Top Educational Days Out for Children in the Channel Islands
Looking to blend learning with fun during your family adventures? The Channel Islands offer a variety of engaging and educational days out for children. Whether you’re raising a curious toddler, a school-age explorer, or a teen with a passion for history or nature, these destinations will spark curiosity and create lasting memories.
Here are the best educational experiences for kids across Guernsey and Jersey.
1. Solve a Story with Bailiwick Trails
Combine critical thinking, local geography, and storytelling with a family-friendly adventure from Bailiwick Trails. Each downloadable trail transforms a walk into an immersive mystery with puzzles, clues, and real-world learning. Children apply reading, observation, teamwork, and logic as they follow the path and unravel the story. Perfect for home education and weekend outings alike.
2. Visit La Hougue Bie (Jersey)
Step back nearly 6,000 years at this ancient Neolithic burial site. Kids can crawl inside the burial chamber, climb the medieval chapel on top, and explore the archaeology museum. There’s also a replica of a WW2 German command bunker that brings history to life.
3. Discover Castle Cornet (Guernsey)
This coastal fortress is home to several small museums, including maritime, military, and natural history exhibits. With cannon displays, dressing-up areas, and frequent living history events, Castle Cornet is a great way to make learning exciting.
4. Explore the Jersey Zoo (Durrell Wildlife Park)
Founded by the conservationist Gerald Durrell, this zoo is more than just animal enclosures. With conservation at its heart, the park teaches children about endangered species, ecosystems, and animal care. The interactive exhibits and talks are ideal for school-age kids.
5. Learn at the Guernsey Museum (Candie Gardens)
This museum covers everything from prehistoric Guernsey to modern culture. Kids love the discovery room, where they can handle objects, dress up, and complete interactive tasks. The peaceful gardens outside offer a chance to unwind after learning.
6. Tour Hamptonne Country Life Museum (Jersey)
Step into Jersey’s rural past with traditional farmhouses, heritage animals, and costumed interpreters. Learn about cider making, bread baking, and old-school chores. It’s a hands-on experience that turns the past into something real.
7. Walk the Wetlands at Les Mielles (Jersey)
Take a self-guided nature walk through this protected area, home to rare birds and wildflowers. Use a printable wildlife spotting sheet or make your own. Great for introducing children to ecology and the importance of preserving natural spaces.
8. Climb into the Past at the German Underground Hospital (Guernsey)
This enormous WW2 tunnel complex gives children a visceral understanding of wartime occupation. With its dimly lit corridors and preserved exhibits, it’s a powerful educational experience for older kids and teens.
9. Join a Coastal Rockpool Safari (Both Islands)
Bring a bucket and net and head to the shore. Many local environmental groups also host free or low-cost guided rockpooling sessions that teach kids about marine life, tides, and ecosystems.
10. Explore Astronomy at the Observatories
Guernsey and Jersey both have small but active astronomical societies that offer public viewing nights. Kids can learn about the stars, planets, and galaxies—and maybe even spot Saturn through a telescope!
Bonus: Make Learning an Ongoing Adventure
Use Bailiwick Trails as a regular educational tool. With new trails, seasonal stories, and curriculum-friendly challenges, they’re ideal for homeschoolers, school groups, and parents who want more from their day out.