The German Occupation of Jersey
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Port
St Helier, Jersey
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
Information Not Currently Available
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$250
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 3½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Explore areas of Jersey associated with the occupation, including the war tunnels and underground hospital, on this fascinating day steeped in history.
As the only part of the British Isles to be occupied by the Germans during the Second World War, the Channel Islands became part of Hitler’s "Atlantic Wall," an extensive system of fortifications built between 1942 and 1945 along the western coast of Europe and Scandinavia to defend against a possible Allied invasion of the mainland continent from Great Britain.
With its commanding views, it’s hardly surprising that Noirmont was one of the most heavily fortified spots chosen by the Germans. The main part of the headland was subsequently purchased by the Jersey government and retained in its original state as a permanent memorial to those killed in the war. You will be able to see the command bunker and a number of the strategically located gun emplacements.
Continue toward the center of the island, and arrive at the Jersey war tunnels and underground hospital. The war tunnels and other fortifications that the Nazis built here were largely constructed by forced laborers, including thousands from the Soviet Union, who were brought to Jersey by the Germans to carry out the work under terrible conditions.
Planned as a bombproof artillery barracks and ammunition store for the occupying forces, this extensive complex was built deep into the hillside within St. Peter’s Valley and was never fully completed. As Allied invasion loomed, unfinished tunnels were sealed off. Fortunately, the anticipated invasion (in which the thousands of probable civilian casualties would not have been treated in the underground facilities) never took place, and the occupying forces surrendered peacefully on May 9, 1945, a day after the rest of Europe.
As you explore these underground tunnels, you’ll be amazed at the works of engineering genius.
Today, the tunnels house an informative exhibition and many remaining artifacts, including the boiler room, operating theater, telephone exchange and general stores.
After viewing this underground complex, enjoy approximately 30 minutes free time before making the scenic return drive back to the port
Please note: The temperature inside the tunnels is always much cooler than the outside and it is recommended that you wear a sweater or light coat. The tunnels are also very extensive, and in parts fairly dark. Although there are no steps you should take into consideration the amount of walking involved and that approximately one and a half hours is needed to visit this venue.