Published On:Sunday, July 8, 2012
Posted by abg man
Visit Hamptonne This Summer
Share The Knowledge
One of the best things to do when on holiday in the Channel Islands is to learn about Jersey's history - and it is certainly fascinating. From the Neolithic La Hougue Bie to the War Tunnel, there is much here to explore and give you a glimpse of the past.
However, one attraction that is certainly worth checking out if you're a fan of all things yesteryear is Hamptonne Country Life Museum. This is a place where history comes alive, making it a great venue for a daytrip the whole family will enjoy.
Hamptonne House
This historic property has been extended and altered over the years, but today it is a painstaking rendition of how it would have appeared during its heyday in the 1640s. So beautiful is the old house that it is even available for hire and is a popular wedding venue, as guests can sit down and soak up the history while dining on a Jacobean banquet in front of an open fire.
Looking round, you will be greeted by exposed beams and large fireplaces. This is one of the oldest pieces of architecture on the whole island and a great place to see a blend of British and French building styles from the period.
Ancient properties
Part of the draw of visiting Hamptonne is that there is not only one but several houses and outbuildings on the site, all dating from different centuries. As a result, walking among them feels like taking a trip back in time.
Langlois House has small windows and a thatched roof, just like many dating from the homes of the medieval period in Brittany. This is a place where humans and animals would have lived under one roof, with livestock sheltering on the ground floor and the family who owned them living on the first floor.
Syvret House is the most recent addition to the collection and was built in the 1830s. Unlike the small and cosy spaces of the other properties, the ceilings here are high.
Meet the locals
Of course, ambling around pieces of old architecture is a great way to spend the day if you're a history buff, but there is plenty at Hamptonne Country Life Museum to occupy any members of your family who have different interests.
During the summer, characters from Jersey's past are on hand to tell you more about what life was like on the island in years gone by. The Goodwyf will love filling you in on all the gossip from St Lawrence, while she will also teach you about the local traditions and customs.
In addition, you will be able to watch a blacksmith at work and see the ironworking methods he and others in his profession have used for generations.
Visit the farm
Arguably the high point of your kids' time at Hamptonne will be meeting the farm's resident pigs and - during the summer - their piglets. These cute critters make for memorable photo opportunities and your little ones are bound to fall in love with them.
Be sure to visit Hamptonne between early June and September if you wish to take advantage of the Living History events and activities put on by the site. Meanwhile, if your visit coincides with October 20th and 21st, be certain to check out the Fais'sie d'Cidre at Hamptonne, where you can sample plenty of cider and enjoy a host of other attractions.
Jersey.com can help you learn about Jersey's history by telling you the best heritage sites to visit.
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