A year in the life

There’s plenty to occupy you in Guernsey, from alfresco dining and air displays to walking, culinary and literary festivals. Rosie Paterson rounds up the year’s events

Until Sept 16 Hugo—visions of Exile

Banished from his native France, Belgium and Jersey, novelist Victor Hugo sought refuge in Guernsey in 1855, staying 15 years. This exhibition examines his drawings, created on the island. You can also visit Hugo’s property—hauteville House in St Peter Port—where he wrote Les Misérables (www.museums.gov.gg/gmag)

July 22 Motorsport Seafront Sunday

On Sundays during the summer, visitors to St Peter Port can enjoy myriad market stalls and alfresco dining options. July 22 will also boast a Twisty Sprint, a stunt rider and multiple vehicle displays (www.visitguernsey.com/event/ motorsport-seafront-sunday)

August 15–16 The West Show

A two-day event, Guernsey’s annual agricultural and horticultural show encompasses animal and machinery displays, riding competitions and family fun (https://thewestshow.com)

September 13 Guernsey Air Display

Honouring those who served in the Royal Air Force during the Second World War, this year’s display will be particularly poignant, given the RAF centenary. As well as military aircraft, both retired and modern, there will also be a performance from the Red Arrows (www.guernseyairdisplay.com)

September 15 to October 30 Autumn Walking Festival

Catch the last of the sun’s rays with a guided walk through some of Guernsey’s most beautiful landscapes. There’s something to suit everyone, from a sunset stroll to a cultural town turn (www.visitguernsey.com/event/ autumn-walking-festival)

October 1 to November 11 Tennerfest

An island institution, every year, residents and visitors make the most of fixed-price meals in more than 170 restaurants across the Channel Islands (around 70 in Guernsey). From £10, it’s a chance to sample some of Guernsey’s finest food (www.tennerfest.com)

May 2–4, 2019 Guernsey Literary Festival

A series of workshops, discussions and displays, the festival also attracts a roster of first-rate speakers every year. Previous attendees include Sebastian Faulks and Clare Balding (www.guernseyliteraryfestival.com)

May 9, 2019 Liberation Day

A celebration of freedom, marking the end of German occupation during the Second World War. Church services are followed by military street parades, fireworks and other events (www. guernseyliberationday.com)