Alderney is, at 3 square miles, the third largest of the Channel Islands. The Island, part of the Bailiwick of Guernsey, is the most northerly and situated 60 miles from the South Coast of England. Some say it is really the only true Channel Island since it is the only one that actually lies within the English Channel – the other islands are found in the Bay of St Malo. The island enjoys a mild climate which is usually warmer than in the British Isles but a degree or two cooler than Guernsey and Jersey.
Like the other Channel Islands it has sheer cliffs broken by sandy beaches. Alderney has few trees as many were cut down to fuel the lighthouses needed to warn sailors of the many rocks that surround it and which have caused many wrecks. However, some of the bigger rocks are home to colonies of gannets and puffins which delight locals and visitors alike.
There are approximately 1900 inhabitants on Alderney, a figure that almost doubles during Alderney Week, reportedly the Channel Islands’ biggest annual carnival and community festival. The island has a unique and intimate quality of life and the community enjoys an enviable laid back lifestyle. With crime practically non-existent Alderney has much to offer the potential resident.