmhouse. You can wander round and watch the pottery making, or sit outside and enjoy quiches or afternoon tea. Most of the pottery is stoneware, there are also ash trays and vases in unusual blue and green shades.

Fort Grey Maritime Museum, Rocquaine Bay

Connected to the shore by a causeway, the fort was restored by the Ancient Monuments Committee. Devoted entirely to relics of shipwrecks, appropriately enough it is within sight of the notorious west coast reefs responsible for many wrecks, now guarded by Hanois Lighthouse.

Guernsey Tomato Centre, King,s Mills, Castel

Shrine to the “Guernsey Tom”. See them, smell them, touch them, even drink them in tomato wine served in adjoining café.

German Occupation. Museum, The Forest

Largest display of authentic Occupation relics in the Channel Islands.

Underground German Military Hospital, St Andrew

Empty and echoing, the largest structural remnant of the Occupation anywhere in the islands.  Very sobering place to visit.

Guernsey Zoo, St Andrew

Small zoo concentrating on the smaller mammals and birds. A staff of three aim to help endangered species. Visit and support them; they need the money.

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