Top winter activities in Jersey
One thing's for sure - Jersey is very much alive in the winter, when you will find there is so much to see and do. From strolling along a beautiful frost-bitten beach to visiting a luxurious spa, this is the perfect season for you to discover the island.
Known for its delicious food, you can tuck into seasonal produce at one of the gourmet restaurants, before paying a visit to one of the traditional pubs where you can sup a real ale by the open fire. If you're a fan of the great outdoors, you will certainly find much to enjoy, as the landscape - beautiful all year round - is particularly mesmerising during the colder months.
Should you really want a trip to remember, consider visiting the largest of the Channel Islands during the festive season and checking out what's on in Jersey during this time.
One thing you may certainly want to do is book a seat for the annual pantomime - after all, Christmas wouldn't be complete without shouting "he's behind you" at least once.
The Jersey Opera House in the capital of St Helier is playing host to Sleeping Beauty this year, but expect the production to have a bit of a modern twist. In honour of this year's Royal Wedding, Beauty will be named Princess Catherine. After the evil fairy casts a spell on her in retaliation for being left off an important wedding guest list, will Prince William be able to save her in time?
Another fun activity to take advantage of during the festive season is ice-skating. You will find a rink set up in the capital's Parade Gardens where you can take a spin or two beneath the stars.
If this is a family holiday, don't miss out on the opportunity to visit Father Christmas himself. Luckily, he has set up grottos and workshops across the island so you can take your little ones to visit - and this is sure to be a highlight of their trip.
Ransom's Garden Centre in St Martin, St Peter's Garden Centre in St Peter, the Home Grown Country Store in Grouville and Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust in Trinity will all be hosting a grotto this year, while the latter has a few additional treats in store for visitors.
On December 20th, some of the park's animal residents will be getting their own festive treat. Orangutans will be given crackers to play with, while the meerkats will be offered a special Christmas pudding that's packed full of healthy nutrients for them.
You may have decided to stay on the island for the big day itself, in which case there is an annual tradition you could take part in - if you're feeling brave enough. Two beaches in Jersey hold a Christmas Day swim, with many of the locals who plunge into the cold water doing so to raise money for charity.
There are often dozens of spectators who turn out to watch these events and you may wish to experience the atmosphere as they cheer participants on. Head to Havre de Pas in St Helier between 11:00 GMT and midday to watch the Jersey Swimming Club rise to the challenge, or Ouaisne Beach in St Brelade at 10:00 GMT. Here, all of the swimmers are given a warming mug of mulled wine and some mince pies once they are back on dry land, which they can enjoy at the Old Smugglers Inn.
Why not see what Jersey special offers you can take advantage of this winter?
