Alderney is a vibrant, very friendly and innovative community, one offering a range of unique professional opportunities and fresh challenges against the backdrop of an unrivalled quality of life.
For generations, people from around the world have made this island their home. Folk starting new jobs, seeking a change in lifestyle or just wanting to get closer to nature have all found their calling here.
New arrivals quickly settle into the Alderney pace of life. Things move a little slower here with a gentle flow to match the sea sliding ashore around the island. It doesn’t mean we stand still – far from it – but the rhythms of island life are different to what you’d experience on the UK mainland.
It could be our incredible natural environment that keeps us grounded. Unemployment is low and opportunities are plentiful, with established sectors including finance, tourism, food and drink and construction all in good health.
Our main shopping area, Victoria Street, in the island’s town St Anne, is a charming cobbled street with a traditional feel and not a chain store in sight. It’s like stepping back in time. Many shops still enjoy a ‘lunch hour’ and also have a traditional half-day closing on a Wednesday!
There is a fantastic range of independent local shops, offering everything from food and fashion to fishing gear, hardware and electricals.
This is a creative community too. Local designers and makers drawing on the island for inspiration. Jewellery, knitwear and pottery to name a few . And Alderney has always been a haven for artists, musicians and writers, with a wide-ranging events calendar featuring festivals, performances, concerts and gigs offering something for everyone.
Unlike the UK you will find everyone says hello and immediately greets you like an islander. There's a real sense of community here, and people make sure local groups, services, clubs and societies are vibrant and open to all. Doing your bit and volunteering is a way of life in Alderney, and it helps keep us together.