Episode #41
Jersey: Castles, Giant Tides and Island Life with Malcolm Lewis
Jersey may sit just a short flight from Britain, but this tiny Channel Island has its own government, its own traditions and a character shaped by Norman history, wartime occupation and some of the largest tides in the world. Daniel is joined by Malcolm Lewis, owner of Longueville Manor, to unlock an island of medieval castles, sweeping beaches, exceptional seafood and wonderfully unexpected local customs. Malcolm explains why Jersey is a Crown Dependency rather than part of the United Kingdom, how its twelve parishes help govern island life, and why the monarch is still affectionately toasted as the Duke of Normandy. They explore the castles and fortifications scattered across Jersey, from Mont Orgueil and Elizabeth Castle to the bunkers left by the German Occupation. Malcolm reflects on the hardship islanders endured between 1940 and 1945, and why Liberation Day on 9 May remains Jersey’s most important annual celebration. The conversation also turns to Longueville Manor, the historic country house hotel Malcolm’s grandparents rescued from disrepair and opened in 1949. He shares the remarkable story of how a family dream became one of Jersey’s best-known hotels, complete with woodland walks, a Victorian kitchen garden, local wildlife and honey produced on the estate. Food is never far away. Discover why Jersey’s enormous tidal range produces outstanding lobster, crab, oysters and hand-dived scallops, what makes Jersey milk so famously rich, and why early May is the perfect time to enjoy Jersey Royals. Malcolm also reveals: His essential Jersey experience The island’s best season for a visit Why St Ouen’s Bay is ideal for surfing The restaurant mistake first-time visitors should avoid How to explore Jersey’s 15mph Green Lanes The detective series to watch before travelling The traditional Jersey souvenir made from a cabbage stalk From Gerald Durrell’s pioneering conservation work at Jersey Zoo to afternoon tea with homemade jam and Jersey cream, this is your expert introduction to an island that feels reassuringly familiar while remaining entirely itself. About Malcolm Lewis Malcolm Lewis is the owner of Longueville Manor in St Saviour, Jersey. The hotel has been owned and managed by the Lewis family since 1949 and is known for its personal hospitality, historic setting, gardens and close relationship with Jersey’s local producers. Useful links Longueville Manor: https://www.longuevillemanor.com/ Visit Jersey: https://www.jersey.com/ Jersey Zoo and Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust: https://www.durrell.org/ Destination Unlocked: https://destinationunlocked.com/
