Discover Millenium 2027 - The European Year of the Normans - on Alderney

The Year of the Normans

Discover 1,000 years of shared history, culture and connection

In 2027, Alderney joins communities across Europe to celebrate the Year of the Normans, marking 1,000 years since the birth of William the Conqueror.

Across Europe, events will mark the occasion, while here in the Channel Islands we’ll be celebrating the historical and cultural links that unite us with Normandy.

The Islands are geographically closer to Normandy than the UK and formed part of the Duchy of Normandy until 1204. That connection continues today, with the King as our Head of State as successor to the Duke of Normandy.

Alderney’s Norman story

Just eight miles from the coast of Normandy, Alderney sits at the heart of this shared history. Traces of our Norman past can still be found across the island — from Longis Bay and place names such as Le Bourgage, to our legal traditions and heritage sites such as the Watermill.

Throughout 2027, Alderney will bring this story to life through a year-round programme of events, heritage, culture and experiences.

Highlights will include the Alderney Bayeux Tapestry Finale and a Norman Island Trail, while existing festivals will embrace a Norman theme alongside music, theatre, exhibitions and projects led by island organisations and charities.

Come and discover Alderney’s Norman story — 1,000 years in the making.

Explore the 2027 programme →