Herm Island: A Guide to Britain's Best-Kept Secret in the Channel Islands
Car-free Herm has white-sand beaches, turquoise water and coastal walks – how to visit this tiny Channel Island from Guernsey, where to stay and what to do.
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With white sand, clear turquoise water and not a single car, Herm could pass for a Greek island. In fact it's a tiny Channel Island just off Guernsey – and one of the British Isles' most peaceful escapes.
1. Shell Beach
On the island's east coast, this long beach is made up of countless tiny shells. The water is clear and the sand stays quiet even in summer.
2. Belvoir Bay
A sheltered cove with soft sand and calm water, perfect for swimming. A small café opens in season.
3. Walk the coastal path
A path circles the whole island, passing cliffs, beaches and the common in the north. It's an easy walk of a couple of hours.
4. The harbour village
Herm's small harbour has a pub, a shop, a hotel and the tiny St Tugual's Chapel.
5. Wildlife
Look out for seabirds, rock pools at low tide and, offshore, seals and dolphins.
6. Day trip or stay over
Most visitors come for the day from Guernsey, but staying overnight lets you enjoy the island after the last ferry leaves.
Getting there
Fly or sail to Guernsey, then take the ferry from St Peter Port. Check the tide-dependent ferry times before you go.
Frequently asked questions
How do you get to Herm?
Ferries run from St Peter Port in Guernsey and take about 20 minutes. Guernsey has flights from several UK airports and ferries from England and France.
Can you stay overnight on Herm?
Yes. The island has a small hotel, self-catering cottages and a campsite. Book well ahead for summer.
Are cars allowed on Herm?
No – Herm is car-free, so you explore on foot. The island is small enough to walk around in a couple of hours.
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