The special activity days, which are sponsored by law firm Mourant, are aimed at children up to the age of 10 years old and will take place at different heritage sites throughout the year. The events range from exploring Jersey’s beaches to learning about farm animals and trees, all through storytelling, arts and crafts, trails and dressing up.

Although participating in ‘Discovery Days’ was free in previous years, usual site entry fees were charged for anyone who was not a Jersey Heritage Member. The sponsorship by Mourant this year means that anyone can attend for free.

Carmella Knight, Events Curator, said: “One of our principle aims at Jersey Heritage is to provide access to the Island’s history to the whole community. Being able to offer this year’s ‘Discovery Days’ completely free of charge means that families can have fun exploring aspects of Jersey’s incredible story, whether they are regulars at our visitor sites or have never been before.

“There will be something for everyone to enjoy at the ‘Discovery Days’. We try to make the events as inclusive as possible by offering a host of activities suitable for different abilities, encouraging children to have a go and try different ways of learning, either on their own or alongside a helpful adult. We’re kicking off the series with ‘Discover Life Under the Sea’ at the Maritime Museum on Saturday, 23 March, with interactive storytelling, hands-on crafts, sensory activities and a fishy trail!”

In addition to the ‘Discovery Days’ being free of charge, participants will receive a free badge tied into the theme of the event, with a different badge available at each event for children to collect.

Daniel Birtwistle, Mourant’s Managing Partner in Jersey, said: “We’re delighted to announce that Mourant is sponsoring the 2024 Jersey Heritage Discovery Days, and with our support Jersey Heritage is able to offer these events entirely free for the first time. Inclusion is a key business and people priority for us at Mourant, and the Discovery Days reflect this; along with free entry for all, there will be a wide range of activities available to encourage Islanders and visitors of different abilities to participate in the learning and fun. Thank you to Jersey Heritage for spearheading this initiative, and I have no doubt the Discovery Days will be a wonderful addition to the Island this year.”

Discover Life Under the Sea

Saturday, 23 March 10am-4pm

Maritime Museum

Find out about habitats and creatures that live under the sea and why it’s so important to look after our oceans for future generations. Search the Maritime Museum for hidden fish that live in Jersey waters and dress up as your favourite sea creature. Be captivated by our storyteller’s fishy tales and enjoy creating some maritime crafts!

Discover Beaches

Sunday, 9 June 1pm-5pm

Les Laveurs, St Ouen’s Bay

Come to St Ouen’s Bay for our Aspiring Jersey Island Geopark Discovery Day! Join us for a fun-packed afternoon, full of activities. Find out how Jersey’s landscape and seascape changes with the ebb and flow of the tide. Join in with a rock pool s’traû (‘stroll’ in Jèrriais) and discover the Island’s fascinating geology through a Deep Time Walk, led by our Geopark Guide. Explore the majestic sweep of the Bay and meet our guides at Lewis Tower to find out more about this historic coastal landmark. Join in with pebble crafts, sand art and a community beach clean then have a go at building the longest sandcastle!

Discover All the Fun of the Farm

Saturday, 7 September 10am-4pm

Hamptonne

Join us for a fun-packed farm day, full of crafts and activities. Learn about the history of Jersey farming and follow the trail through the orchard. Hamptonne is home to calves, pigs, sheep, chickens and rabbits. Come and meet the animals and learn all about them! Have a go at making some farmyard-inspired crafts and relax in the meadow, listening to our storyteller reading farmyard tales

Discover Terrific Trees

Saturday, 9 November 10am-2pm

Location to be announced

Come and celebrate Jersey’s woodlands at our Aspiring Jersey Island Geopark Discovery Day! Learn about the importance of tree planting. Love your woods. Get stuck into FREE craft activities. Can you tell the difference between a Lime and a Beech or an Oak and a Sycamore? Find out how leaf shapes and bark patterns can help us to identify different species and learn how to measure the height of a tree with just a pencil! Go wild with creative play, as you follow the Discovery trail and recharge in nature.

Discover Crafty Christmas

Saturday, 7 December 10am-4pm

Jersey Museum, Art Gallery & Victorian House

Come and make fantastic cards, decorations and gifts for the holidays. Follow the festive trail around the Victorian House and get into the spirit of Christmas, with joyous carols and a fun family movie.