Expert Guide to Jersey's War Tunnels & Occupation

The Jersey occupation remains an integral part of the Island’s history, as the Channel Islands were the only part of the British Isles to be occupied by German forces during World War Two. The island had been demilitarized by the British government for the safety of their citizens and on the 28^th June 1940, German Air Forces attacked after mistaking civilian farming lorries for troop carriers, which killed 10 people. On the 1^st July General Richthofen, The Commander of the German Air Forces in Normandy, demanded the immediate surrender of the island. White flags and crosses were put up around the Island forced by the Germans and the day after Jersey was occupied by air-borne troops under the command of Hauptmann Gussek.

Jersey had become an impregnable fortress by the demands of Hitler. Thousands of slave workers from around Europe built bunkers, railway systems, tunnel complexes and anti-tank walls. All of these fortifications were part of Hitler’s “Atlantic Wall”. All of these fortifications can be visited to fully experience what life was like for citizens during this time.

On the 3^rd May operation ‘Nestegg’ was set in motion by the British Military with the aim of liberating the Channel Islands by using the British Army units ‘Force 135’. On the 7^th May 1945, the German army has surrendered and the end of the war in Europe was announced. Force 135 arrived in Jersey on the morning of 8 May and together with the officials they negotiated terms for German surrender. At 3:00pm Winston Churchill announced the end of the war and on 9 May Siegfried Heine signed the Instrument of Surrender of the German Command of the Channel Islands, effecting their capitulation. The 9 May is now known as Liberation Day and widely celebrated amongst the citizens of Jersey.

For an interesting historical experience and to discover Jersey’s occupation story there is an assortment of historical sites that you can visit. You can even take a guided tour to learn about the specifics of each location.

Jersey War Tours

Learn about the Occupation with Jersey War Tours. Offering private bunker tours not open to the public, Jersey War Tours is the only Non-Profit Organisation offering military tours on the island. You’ll get the chance to visit 3 fortifications and handle WWII weaponry, mines and artifacts (all safe).  JWT also offers evening bunker tours, offering a unique and unforgettable atmosphere when discovering the fortifications. Any profit JWT makes is reinvested back into WW2 research, preservation, education and archaeology. JWT is passionate about sharing Jersey’s history with you to offer an experience you won’t forget. Visit JWT here.

Where are the Jersey War Tunnels?

The war tunnels are located in St. Lawrence, which is 4 miles north-west of St Helier, so easily accessible by bus, car or the Jersey War Tunnel shuttle bus which runs between April - October.

What were the Jersey War Tunnels used for?

The tunnels and bunkers were used by German forces during the German occupation of Jersey to protect their troops, supplies and equipment from bombing

How long does it take to walk around the Jersey war tunnels?

For the average visitor, it takes around 2 hours to explore the war tunnels. You can extend your tour by taking part in activities at the craft centre, walk around the war trail or visit the Garden of Reflection.

Does Jersey have an underground hospital?

Yes, an underground hospital was built and used  by German Forces between 1940 - 1945 during the occupation to treat soldiers and store ammunition.