An Experts Guide to Alderney

What was once the island’s school is now a remarkable museum that holds up to 18,000 interesting and exciting monuments. The magical 1790 old building displays an impressive collection that incorporates history dating back to the Stone, Bronze and Iron age. You will be transported back to life in Alderney during the Victorian era and Second World War whilst learning about the island’s incredible past. The museum hosts several lectures and presentations by an assortment of knowledgeable speakers.

Alderney was occupied during WW2 and was the only island to be evacuated as it became part of Hitler's Atlantic Wall. As an outcome of the occupation, there are a variety of Victorian forts scattered around the island that was used to defend the island. The most notable forts include Fort Clonque, Fort Albert, Fort Tourgis, Fort Grosnez and Fort Chateau a L’Etoc, all of which provide an incredible insight into the Alderney’s remarkable history. Take a walk to 'The Odeon' to see the MP3 five-story naval range-finding tower which provides the most incredible views of France.

Officially opened in 1847 by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, the Alderney Railway is the only working railway across the Channel Islands. The original purpose of the railway was to carry stone from the eastern end of the island to help build Victorian forts and the Alderney breakwater. The railway is still in use today but has been replaced by two London Underground carriages and carries passengers on a coastal route during the summer months. The perfect trip for train enthusiasts and families!

The well-known Bayeux Tapestry located in Paris ends after the Battle of Hastings and it is believed by experts that it should include more panels than displayed. Local Alderney resident Kate Russell wanted to complete the tapestry whilst keeping to the same style as the original. 400 people contributed to the stitching of the Alderney Tapestry including the royals the Duchess of Cornwall and Prince Charles. The tapestry is 3 metres long and 50cm in height, it was a large community project and depicts the tale of the final days of King Harold’s final encounter with William the Conqueror in battle. The tapestry is on display in the Alderney Library.

For one of the more unique things to do in Alderney, you cannot miss the spectacular views of the Gannet colony of Les Etacs. The Gannet rocks are only 100m from the coastline and from mid-February until late September you will be able to see 5900 pairs of birds circulating it, the spectacle is a must-see. Giffoine is an ideal stop on your coastal walk and there is a bench and telescope for you to view the incredible colony.