Guernsey named one of UK's best islands for travel

Guernsey has been named the second-best island in the UK in the 2026 Condé Nast Traveller Readers' Choice Awards, finishing ahead of Jersey and behind only the Isles of Scilly off Cornwall.

The island was ranked second in the magazine's list of the UK's top 10 islands, with Jersey placed fifth.

Visit Guernsey marketing manager Sam Claxton said the recognition reflected the mix of attractions visitors could enjoy on the island.

"Visitors really appreciate the unique combination that Guernsey offers," he said. "We've got beautiful beaches, we've got great cliff path. History as well. And then we've got this thriving food scene which has really started to grow."

He said visitors also regularly highlighted the island's welcoming atmosphere, adding: "I think it's the friendliness of our island that leaves the biggest impression."

The rankings were based on readers scoring destinations across several categories, including natural beauty, beaches, food, activities and value for money.

Claxton explained that Guernsey and Jersey had a "friendly rivalry", although the islands often worked together to promote the Channel Islands overseas, particularly in European markets.

He said awards such as these could help attract new visitors because they were based on independent recommendations from travellers.

"We do tend to see a bit of an uptick," he said.

"Recognition like this is incredibly valuable because, obviously, it helps put Guernsey in front of potential visitors who may not have considered us before."

Claxton said it was too early to know whether the latest ranking would boost visitor numbers, but suggested any increase was more likely to be seen next year.

Follow BBC Guernsey on X , Facebook and Instagram . Send your story ideas to channel.islands@bbc.co.uk .

'Near miss' in harbour after boat runs red light

Visitor numbers to rise despite fewer cruise ships

Latest cruise passenger figures 'encouraging'