St Aubin: Harbour, History and the Railway Walk

St Aubin combines harbour views with traces of its maritime history. Boats and water shape the view in the harbour district; historic buildings along the streets tell the story of the trade that helped shape the town. The Railway Walk also leads into the past: it follows a former railway line from St Aubin to La Corbière. If you’re looking for a holiday apartment, consider St Aubin if the harbour and local history are important to your Jersey holiday.

Harbour and Trading History

The first pier in St Aubin was built in 1675. A row of merchants’ houses followed, with large cellars where imported goods were stored. The harbour’s built heritage makes it more than a backdrop for views of the water: it also offers a way to trace the former importance of trade in the townscape.

The cobbled High Street offers another way to explore this history. Many of its historic buildings are linked to the profits of the cod trade. A walk along the street brings you face to face with a chapter in the town’s history, extending from the harbour buildings to the commercial world of the past. St Magloire was once home to Charles Robin, a leading merchant in the Newfoundland cod trade. The name links St Aubin to a trading history that reaches far beyond the immediate harbour.

The use of buildings also tells a story of change and continuity: Jacksons Yacht Services is housed in a sail loft dating from the late 18th century, which still serves its original purpose. Here, a historic type of building is paired with a use that continues to this day.

Fort and Railway Walk

St Aubin’s Fort reflects the town’s defensive history. Its development began in the 16th century with a defensive tower intended to protect the island from a possible invasion. In the 17th century, during the English Civil War, the tower was repaired and surrounded by gun emplacements. As a fort, it was intended to protect ships in St Aubin’s harbour. Access is stated to be at low tide; plan your visit around the tide and check the times beforehand.

The Railway Walk follows the former railway line from St Aubin to La Corbière for over four miles. Railway relics can be found along the route; the line was last used during the occupation. The walk thus combines a longer route with a specific historical theme. The Railway Walk is described as being more suitable for electric wheelchairs and pushchairs. Take this limitation into account when planning your visit.

Choosing St Aubin as a Holiday Destination

Which side of St Aubin interests you most can help you choose where to stay: the harbour district is known for views of boats and water, while the High Street, merchants’ houses and fort reveal other aspects of its history. The Railway Walk offers a more active option and follows the former railway line as far as La Corbière. These differences can help you decide how to spend your holiday, without limiting your stay to just one type of experience.

If you’re looking for a holiday apartment in St Aubin, it’s worth first considering whether you’d most like to explore the town through its harbour, historic buildings or the Railway Walk. These themes offer different perspectives on St Aubin, from trade and seafaring to railway relics and coastal defence.

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