Experiences | Culture & History 20 August 2024

Indoor Activities to Try on the Islands of Guernsey

From underground German bunkers to making your very own bespoke candles, there's something for everyone on the Islands of Guernsey, no matter what the weather.

Here's our list of curated suggestions for history buffs, artists, explorers and more.

For History Lovers

The Islands of Guernsey hold centuries of history. From ancient castles to underground German bunkers left behind from the occupation, you'll find plenty to explore. 

German Underground Hospital

The German Underground Hospital and Ammunition Store is the largest structural reminder of the German Occupation in the Channel Islands.

Almost invisible from the surface, the maze of tunnels covers an area of about 6,950 square metres (75,000 square feet) and is full of history to discover. Explore at your own pace or book a guided tour. 

Entry prices: adult £5, child (under 15) £2.50, infant (under 2) free.

Victor Hugo's House

Hauteville House was the home of writer Victor Hugo during his exile from France.

Whilst in Guernsey, Hugo wrote many of his masterpieces, including Les Misérables, Toilers of the Sea, The Man Who Laughs, The Legend of the Ages and Le Théâtre en Liberté. The house itself is also a work of art, with its layout and eclectic décor designed by Hugo himself.

The house can be viewed via guided tour only, which needs to be booked in advance.

Guernsey Museum at Candie

Guernsey Museum at Candie houses multiple permanent exhibitions, covering everything from folklore to Guernsey's early people, which features recent archaeological discoveries.

It also contains the Rona Cole Gallery, the Discovery Room for children and families, plus a rolling programme of temporary exhibitions. 

Entry to Guernsey Museum is included in the Discovery Pass

German Occupation Museum

The German Occupation Museum provides a unique insight into life in Guernsey during the occupation from 1940 to 1945.

The museum has an authentic recreation of an occupation-era street, as well as exhibitions on maritime history and Second World War fortifications.

Located within walking distance of the airport, it's a must-visit for history lovers.

Fort Grey

Known locally as the "Cup and Saucer", Fort Grey is a Martello Tower built in 1804 to defend Guernsey's west coast.

The Martello Tower now houses the Shipwreck Museum, and includes a large variety of objects recovered from the wrecks. Information panels tell the gripping stories surrounding the disasters which date from the HMS Sprightly in 1777 to the Vermontborg in 2003.

Entry to Fort Grey is included in the Discovery Pass.

Castle Cornet's Museums

Whilst an umbrella may be needed to navigate between them on rainy days, Castle Cornet has four history-packed museums: the Story of Castle Cornet Museum, the 201 Squadron (RAF) Museum, the Royal Guernsey Light Infantry Museum, and the Royal Guernsey Militia Museum. 

There is also a café which offers light meals and snacks, where you can enjoy views of Herm and Sark, as well as a gift shop.

Entry to Castle Cornet and its museums is included in the Discovery Pass

Guernsey Folk & Costume Museum

Travel back to a simpler time at the National Trust of Guernsey's Folk and Costume Museum, set around a cobbled courtyard in the heart of Saumarez Park.

Here, the story of Guernsey's people over the past 250 years is told through displays of trade, transport, fashion and everyday items.

Less than a 15-minute drive from the town centre of St Peter Port and easily accessible by bus, the museum is access-friendly with free entry for all visitors.

For Families

When it comes to entertainment for the whole family, the Islands of Guernsey are full of fun indoor activities.

Oaty & Joey's Playbarn

From climbing ropes and ball pits, to pipes to crawl through and obstacles to navigate, Oaty & Joey's is perfect for those with young children.

The Playbarn offers one of the largest play frames in Britain, with several slides (including a giant 6.3m astra slide) as well as party rooms, a trampoline barn, e-cars, pool and air hockey tables, and against-the-clock basketball. There is also a Highway 66 Bowling Alley with a jukebox.

For the creative, why not make a bear or paint your own pottery?

Throughout August and the beginning of September, Oaty & Joey's Playbarn is offering autism-friendly sessions.

Beau Cinema

With the largest cinema screen on the island, Beau Cinema is a popular venue for all ages with a Cafe for drinks and snacks to take into the movie.

Based in Beau Sejour Leisure Centre, recent releases, old favourites and children's films are all shown throughout the year. 

Wheelchair access is available to selected seats.

Beau Sejour is also home to Guernsey's main theatre, with more information and bookings available on their website. 

The Wombles at Alderney Museum

The Wombles are a community of furry, long-nosed burrowing creatures created by children's book author Elisabeth Beresford who lived in Alderney permanently from 1978 until she died in 2010.

Come see the original adorable soft toys at Alderney Museum in Alderney, just a 15-minute flight from Guernsey.

You can also ask the Custodian to play the CD specially recorded for the exhibition by Bernard Cribbins, the voice of the Wombles.

The Mallard Cinema

The Mallard Cinema is situated at the Mallard Complex in Forest and features four screens. Each auditorium is equipped with the latest screen and projection systems and all feature Dolby surround sound.

You'll find classic cinema treats including a Pick 'n' Mix sweet selection, freshly popped American-style popcorn, slush puppies and candy bars to enjoy with your film.

Head to The Mallard's website for film listings and timings.

The Children's Library

The Guille-Alles Library's impressive building houses an excellent children's room, full of colourful books and cozy corners. 

The library also offers weekly rhyme and story time for babies and toddlers (places must be booked), as well as open story times for pre-school children and families, and holiday activities for school-aged children.

For Adventurers

Want to get your blood pumping? Guernsey has plenty to do in the way of indoor sports and fast-paced activities.

Up Climbing

Up Climbing is an indoor climbing centre with a range of different climbing experiences for all ages and is a great activity for those wanting to try their hand at something different.

The Centre has traverse climbing walls, boulders and auto or manual belay high walls.

Adventure Rooms Guernsey

Located at the Fermain Valley Hotel, teams are locked in a room and given 60 minutes to find and solve a series of hidden clues, codes and puzzles. 

This activity requires a minimum of 4 people and has a maximum of 14 people.

Make a day or night of it and book into one of the restaurants: Búho, The Rock Garden, Ocean or The Terrace at Fermain.

Beau Sejour Leisure Centre

With plenty of facilities - including a pool, gym, cafe, sports hall and cinema - Beau Sejour has something for everyone and is conveniently located just a 10-minute drive from central St Peter Port.

Facilities can be used on a pay-as-you-go basis, or with a holiday pass that can be purchased from Beau Sejour reception.

Aztech Soccer

The Aztech Soccer Arena was founded on the principle that football is for everyone, and that everyone can always improve.

The centre has a purpose-built arena that prioritises small-sided games where players enjoy maximum touches of the ball and continuous involvement.

Players aged 7 and above are welcome on the indoor 3G pitch, outdoor 4G pitch and Tech Zone – their football ‘gym’ – which provides the ultimate challenge.

More information is available on their website.

Indoor Bowls

The stadium is open every morning and evening during the winter season which runs from 1 October to 30 April each year. The stadium can be opened by arrangement at other times.

Visitors are always welcome, with bowls and shoe hire available on request. Temporary memberships are available. 

There are also bar facilities in the evenings where you can relax after your game.

Guernsey Tennis Club

Play like the pros all year round on Guernsey’s only indoor tennis courts. Set in a 24,000 square ft hall with championship quality lighting, these world-class plexi-cushion courts offer perfect conditions to ensure you get hitting to your full potential.

There are also three indoor padel courts on-site, available through the Guernsey Padel Club

Guernsey Tennis Club also has a bar/café where you can enjoy a variety of snacks and hot and cold drinks after your game.

For the Artistic

Whether you want to learn to cook some delicious Guernsey Gache, craft your very own TikTok-famous Guernsey Candle or relax with some pottery painting, the Islands of Guernsey are full of fun, creative activities. 

Guernsey Candles

Try your hand at making one of Guernsey Candles' TikTok-famous candles. 

The family-run business takes you through the multiple stages of creating and carving your very own bespoke candle and also features a gift shop where all types of candles are on display as well as many other exclusive items.

Iris & Dora & Make and Made Guernsey

Visit this small, family-run art studio on the outskirts of St Peter Port to find your inner creativity, learn a new craft, or hone your skills. Pop in and paint some pottery, or book in for one of their other activities or courses, from screen printing to watercolour painting, run by local artists. All of their upcoming classes and workshops can be found on their website.

There is also a gift shop to explore, full of beautiful, locally-made creations. 

You can also visit their store and pottery painting venue, Make and Made, in the Arcade in St Peter Port - perfect for a rainy day.

Cookery Masterclass at Saints Bay Hotel

Learn how to throw the perfect pizza or how to bake a delicious Guernsey Gache at Saints Bay Hotel.

These sessions are perfect for any occasion such as team building, stag nights, hen dos, children’s birthday parties or just a fun activity to do with friends.

Booking is required. Call 01481 238888 or email info@saintsbayhotel.com.

Pretty Okay Candles Co.

Drop into this Candle Bar in St Peter Port to make your own bespoke and custom-scented candle.

Learn about the candle-making process and try your hand at pouring your own candle with a complimentary glass of bubbles/soft drink. 

You can even personalise your candle with your own wording. Visit their website to book your session.

The Art for Guernsey Gallery

The Gallery hosts international artists every year to produce artworks inspired by the island and collaborates with local artists to feature in exciting exhibitions with high curation standards. 

With free entry, the Art for Guernsey Gallery is a great place to take a look around on a rainy day.

All indoor activities on the Islands of Guernsey

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