Alderney is the third largest of the Channel Islands and the closest to both France and the UK. It is 3 miles long and 1.5 miles wide and has a population of around 2400. The west coast of the island is rocky and rugged, with high cliffs and spectacular views whilst the east coast is gentler, with numerous sandy beaches. The island also has many coastal forts all around it's coast many of which can be explored.