Magnificent St. Matthews Glass Church decorates the terrain of this large parish, whose underground is carved up by an extensive labyrinth of war tunnels.
Pockets of quaint settlements populate the large parish area of St. Lawrence in the heart of Jersey. Its southern coastline overlooks St. Aubin’s Bay, while valleys, meadows and farms characterize the terrain farther inland. Head to local museums to learn about the island’s difficult time during World War II.
The Jersey War Tunnels are a maze of underground paths set up by the Germans to defend against Allied bombardment. Delve into the deep and narrow tunnels and scurry through the displays. Photos show the effects of the 5-year German occupation of the island, which was left defenseless by mainland Britain. See the re-creation of a typical household and consider the effect the occupation had on food rations.
Walk southwest for a few minutes to reach Le Moulin de Quétivel. As the island’s only working water mill, the site is ideal to learn about its processes. Exhibits shed light on Jersey’s industrial, agricultural and exportation history.
The Hamptonne Country Life Museum continues this tradition. Its displays feature old-world tools and machines that helped to work the farms. Bring your kids to the play areas and let them pet the pigs and cows.
Beside Coronation Park that fringes the beach stands St. Matthew’s Church, also know as the Glass Church in reference to its glass works of art by French designer René Lalique. See the frosted angels and sparkling screens in this glass-filled church, which dates back to 1840.
Head to the beach and purchase fresh seafood from a café. As you beachcomb west along the strand, notice Beaumont Tower, which was built in the 1700s.
The parish runs from the center of the island to St. Aubin’s Bay on its southern coast, between St. Aubin and St. Helier. Arrive at the Jersey Airport and drive east for 10 minutes to reach the heart of the area.
St. Lawrence helps us understand the fascinating military and agricultural history of Jersey.