The Channel Islands are a geographic archipelago consisting of two political organizations: the Bailiwick of Guernsey and the Bailiwick of Jersey. Both of these are crown dependencies, or self-governing positions of the United Kingdomand include numerous other islands including Herm, Sark, Borhou, and Alderney. Being so close to France, the islands have an interesting mix of English and French cultures and a fascinating history that includes English castles, French authors, and even occupation by Nazi Germany. The coastlines, mountains, wetlands, and habitats re beautiful and worth seeing. We have outlined ten things we think you should see on the Channel Islands and if you think we left something out, let us know in the comments.

La Coupee – Sark

Certainly not a walk for those afraid of heights, La Coupee can be found in the Island of Sark and connects the Big Sark and Little Sark. This causeway rises sharply and provides wonderful views of the Channel and other islands.

Shell Beach – Herm

So named for the wide variety of different shells you can find there, Shell Beach on Herm Island is one of the longest stretches of beach on any of the Channel Islands. Shell Beach measures at nearly three-quarters of a mile and offers quite a lot of space for visitors as well as necessary beach amenities from ice cream to water toys.

Hauteville House – Guernsey

Also known as the Victor Hugo House, Hauteville House was Hugo’s residence on Guernsey from 1856 to 1870 during his exile from France. Originally built by an English privateer and spent some time before Hugo acquired it empty as it was feared to be haunted. Today it is a house museum for the author and is gorgeous within and without.

Victoria Tower – Guernsey

Victoria Tower looks like the world’s biggest chess piece and was constructed in 1848 to honor Queen Victoria’s visit to the island two years earlier. For a time it was closed to the public but has been open again since 2006 and offers some spectacular views of Guernsey.

Jersey Museum and Art Gallery – Jersey

Jersey Museum and Art Gallery offers visitors a chance to engage with the history of the bailiwick as well as immerse themselves in the culture of this island. The museum’s artefacts go back 250,000 years, and the gallery includes works from local artists. You can even learn the island’s own unique blend of English and French.

World War II Sites – Multiple locations

From 1940 to 1945, the Channel Islands were the only British territories occupied by Nazi Germany. The German Occupation Museum on Guernsey is one of best overall museums of this period, though it’s also worth visiting the La Valette Underground Military Museum in St. Peter Port which was a refueling station for U-Boats, the Jersey Tunnels that operated as a German hospital, and the Lager Sylt Concentration Camp on Alderney. Each offers a different picture of what life was like for the island residents living under Nazi control.

Sausmarez Manor – Guernsey

One of the finest examples of a manor house in the Channel Islands, the Sausmarez family has been one of the most important families on the Island of Guernsey since the 12th Century. The manor house has been through several incarnations, and its current family has lived here for several generations over 600 years. House and garden tours are offered throughout the year, and there is even a ghost tour for the brave of heart.

Jersey Zoo – Jersey

The Jersey Zoo is one of the islands’ top attractions since it opened in 1959 and offers a wonderful opportunity to come into contact with a wide variety of animals, even some you won’t find anywhere else. Formerly known as Durrell Wildlife Park, it is home to gorillas, lemurs, tropical birds, meerkats, and local reptiles and amphibians.

St Peter Port – Guernsey/St Helier – Jersey

The hub of life in Guernsey, St Peter Port is the capital of the Bailiwick of Guernsey and is home to many of the attractions on this list. It also includes some great shopping and dining opportunities, making it a top destination for your trip to the islands. Likewise, St Helier, the capital of Jersey, offers numerous opportunities to engage in that island’s history and culture, starting with Liberation Square and wandering outwards from there.

Mont Ogueil Castle – Jersey

Also known as Gorey Castle, Mont Ogueil has been a defensive fort for the Island of Jersey since the time of King John. It has been a part of most of Britain’s major conflicts ever since, including World War II when German forces added modern lookout towers intended to blend in with the castle’s ancient architecture. Having seen so much use, it is incredibly well-preserved and offers tours regularly.