Only in Alderney: five unique summer experiences
Summer, but not as you know it
Some places are all about ticking off the sights. Alderney is different.
Summer in Alderney brings together the experiences that give our island its unique character. Ride the Channel Islands’ only railway, take a boat trip to one of the British Isles’ largest gannet colonies, spot our famous blonde hedgehogs or spend time on a beach that feels like your own.
Add welcoming community festivals, spectacular coastal scenery and a slower pace of life, and it's easy to see why so many visitors return year after year.
Here are five experiences that make summer in Alderney truly unique.
Alderney Week Carnival
1. Be part of an island celebration
Summer is festival season in Alderney offering the perfect opportunity to experience the island's unique events and join in the celebrations.
The most renowned is Alderney Week, a much-loved island tradition that transforms St Anne and the harbour with colourful parades, live entertainment, family activities and wonderfully quirky events.
The week reaches its spectacular finale with the famous Torchlight Procession, lighting up the streets in a celebration that brings the whole community together.
Music lovers should also look out for the Alderney Chamber Music Festival, returning in 2026 with five days of performances by some of the world's finest young classical musicians. Concerts take place in beautiful venues across the island, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
If you prefer your music with a rocky, festival vibe, Riduna Fest offers two days of live performances in a relaxed, family friendly setting, bringing together local favourites and touring artists for one of the highlights of the summer calendar.
Unlike larger festivals, Alderney's events feel wonderfully personal. Visitors quickly become part of the celebrations, whether you're chatting with locals after a parade or enjoying live music as the sun sets over the island.
Blonde hedgehog spotted on an evening tour
2. Search for the blonde hedgehog
Among Alderney’s most unusual residents is the famous, and naturally reclusive, blonde hedgehog.
These distinctive pale hedgehogs are found almost nowhere else on Earth, so spotting one is a memorable experience. The best time to look is as evening falls, when the island becomes quieter and wildlife begins to emerge.
Join a guided wildlife walk and you may also encounter bats darting through the twilight or hear seabirds settling along the cliffs for the night.
Later, it’s time to look up. With very little light pollution, Alderney's dark skies provide excellent stargazing. On a clear summer evening, the Milky Way stretches across the sky, creating the perfect end to a day exploring the island.
Alderney railway arriving at the Mannez Lighthouse
3. Ride the Channel Islands' only railway
One of Alderney's most charming attractions is also one of its most unique.
The Alderney Railway is the only working railway in the Channel Islands, carrying passengers between Braye Harbour and Mannez Lighthouse along a scenic stretch of coastline.
The journey is made even more special by the vintage London Underground carriages, offering a fascinating glimpse into railway history while enjoying spectacular sea views.
Whether you're travelling with children, grandchildren or are simply young at heart, it's an experience guaranteed to raise a smile.
The railway usually runs every Saturday from May until the end of September. Check the Alderney Railway website for the latest times, additional running dates and charter options.
Wildlife boat tour to Les Étacs
4. Watch thousands of gannets at Les Étacs
Just off Alderney's dramatic west coast lies one of the island's greatest natural spectacles.
Les Étacs and neighbouring Ortac are home to one of the largest northern gannet colonies in the British Isles. During the summer months, thousands of these remarkable seabirds nest on the towering rocks, filling the air with constant movement and sound.
The best way to experience the colony is by boat. Seeing wave after wave of white birds circling above the cliffs before diving effortlessly into the sea is something that stays with visitors long after they've returned home.
Alternatively, if you prefer to stay on dry land, the headland on the south west of the island offers a panoramic view of the whole scene. It is easy to reach by taxi, bike or as part of one of Alderney’s walking routes, and the viewpoint is well signposted.
It’s one of those unforgettable wildlife encounters that reminds you just how special the natural world really is.
Families enjoying the view from Corblets beach on the north coast
5. Find a beach all to yourself
Going to the beach in summer doesn't have to mean searching for space.
Alderney's coastline is dotted with beautiful sandy bays, quiet coves and hidden corners where it's easy to enjoy a peaceful afternoon by the sea.
Spend the morning at Braye Beach, wander across to Saye Bay or explore the island's string of beautiful sandy bays. Even during the height of summer, there's often plenty of room to spread out, listen to the waves and relax.
Whether you're swimming, reading a book or enjoying a picnic with a sea view, Alderney's beaches allow you to do something many destinations no longer can: switch off completely.
Discover a different kind of summer
From community festivals and historic railways to rare wildlife and peaceful beaches, Alderney offers experiences that are difficult to find anywhere else.
Whether you're travelling from the UK, our fellow Channel Islands or beyond, getting here has never been easier by air or sea.
This summer, discover what makes Alderney different, and why so many visitors are already planning their next trip before they leave.