Art in the Arches 2026: Elizabeth Marina's Beautiful Open-Air Mural Gallery

Hey everyone, Alyssa here! Summer has officially arrived in the Channel Islands, and St Helier is currently buzzing with that unmistakable, warm-weather energy. If you are anything like me, your perfect weekend involves a blend of fresh sea air, a little bit of local culture, and ideally, an excellent iced coffee or a fantastic seafood lunch. This season, our island's capital is offering exactly that, thanks to a brilliantly vibrant outdoor exhibition. The third instalment of the much-loved mural project has just launched, making it the perfect time to plan a leisurely stroll to see Art in the Arches Jersey.

Running from late June right through to mid-September 2026, the concrete archways of Elizabeth Marina are being completely transformed into a public gallery. This year's theme is 'Safe Haven', and watching the artists bring this concept to life against the backdrop of bobbing yachts and historic castles is something you simply shouldn't miss. Before we dive into my suggested walking route and food stops, here is a quick look at the key details to help you plan your day out.

Quick details

Event / Venue	Dates	Times	Location	Tickets & Info
Art in the Arches: Safe Haven	24 Jun - 17 Sep 2026	Open 24/7	Elizabeth Marina, St Helier	Free entry. ArtHouse Jersey
Seeing The Light Exhibition	20 Jun 2026 - 31 Dec 2027	10:00 - 17:00	Jersey Museum, St Helier	Free entry. Jersey Heritage
Phantom of the Opera & West End Classics	26 - 27 Jun 2026	19:30	Jersey Opera House	From £15.00. Book here

As always, whilst the open-air gallery is always accessible, please do check the official venue websites for the most up-to-date opening hours and ticket availability for museum exhibitions and theatre shows before setting off.

The 'Safe Haven' Stroll

To really appreciate the scale and setting of Art in the Arches, I highly recommend making a proper morning or afternoon of it. Start your journey in the heart of St Helier at Liberation Square. From here, you can pick up the designated walking path that hugs the harbour. There is something incredibly soothing about the gentle clinking of boat masts in the summer breeze as you wander towards the Waterfront.

As you approach Elizabeth Marina, the pops of vibrant colour begin to emerge from the usually grey concrete underpass. Organised by ArtHouse Jersey, the 'Safe Haven' project features 17 brand-new murals. The theme feels incredibly fitting for an island community; artists have interpreted 'Safe Haven' in wonderfully diverse ways, touching on everything from maritime sanctuary and historical refuge to mental wellbeing and environmental protection.

What makes June and July particularly special is that the exhibition is still evolving. If you visit over the next few weeks, you will likely catch some of the local and visiting artists painting live. It is a fantastic, family-friendly way to engage with art. You can watch the creative process unfold, chat with the painters, and capture some brilliant, colourful photographs for your summer memories. Best of all? It is entirely free to enjoy.

From the marina, the view out across St Aubin's Bay is spectacular. The grand silhouette of Elizabeth Castle sits majestically out in the bay. If you time your walk right with the low tide, you can even stroll out across the causeway to explore this 400-year-old fortress, which famously provided refuge for King Charles II. It's a wonderful way to extend your coastal walk and dive a little deeper into Jersey's dramatic history.

Expanding Your Cultural Itinerary

If you are craving even more visual inspiration after taking in the murals, St Helier's indoor art scene is having a stellar summer. Just a short walk back towards the Weighbridge, you'll find the brilliant Jersey Museum & Art Gallery. They have just opened a captivating new exhibition called 'Seeing The Light'.

Jersey has long held a legendary reputation amongst painters for its pristine, inspirational natural light. This exhibition showcases rare, previously unseen works from the Jersey Heritage collection that explore exactly how the island's light has captivated artists over the centuries. It is the perfect conceptual pairing with your outdoor mural walk, offering a quiet, air-conditioned retreat if the midday sun gets a bit too warm.

For those looking to make a full weekend of it, St Helier's newly renovated flagship theatre is putting on some unmissable shows. Catching the 'Phantom of the Opera and West End Classics' concert at the Jersey Opera House is a truly magical way to cap off a day of exploring. And looking slightly ahead into July, the local debut of the global smash-hit musical 'Come From Away' will be taking to the same stage—a show that echoes the very themes of community and safe haven that you'll see painted on the marina arches.

Where to Eat, Drink, and Relax Nearby

No leisurely stroll is complete without a little indulgence, and the area surrounding Elizabeth Marina is packed with brilliant options for every palate and budget.

If you want to stay right in the heart of the action with unparalleled views of the marina, the Radisson Blu Waterfront Hotel, Jersey is an exceptional choice. Their waterfront terrace is arguably one of the best spots in St Helier to sip a chilled glass of wine or a coffee whilst watching the yachts glide in and out of the harbour. It makes for a fabulous base camp if you are visiting for the weekend, complete with a lovely indoor pool to cool off in.

For something a bit more casual, continue your walk past the marina along the sweeping curve of Victoria Avenue. Here, you will stumble upon The Lookout Beach Cafe & Restaurant. This is a personal favourite of mine for a relaxed brunch or an early evening bite. The vibe is super cute and laid-back. I highly recommend grabbing a table outside and ordering their delicious chicken burger with sublime cheesy fries. They are open late enough during the summer to catch the beginning of the sunset, making it a perfect pitstop.

Alternatively, if you are planning a more luxurious evening—perhaps a pre-theatre dinner before heading to the Opera House—make your way back to Liberation Square. The iconic Pomme d’Or Hotel is steeped in local history and offers a spectacular dining experience. Treat yourself to a sumptuous seafood dinner while overlooking the harbour you just walked. The central location means you are only ever a few minutes' walk from the theatre, the museum, or the bus station.

A Few Practical Tips for Your Walk

Jersey's weather in June and July is usually glorious, but the coastal breeze around the marina can sometimes carry a little chill. I always suggest bringing a light layer, even on a sunny day. The terrain around the harbour and marina is mostly flat and paved, making it highly accessible for pushchairs, wheelchairs, and those who prefer a gentler stroll. Do remember your suncream, as there is limited shade once you are out on the marina walkways looking at the murals.

If you are driving into St Helier, parking at the Waterfront car park or the Esplanade puts you right at the starting line for your Art in the Arches tour. However, the island's bus network is fantastic, and the main Liberation Station is just a five-minute walk from the first mural, so leaving the car behind is very easy.

Whether you are a passionate art lover, a family looking for an engaging free activity, or simply someone who appreciates a beautiful coastal walk with good food along the way, this corner of St Helier is shining brightly this summer. Take your time, enjoy the fresh sea breeze, and let the creativity of our island inspire you.

Happy strolling!

Alyssa x