See history come to life in Jersey

If you're keen to learn about Jersey's history, be certain to visit Hamptonne Country Life Museum. Every summer between early June and September, the site runs Living History, when characters are on hand to help teach you about the island's past.

This is a destination that will appeal to your whole family. From wandering around properties dating back hundreds of years to meeting the pigs and piglets that live here, you can be sure there will be something for both you and your kids to enjoy.

Read on to learn more.

Meet the piglets

The farm at Hamptonne is home to its own pigs and every year a new litter of piglets is born that it is impossible not to fall in love with. Your kids are certain to adore these cute, pink bundles of joy and you'll certainly want to have your camera at the ready so you can get a picture of the babies.

Enjoy the local cider

On October 20th and 21st this year, Fais'sie d'Cidre is taking place at Hamptonne. The festival is a celebration of Jersey's apple-growing heritage and provides the perfect opportunity to have a tipple or two and taste the local flavours. However, this is an event the whole family can enjoy as there will also be games, crafts and music.

You will be able to catch a Morris dancing display, watch the competition for the longest apple peel and even see plate spinning while you're here, as well as try some of the tasty local food.

Living History

During the high season - from the start of June to the beginning of September - Hamptonne's past is brought to life by Living History. During this time, characters are on hand to help you learn more about what it was like to live in Jersey centuries ago.

The resident Goodwyf always has the latest gossip from the parish of St Lawrence and will fill you in on the history of local customs. Not only that, but you will also be able to watch her make crafts, which could inspire you to have a go back home.

In addition, you can stop by the blacksmith's stall, where you can watch him at work employing the iron mongering techniques that have been used by his profession for hundreds of years.

Admire the architecture

Hamptonne is particularly worth visiting as it boasts three houses and several outbuildings, all from different periods.

Langlois House is just like an old medieval farm building you might find in Brittany, as the two architectural styles are incredibly similar. Long ago, the livestock would have lived on the lower floor, while the family would have slept upstairs - you can try and imagine the smell and noise as you walk around!

Hamptonne House has been restored to reflect how it would have looked in the 1640s and boasts large open fireplaces and exposed beams. It is little wonder it is a popular venue to hire for events, as people can tuck into a traditional Jacobean banquet here while toasting themselves in front of the open fire.

Syvret House is the most recent addition to the site and was built in the 1830s. As a result, it is more ornate than the others and has tall ceilings. There are also numerous outbuildings that have been in use for decades.