Alderney
Alderney is the third largest of the Channel Islands, is roughly 3 miles long by 1½ at its widest, about 2,000 acres in extent and is situated in the mouth of the Channel, 9 miles due West of Cap de la Hague in Normandy.
Until the mid 18th century, when the first harbour at Braye was built, in historic times almost the entire population lived in the town area, developed from the original ‘nucleated village’ settlement in a hollow around the Bourgage and the old church. There were only the water mill at Platte Saline and few buildings, except for defensive positions, outside this area. The farm buildings were mostly attached to the houses, many of which were built back into the slope of the ground behind them.
Elizabethan Wreck
Alderney is renowned for its severe tides and its rugged and dangerous coastline. Over the centuries it has proved the undoing of dozens of ships, many well known, some obscure and some whose wrecks still await discovery. Each shipwreck represents a moment frozen in time, but one in particular has provoked world-wide interest - a vessel which came to grief towards the end of the sixteenth century. If preliminary findings are correct, this is the only known wreck of an English warship of the Elizabethan Age, perhaps even one of the ships which fought against the Spanish Armada.
For further details please visit www.visitalderney.com
Sark
Sark has a fascinating history with evidence that shows that the Island was occupied as far back as the megalithic period, as well as finds of Roman horse-silver, dating from the first century BC.
These days Sark holds a unique position within the Channel Islands, which themselves hold an unusual position in Her Majesty's possessions, in that they are not part of the United Kingdom or Great Britain nor are they sovereign states.
The Island is the last feudal system in Europe although this is about to change. In 2008, a new constitution has been approved by HM Queen Elizabeth II through Privy Council and, (subject to there being no successful petitions against) a general election for a new style government will be held in December 2008. The next government will be made up of 28 fully elected Conseilleurs and The Seigneur and Seneschal will still have a role. In the new government there will be no protected seats for landowners.
More detail about Sark’s colourful history is available on the Island’s website at: www.sark.info
Herm
Herm has enjoyed a colourful history and many vestiges of the past can still be seen. The island of today is quite different to bygone eras when the public had no access. Great efforts were made in many ways to harness the island's assets and allure before the advent of tourism.
The island has been home to neolithic man, monks, quarrymen, farmers, writers, artists and wealthy entrepreneurs. Details of their rich and colourful lifestyles are detailed in Hidden Treasures of Herm Island by Catherine Kalamis, available at the Herm Island Gift Shops.
For further details please visit www.Herm-Island.com