The pretty island not part of the UK just voted ‘best’ among British Isles

Polling as the top land mass in the British Isles is no easy feat, with over 6,000 islands clustered around Britain, each boasting its own unique scenery and attractions.

One pretty spot which technically lies outside the UK has nabbed the top spot in the Readers’ Choice Awards 2024 by Conde Nast Traveller, however, making it the perfect staycation spot to make a beeline for in a 2025 break.

Voters awarded the top medal to “crown dependency” Jersey, a self-governing island known for its hybrid British and French culture, beautiful beaches and walking trails and historic architecture.

The largest of the Channel Islands, it lies in northwest Europe between England and France and is bucking the trend of tourists choosing cheap flights abroad over holidays on their doorstep – with a 17% increase in visitors between January and May.

It received a decisive score of 95.29 out of 100 by Conde Nast readers, followed by the Isles of Scilly and the Isle of Wight, both of which also achieved scores above 90.

While readers weren’t asked to justify their choices, it’s likely Jersey emerged on top because of its dose of close-to-home multiculturalism, thriving food and drink scene and rich history.

The island is also easily accessible from UK cities including London, which is just a 40-minute flight away – and keeps visitors close to the beach at all times, with the rock’s nine-by-five-mile radius meaning they’re never more than 10 minutes from the coastline.

Tourists can enjoy tours of the imposing Elizabeth Castle, including an authentic historical reenactment making use of the monument’s cannon and musket reinforcements, nestled in St Aubin’s Bay.

Jersey also boasts some of the oldest buildings in the world – including a cave called La Cotte, which was found to contain remnants of Neanderthal life, and a perceived Neolithic tomb in the small parish of Grouville.

Perhaps its most recognisable claim to fame is the island’s world-famous Jersey cow herds, with 30 local dairies in operation as part of an industry that dates back 250 years.

Its agricultural prowess isn’t contained to milk, cheese and cream, however – with Jersey farms offering Campaign and oyster tours and vineyards including La Mare Wine Estate producing homegrown tipples perfect for gifts or souvenirs.

The island also boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant, Bohemia, at the Club Hotel in St Helier, led by Masterchef quarter-finalist Callum Graham.