Jersey is an island in the English Channel and lies around 12 nautical miles from France and 87 nautical miles off the south coast of Great Britain. It is the largest of the Channel Islands and lies at their most southerly point. Consequently the climate is temperate and winter temperatures rarely fall below 9 degrees centigrade.

Jersey experiences mild winters and mild to warm summers. The climate is roughly the same as the south coast of England with an average temperature annually of just over 11 degrees centigrade (or 52 degrees Fahrenheit). Each year there are just short of 2,000 hours of sunshine which is the highest anywhere in the British Isles.

The mild climate makes Jersey an attractive place to visit at almost any time of the year although between the months of May and September the climate is at its most favourable. The hottest weather occurs in July and August when temperatures can often exceed 25 degrees centigrade. This time of year is high season in Jersey when tourists arrive to head to the sandy beaches which are among some of the island's greatest assets. There are occasional days on which the temperature is positively tropical and you can feel as if you are on a tropical south sea island.

In summer months the sandy beaches lure the tourists. However, wonderful walks can be taken on the island's beaches whatever the time of year. At low tide some spectacular walks are possible because Jersey experiences some of the largest tide differentials in the world. This means that many beaches are left exposed at low tide with the resultant fascinating landscapes that the water leaves behind. With the right outdoor clothing, much fun can be had whatever the weather. In Autumn Jersey hosts the Cider Festival and various Halloween celebrations to frighten young and old alike! Visitors at this time of year may also want to take in the natural sights of the island with the leaves now turning a golden brown.

Winter, in spite of the colder weather, can be a good time to take a break in Jersey. This is the time when the hotels put on special offers and there are bargains to be snapped up. Bring some warm clothing and prepare yourself for some relaxing walks and some good hearty food served up in one of Jersey's many restaurants, pubs or hotels. This is a great time of year for birdwatchers. Without leaves on the trees, birds are more easily spotted and the island is home to many passing migratory birds.

Whatever the weather, there is no shortage of entertainment and attractions on the island. This has made the island a very popular year-round holiday destination. Jersey can be approached by air from various UK airports and this is the advisable winter route. However, in summer ferries depart from various south coast destinations such as Poole and Weymouth and this can be an inexpensive and enjoyable way in which to reach the island.

St Helier, the capital, is an excellent place to visit throughout the year and there are many indoor activities so whatever the weather you will not be disappointed. There is a fabulous leisure centre situated high on the cliffs called Fort Regent. The centre was a Napoleonic fort and dates from around 1806. You will also find some 20 acres of walks and panoramic views of Jersey's coastline. The centre provides entertainment for all the family so on wet or dry days there should be something for everyone.

However, if the weather is not so good, a visit to the pottery can be a good idea. Jersey Pottery is world-renowned and is situated in Gorey Village, Grouville. You can watch the potters at work and even try your hand at 'throwing' a pot yourself. Jersey Zoo is known throughout the world for its pioneering work in saving species from extinction. Whilst you will not find larger species, a fascinating day can be had in seeing the many animals there and finding out about the work of the zoo. Weather need not be a problem when visiting the zoo as many of the exhibits are indoors.

Whatever the weather, there are still many activities to be enjoyed out of doors on Jersey: sea kayaking, coaststeering, abseiling, golfing, fishing and rock climbing are all sports whose participants are not put off by bad weather. Subject to weather conditions, you can even hire a privately skippered yacht and cruise the local waters.

Forget the weather when you come to Jersey. It is fairly predictable unlike other parts of Great Britain and you will never be short of something to see and do.