Looking to increase your knowledge of the British Isles and better your chances of being crowned the next pub quiz champion? Start by learning these fun facts about Guernsey!
1. Where is Guernsey?
Guernsey is located in the English Channel, just off the coast of Normandy, France.
2. There are no direct neighbours to Guernsey.
Due to being an island it does not have any bordering countries, however its nearest neighbours are England to the North, France to the East and South and Jersey to the South East.
3. How to find it with a compass.
The co-ordinates for Guernsey are 49.4500° N, 2.5500°
4. It’s tiny!
The total area of Guernsey is 30 square miles (78 square kilometres).
5. The population isn’t much bigger.
Guernsey’s population was 64,421 in 2023.
6. What is the capital of Guernsey?
The capital is St Peter Port which has an area of 2.5 square miles (6.5 square kilometres) and a population of 18,958 (2019).
7. It’s a bit of an oddity.
Neither a part of the United Kingdom nor the European Union, Guernsey is actually a British Crown Dependancy.
8. It pretty much governs itself.
Guernsey has its own parliament called ‘The States of Deliberation’ through which local taxes, laws and legislation are passed.
9. Apparently, it split off from Europe.
Guernsey wasn’t always an island; due to rising sea levels it separated from France around 6000 BC.
10. A very popular story was once written here.
‘Les Misérables’ was written by Victor Hugo whilst living in Guernsey!
11. You’ll live long and prosper here.
The average life span here is an amazing 82.9 years, ranking it 9th highest in the world! (2016).
12. What do people speak in Guernsey?
The official languages of Guernsey are both English and Guernésiais, Guernsey’s own regional variation of French.
13. Check your currency before you travel.
Guernsey Pound is the official currency of Guernsey, however the British Pound is also accepted.
14. It’s lovely for walking.
The terrain here is mostly flat with a few low hills in the south west, perfect for walking and exploring its luscious green fields and beautiful coastline! Bliss.
15. Try the local bread!
Guernsey Gâche is a traditional bread specific to Guernsey, made with raisins, sultanas and mixed peel and served with local butter. Sounds yummy!
16. It’s also big on dairy.
Guernsey is famous for its dairy produce, including milk, butter, cheese and ice cream. They also grow fruits, vegetables and flowers.
17. The trade in Guernsey is really varied.
Its industry consists of tourism, banking, manufacturing and service based companies…
Guernsey also exports dairy products, fruit and vegetables and meat products.
18. Want to keep in touch?
To call your friends in Guernsey, you’ll need to use the international dialing code +44 1481.
FAQs about Guernsey
Is Guernsey part of France or England?
Technically neither, though it is officially a dependency of the British Crown - it’s self-governing.
Is it expensive to live in Guernsey?
Across the UK, it’s thought that Guernsey is the most expensive rental location countrywide..
Is Guernsey warmer than Jersey?
While Jersey may be famous for getting lots of sunshine, temperatures in Guernsey often end up being much higher!
Do you know any fun facts about Guernsey? Share them in the comments below!
