Expert guide to St Peter Port

1. Explore Castle Cornet

The remarkable 800-year-old castle sits proudly at the southern point of St Peter Port harbour. Explore the battlements with your little ones and learn about the history of the island. Admire the picturesque views of the east coast and on a clear day, you will be able to see the islands of Herm, Sark and Breqhou. Within Castle Cornet lies four period gardens, creating a wonderful horticultural experience. There are also five museums to explore!

3. Discover Victor Hugo’s Hauteville House

Hauteville House used to be the home of Victor Hugo, he was a French literary writer that was banished from France and acquired the home in Guernsey in 1856. There are 5 floors to this mammoth house all of which you will be able to explore on your visit. The house is entirely furnished and decorated by Hugo himself and is reflective of his creative mind at the time. A variety of well-known masterpieces were written here including The Legend of Ages, Théâtre en Liberté and of course one of the greatest novels of the 19th century, Les Misérables.

5. Watch a show at St James Concert Hall

St James Concert Hall is a former garrison church that is frequently used for a variety of performances, recitals and concerts. From comedy shows to musical performances there is a range of shows that will appeal to everyone’s different tastes. The beautiful building was converted in 1985 after it was no longer in use by the residents of Guernsey. The hall is situated on College Street by St Peter Port. To see upcoming events, please visit St James’ website.  

6. Appreciate the artefacts at Guernsey Museum & Art Gallery

If you are an art fanatic, the Guernsey Museum & Art Gallery is a must-see! The museum is located within Candie Gardens and The Rona Cole Art Gallery holds over 200 incredible paintings. Notable local artists include William Toplis, William Caparne, Paul Naftel and Peter Le Lievre. There is also a collection of natural history, archaeology and geology artefacts to explore. Throughout the year there are also a variety of different exhibitions displayed.

8. Visit the sister island of Sark

Travel with Sark Shipping for a day trip to the isle of Sark, the ferry runs throughout all months of the year from White Rock at St Peter Port to ensure there is a connection between the two islands. Whilst you are there, we recommend visiting La Coupee, a narrow isthmus that connects Big Sark to Little Sark. We also suggest visiting the ring of stones at Sark Henge as well as Grand Greve, one of Sark’s beautiful sandy beaches. If you fancy taking a trip back in time, you can even take a horse and carriage ride around the island.

10. Settle down for some Afternoon Tea

For a quintessentially British day out, enjoy a delicious afternoon tea at Copenhagen Restaurant in Hotel De Havelet. With terrific views of St Peter Port and Castle Cornet, there is no better way to relax the day away. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a treat, a civilized get together in a stunning location is incomparable. There is also prosecco afternoon tea available if you rather have some bubbles with your scones.

12. German Naval Signals HQ

This incredible site is a restoration of the original bunker and used to be the headquarters for the German Naval Commander of the Channel Islands during World War Two. The signal HQ was accountable for the radio traffic to and from Germany and other islands. If you are passionate about history and technology this is a must-see during your stay in Guernsey. The German Naval Signals HQ is situated in St Jacques, St Peter Port.

Fresh Seafood

There is a large selection of seafood restaurants to try and there are some of the best places to eat in St Peter Port as the coastal waters are home to an assortment of fish. Whether you are after oysters, scallops, bass or mackerel they are bound to taste delicious because they flourish in the moderate waters.

The Boathouse is situated right on the harbour waters and because of its setting they specialise in fresh seafood. The nautical restaurant serves the most delicious seafood dishes throughout their main menu and specials. Another incredible terraced restaurant is Pier 17 as they are inspired by fresh and seasonal ingredients. From their lobsters to scallops, their seafood is truly exceptional. 

The Catch Bistro & Bar is a small restaurant that overlooks the harbour, they aim to sell the freshest seafood from the local waters and beyond. Their menu is full of a large selection of different seafood and we recommend checking out their blackboard for the catch of the day!

Fine Dining

For an exceptional dining experience, Le Nautique is situated in the heart of the stunning capital and is one of the best places to eat in St Peter Port. The remarkable a la carte menu offers world-class cuisine and a vast array of options, to ensure there is something for everyone. The Chef Recommends section on their menu is constantly changed to incorporate seasonal produce and their fish is caught daily from Guernsey’s waters.

The Old Government House Brasserie is located in a five-star hotel at St Peter Port and their food reflects just that. The classic seasonal ingredients are remarkable, so make sure you pick something from their daily specials or, for the ultimate experience, from the chef’s choice menu. Don’t miss out on their extensive wine list and enjoy a glass whilst catching up some friends.

La Fregate Hotel & Restaurant offers one of the finest views in Guernsey, the perfect place to enjoy a deliciously prepared meal. Naturally, the menu is full of delightful seafood and fish from the local waters and the chefs use seasonal and local produce wherever possible. La Fregate takes pride in its exceptional wine list which has been carefully accumulated to be enjoyed by all.

St Peter Port, Guernsey is a shopper's paradise. On the hillside parallel to the Esplanade, you will find the pedestrianised high street. It is easy to find as there is brightly coloured bunting weaved across the shops. The high street is the main shopping area in St Peter Port and offers an array of shops ranging from recognisable UK high street brands to unique boutique and gift shops. It is ideally located, as it is very close to the main harbour by the ferry terminal.

The high street becomes Le Pollet when heading north and here you will find gorgeous jewellers and boutiques. There are limited tacky tourist shops and a lot of high-quality independent businesses with low-priced goods. You will be able to find your essentials at the likes of Boots and Co-op but also pick up some interesting pieces at the local aesthetic craft shops. The streets are spotless and twist through the back lanes of St Peter Port.

 Market Square also offers a variety of shops such as Feel Unique, New Look, Sports Direct to name a few. Every Friday there is a street food market and the square has incredible fresh produce on sale from the best Guernsey local vendors between 8:30 am and 2:30 pm. The Old Quarter of St Peter Port has a fantastic selection of restaurants and cafes as well as a fabulous mix of specialist and independent shops. For designer wear and fashion boutiques head to Commercial Arcade and Mill Street. 

For the most mouthwatering chocolate, you can’t miss Ben Le Prevost Chocolatier, the chocolates are exceptional and beautifully well made. Step back in time and enjoy The Victorian Shop and Parlour at 26 Cornet Street. It is the perfect place to stop if you are heading to Hauteville house as there are a selection of Victorian gems, surprises and old-fashioned sweets.

There is no VAT in Guernsey and only local taxes are applied, both UK and Jersey currency can be used. Prices for high-street goods in St Peter Port are typically lower than in mainland Britain, however, there are also wonderful independent shops that should not be missed.