Liberation Day Closures to Disrupt Visitor Transport in Guernsey
Travel arrangements across Guernsey are set to change ahead of Liberation Day on 9 May, with key roads in St Peter Port scheduled for closure between 5 and 11 May. Local authorities have confirmed that infrastructure will be installed for commemorative events, including a major cavalcade on the day itself. Residents and tourists are being encouraged to use alternative transport such as walking, cycling, or buses to avoid disruption.
Several prominent routes will be closed completely or partially, including Crown Pier, North Beach, and the seafront stretch from the Weighbridge to the slaughterhouse roundabout. Access to The Albany and Salerie Corner will also be restricted. Additionally, the coast road from Longstore into town and The Grange will be off-limits on the afternoon of 9 May due to the parade. These closures could affect general mobility around the island.
These changes may lead to delays in reaching accommodations, ferry terminals, or key landmarks. With more than 350 vehicles taking part in the parade and rolling road closures planned, access by car will be limited in central areas. Visitors are advised to factor in possible hold-ups, particularly between 13:30 and 16:00 on 9 May, when traffic in and out of St Peter Port will be most affected.
To support access, free park and ride services will operate on 8 and 9 May, connecting Admiral Park and Waitrose to event zones. However, some services will pause during the parade. Public buses will run on a special Saturday timetable throughout the day. Travellers are advised to check transport timetables in advance, and those with connecting journeys should consider departing earlier or adjusting their travel plans.
Visitors new to Guernsey should plan ahead to avoid potential travel disruptions during the holiday season. Liberation Day attracts many visitors and requires extensive coordination to manage the associated logistics. Although the events commemorate a key chapter in the island’s past, they also bring about restrictions that could reduce travel flexibility and require visitors to plan more carefully.