Lihou is a beautiful and tranquil haven reached by a tidal causeway. The opening times for the causeway during during the year are available from this page. Lihou is the most westerly point in the Channel Islands and is owned and managed by the States of Guernsey. The island is an important nature conservation area with an abundance of bird and marine life. Lihou House is managed by a charitable trust and can be booked for schools and youth groups.
Visiting the Island
- Lihou is linked to Guernsey at low tide by an ancient stone causeway from L'Erée headland. The causeway isn't open every day and visitors to Guernsey may want to check the opening times ahead of their trip. Opening times for the causeway can be downloaded from this page and are also posted at either end of the causeway, published in the Guernsey Press and announced by BBC Radio Guernsey daily. The height of the tide may vary due to atmospheric pressure and other weather conditions, so it's recommended that you leave the island at least 20 minutes before the causeway is due to close.
- The causeway is 760m long and will be wet in places - sturdy footwear is recommended. Those with mobility issues may find it difficult to cross. To find out more about the accessibility, please see the 'Accessibility to Lihou' document on this page.
Important information - please read prior to crossing the causeway
- The causeway opening times can vary by up to 20 minutes due to weather conditions
- Allow at least 20 minutes to cross the causeway.
- Do not cross the causeway if submerged at any point (dangerous currents).
- Only cross during the times shown below. Do not cross the causeway at night.
The Natural Environment
- Lihou covers 38 acres and forms part of Guernsey's west coast Ramsar site, an international recognition of its importance as a wetland habitat. Visitors are welcome to Lihou at any time but during the bird breeding season (1st January to 31st July) some paths may be roped so that people can quietly enjoy seeing Gulls nesting close by. The causeway has a wide range of plants and marine life - your walk to Lihou may take a little longer than you planned as you explore the rock pools.
- Dogs aren't permitted on Lihou or the causeway in order to protect wildlife, particularly birds. People using small boats, kayaks and canoes are requested not to land at Lihou when the causeway is closed to allow the wildlife to live in peace without human disturbance.
What else can I see?
- The remains of the Priory of St Mary date back to the 12th century. The ruined priory is thought to be the largest religious relic in the Bailiwick.
Staying on Lihou
- The Lihou Charitable Trust ensures that the house remains as a facility open to all school and youth groups. Family and other groups may be able to stay there if dates are available. For more information on Lihou House go to www.lihouisland.com or contact the Lihou House Warden info@lihouisland.com.
