Jersey War Tunnels
Les Charrières Malorey, Jersey JE3 1FU
Rating: 4.7 ★ (4151 ratings)
Details
Jersey War Tunnels is a unique underground museum, carved from a partially completed German military hospital, which deeply chronicles Jersey's five years under German occupation during World War II. Dug deep into the island's green hillside, over 1,000 metres of these labyrinthine tunnels offer a poignant, immersive atmosphere, consistently cool no matter the weather outside. It stands out as the only place on the island to experience the full, compelling story of this dark chapter, presenting a visceral sense of the era and the islanders' resilience.
Inside the extensive tunnel complex, visitors navigate detailed exhibitions featuring genuine wartime artefacts, personal testimonies, and poignant recreations of daily life under enemy rule. Interactive exhibits bring the past alive, including a simulated air-raid shelter which conveys the terrifying reality of wartime bombings. The narrative unfolds from the initial invasion and the impossible choice faced by islanders, through desperate times of food shortages, to the emotional events of liberation. Beyond the historical displays, the site also offers a Liberation Café, a sun terrace, a tranquil Garden of Reflection, and even two escape rooms for an alternative challenge.
This powerful historical site is particularly well-suited for history enthusiasts, curious travellers, and families seeking a meaningful and educational experience. A visit works perfectly as a substantial indoor activity, especially on cooler or rainy days, allowing ample time to absorb the profound stories presented. Its overall appeal lies in providing a deeply personal insight into life under occupation, preserving a vital historical record, and serving as a solemn reminder of conflict's impact and the enduring spirit of courage.
Location
Opening Hours
Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Contact
+44 1534 860808 | https://www.jerseywartunnels.com/
Comments
The other great thing about it was that the weather was really hot, but as you got near the tunnel you could feel the temperature dropping significantly; this was a welcome break from some relentless heat!
On arrival parking is easy, there is a large carpark and no steps into the visitor centre. It’s £21 for an adult, you’re given an old style identity card with someone’s details on it; the idea is to find your person in the tunnels and learn about their experience during the occupation of Jersey. There are some powerful stories to read about!
The tunnel complex as mentioned is quite large with rooms coming off them at various points. Each room is packed with information boards to read or TVs with people talking about their war time experience.
There is lots to take in, I’d allow a couple of hours if you want to do the whole thing properly, equally you could scoot through in about an hour and still have a reasonable experience I would guess.
There is a cafe in the visitor centre but we looked at the prices; unless you are one of Jersey’s millionaires I’d refrain from the cafe and wait until you get back into town. Very expensive, but then they have a captive audience!
The visitor centre also has the obligatory gift shop, you can find some of the books that are referenced in the tunnels that the people you read about have written; as well as a plethora of other gifts and items designed to part you from your money.
Based on my experience it was really great, I’d happily recommend a visit. The history and stories are really great to learn about.
We included the audio guide in our visit and it was definitely worth it.
We also visited the onsite restaurant and would definitely recommend a visit.
The tunnels are well worth a visit. Some of the information panels and accounts are quite thought provoking... should you evacuate, or stay and face life under a German occupation army? How do you manage day-to-day life and interact with those occupiers? You may not find a depth of information in the displays (and it would be too cumbersome for the museum to try), but there is sufficient here to make you want to go and read up on the subject if that is something that interests you. At the very least you'll come away from here with an appreciation of the challenges the islanders faced during the war, and how, perhaps, things weren't always as clear cut as you may presume.
I hsd previously visited the underground hospital in Guernsey which was similar in layout but fare more bare and original - This has been decorated and converted properly into a museum, and is far less damp! It is however a bit cold and the air very dry due to dehumidifiers running constantly.
The gift shop is very good and well stocked too, with a decent cafe. A must-do stop for any visitor to Jersey.
There are toilets on site with a lovely gift shop and cafe. Me and my partner purchased many gifts in the gift shop and had a lovely brunch in the cafe, one of the best sausage sandwiches I’ve ever had!
It is also a great place to visit on a rainy day!!
Well recommended to anyone, not just history buffs!
One of the first things I really liked was the ticket design. It is very creative and looks like an old-style passport, which matches the historical theme of the attraction. You can also take it home as a small souvenir, which makes the experience feel even more special.
Inside the tunnels, there is a lot to explore. The history is presented in great detail, with interesting displays, realistic figures, photographs, stories, and information about what life was like during the war. I spent quite a lot of time walking through the different sections and reading the stories.
The tunnels themselves also make the experience more interesting because you are actually walking through a real historical site. Another bonus is that it is quite cool and chilly inside, so it can be a nice place to visit when the weather outside is hot.
Overall, Jersey War Tunnels is definitely worth visiting. It is educational, interesting, and memorable, especially if you want to learn more about World War II and Jersey’s history.